Swedish Massage
This is a system of classical massage movements developed by Per Hendrik Ling in the late 18th/early 19th Century. Ling, who was a physiologist and fencing master, was from Sweden. His therapeutic method, known as the Ling System, was recognised by the Swedish government in his lifetime giving rise to the term 'Swedish Massage'. The massage strokes he developed still form the basis of almost all massage techniques used today. The treatment involves a combination of sweeping , light 'Effleurage', kneading or rubbing 'Petrissage' and invigorating stimulating 'Percussion' movements. The therapy also includes the use of 'Friction' 'Vibration' and 'Passive' movement to benefit all the body systems, ease muscle tension and aid relaxation.
Holistic Massage
Utilising the Swedish Massage techniques developed by physiologist Per Hendrik Ling (see Swedish Massage above), Holistic Massage takes the therapy a step further by tailoring the treatment to the needs of the whole person. Account is taken of the physical, psychological, environmental and nutritional state of the client and a treatment (invigorating or relaxing) is designed to suit that state. Holistic Massage can benefit all the systems of the body and may be particularly useful in addressing the muscle tension and general stress caused by over-work and a hectic life-style.
Sports Massage
Swedish massage is the starting point for this therapy which employs additional advanced techniques in the treatment and prevention of sports injuries. Used primarily by sports men and women, it is a treatment which is also beneficial to those wishing to prevent or treat work-related injuries such as those brought on by long desk bound periods. Sports massage is recommended for the prevention of injuries by way of pre-event, warm-up massage and regular conditioning massages which focus on those areas most used by the athlete. Post- event massages are also beneficial for ridding the body of painful waste build-up such as lactic acid and facilitating relaxation and efficient recovery. Corrective massage is used to treat specific muscles which are, have been or are likely to be damaged. It is also useful in cases of DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) where it can sooth sore muscles and relax tense ones.
Deep Tissue
This is a form of massage that targets and works on the deeper lying muscle tissues of the body. Accumulated toxic waste in the system hampers essential nourishment of the body's cells and can contribute to muscular spasm (muscle fibres contracting for longer than usual). By working deep into the contracted areas using slow strokes and deep finger pressure, Deep Tissue massage can loosen the muscle tissue, releasing the toxins and allowing blood, oxygen and nutrients to circulate properly again. This type of massage can eliminate spasm in muscles and nerves and help alleviate chronic pain - but be warned it is not a treatment for the faint-hearted!
Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Developed in Europe in the 1930s by husband and wife team Dr Emil and Estrid Vodder, Lymphatic Drainage Massage is a collection of techniques designed to assist in the effective functioning of the lymphatic system. Performed without oil, the movements are light, delicate and repetitive and specially devised to move the skin in such a way that it speeds up the elimination of waste and boosts the immune system. This type of treatment is often recommended to assist with conditions such as fluid retention and cellulite. It can help ease congestion and puffing around the eyes. The repetitive movements also induce relaxation while the stimulation of the lymphatic system can relieve tiredness.
Hot Stone Therapy
Derived from ancient traditions practised in India, Africa, China and amongst Native Americans, Hot Stone Massage was introduced into the United States by therapist Mary Nelson in the 1980s. The therapy involves heating specially chosen, smooth stones (usually basalt harvested from riverbeds) and using these, in combination with oil, to massage the client. The oil allows the stones to glide gently over the skin while the heat penetrates the muscles allowing them to lengthen and unknot. An overall feeling of warmth and relaxation is experienced.
Where and When
Daire currently offers all these treatments to members and non-members of the King's Club, Woodhayes Road, Wimbledon Common, SW19 4TT www.sportkings.org. Treatments are offered at the club on Monday from 9.30am - 5.30pm and on Fridays from 11am - 7pm. Appoints on other evenings or weekends or in the privacy of your own home are by special arrangement only.
Consultation
Please note that all new clients are asked to fill out a consultation form before their first treatment. To save time on the day you may like to download the form, print it out, fill it in and bring it with you to your appointment.
Booking
Daire Brehan is currently on leave. To book a treatment at the King's Club or to enquire about a home visit please email Clare Pausers at : pausers@hotmail.com or phone her on 0792 605 6905.