THERAPY TYPES

Holistic Massage

The term 'holistic' is derived from the Greek holos, meaning whole. Holistic massage is a practice in which massage therapy is tailored to an individual, for their specific needs, in order to enhance health and wellbeing.

 

Holistic massage is a nurturing process of touch and response. Treatments are adapted to each client’s unique needs and physical characteristics. Essentially we work with the client, as distinct from giving a massage to the client.

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Skillful practice of holistic massage involves understanding of the body’s structure, function and malfunction, as well as broader factors such as emotional state, posture, diet, and so on.

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At Elfi’s retreat we understand that all of our clients are different. We consult with our clients and develop tailored treatment processes designed to bring them towards a state of balance. This might involve relaxing massage for those stressful days, deep tissue massage to remove systematic tension, and detailed feedback for the client to help enhance the benefits of the massage. For example, we may recommend simple breathing or postural exercises to promote relaxation, alongside the treatment.

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Pregnancy Massage

In many ways, a pregnancy massage is similar to a holistic massage. However, the techniques used during a pregnancy massage are adapted to suit the changes a woman's body goes through when she is carrying a baby and ensure there is no harm to the mother or her fetus.

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Treatment is directed to specific areas of the body such as the lower back, circulatory and lymphatic systems to help ensure a healthy flow of blood to mother and baby, and enhance the effective removal of toxins and waste.

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Pregnancy massage is typically administered when lying on the side position, supported by cushions, so as to be more comfortable for mother and baby. Importantly, pregnancy massage can be administered during the second and third trimesters only (13+ weeks), due to higher risk of miscarriage in the earlier stages of pregnancy.

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Dry Cupping

Cupping involves the use of plastic or glass cups placed on the skin. The air inside the cup is sucked out to create a vacuum. The suction force draws fluid into the treated area, promoting better blood flow, and also assists with fascial release.

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Sports Massage

Sports massage is a form of massage involving the manipulation of soft tissue to benefit a person engaged in regular physical activity. It is proven to release and reduce tensions in muscles, improve circulation and encourage the removal of waste products such as lactic acid during high intensity activity and can help to relax the body.

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A sports massage  is usually focused on a specific area of the body to treat a specific concern, usually sports injuries , whereas a holistic massage is often administered across the whole body, or across large areas of the body to relieve muscular pain and tension.

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What sort of massage do I need?

For general relaxation or 'MOT' purposes, choose a holistic massage, with pressure dependent on personal preference. For those training in a specific sport looking to improve performance or assist recovery from injury, a custom designed sports massage program will be beneficial.

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