Benefits of Massage in Brighton

Massage in Brighton

As you lie on the table under crisp, fresh sheets, hushed music draws you into the moment. The smell of sage fills the air and you hear the gentle sound of massage oil being warmed in your therapist's hands. The pains of age, the throbbing from your overstressed muscles, the sheer need to be touched -- all cry out for therapeutic hands to start their work. Once the session gets underway, the problems of the world fade into an oblivious 60 minutes of relief and all you can comprehend right now is not wanting it to end.

But what if that hour of massage did more for you than just take the pressures of the day away? What if that gentle, Swedish massage helped you combat cancer? What if bodywork helped you recover from a strained hamstring in half the time? What if your sleep, digestion and mood all improved with massage and bodywork? What if these weren't just "what ifs"?

Evidence is showing that the more massage you can allow yourself, the better you'll feel. Here's why.

Massage as a healing tool has been around for thousands of years in many cultures. Touching is a natural human reaction to pain and stress, and for conveying compassion and support. Think of the last time you bumped your head or had a sore calf. What did you do? Rubbed it, right? The same was true of our earliest ancestors. Healers throughout time and throughout the world have instinctually and independently developed a wide range of therapeutic techniques using touch. Many are still in use today, and with good reason. We now have scientific proof of the benefits of massage - benefits ranging from treating chronic diseases and injuries to alleviating the growing tensions of our modern lifestyles. Having a massage does more than just relax your body and mind - there are specific physiological and psychological changes which occur, even more so when massage is utilized as a preventative, frequent therapy and not simply mere luxury. Massage not only feels good, but it can cure what ails you.


The Consequences of Stress

Experts estimate that 80 percent to 90 percent of disease is stress-related. Massage and bodywork is there to combat that frightening number by helping us remember what it means to relax. The physical changes massage brings to your body can have a positive effect in many areas of your life. Besides increasing relaxation and decreasing anxiety, massage lowers your blood pressure, increases circulation, improves recovery from injury, helps you to sleep better and can increase your concentration. It reduces fatigue and gives you more energy to handle stressful situations.

Massage is a perfect elixir for good health, but it can also provide an integration of body and mind. By producing a meditative state or heightened awareness of living in the present moment, massage can provide emotional and spiritual balance, bringing with it true relaxation and peace.

The incredible benefits of massage are doubly powerful if taken in regular "doses." Dr. Maria Hernandez-Reif, from the Touch Research Institute (TRI) at the University of Miami, is known for her massage research, along with colleague Tiffany Field. Together, they and other researchers have done outstanding work proving the value of massage. While their studies have shown we can benefit from massage even in small doses (15 minutes of chair massage or a half-hour table session), Hernandez-Reif says they know from their research that receiving bodywork 2-3 times a week is highly beneficial. And if we lived in a fantasy world, Hernandez-Reif has the answer. "I feel a daily massage is optimal."

It's undoubtedly a wonderful thing when your therapist begins unwinding those stress-tightened muscles, and your day's troubles begin to fade away. But it's the cherry on top to know this "medicine" only gets better with frequency.


What You Already Know: The Benefits of Massage

In an age of technical and, at times, impersonal medicine, massage offers a drug-free, non-invasive and humanistic approach based on the body's natural ability to heal itself. So what exactly are the benefits to receiving regular massage and/or bodywork treatments?

- Increases circulation, allowing the body to pump more oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs.

- Stimulates the flow of lymph, the body's natural defense system, against toxic invaders. For example, in breast cancer patients, massage has been shown to increase the cells that fight cancer.

- Increased circulation of blood and lymph systems improves the condition of the body's largest organ - the skin.

- Relaxes and softens injured and overused muscles

- Reduces spasms and cramping

- Increases joint flexibility.

- Reduces recovery time, helps prepare for strenuous workouts and eliminates subsequent pains of the athlete at any level.

- Releases endorphins - the body's natural painkiller - and is being used in chronic illness, injury and recovery from surgery to control and relieve pain.

- Reduces post-surgery adhesions and edema and can be used to reduce and realign scar tissue after healing has occurred.

- Improves range-of-motion and decreases discomfort for patients with low back pain.

- Relieves pain for migraine sufferers and decreases the need for medication.

- Provides exercise and stretching for atrophied muscles and reduces shortening of the muscles for those with restricted range of motion.

- Assists with shorter labor for expectant mothers, as well as less need for medication, less depression and anxiety, and shorter hospital stays.


Other Body Therapies

Alexander Technique - A movement re-education therapy that was created by a mid-19th century actor who tried to understand his own movement dysfunctions on stage. The emphasis is on observing and modifying improper movement patterns, thereby reducing physical stress on the body.

Craniosacral Therapy - A gentle method of manipulating the body's craniosacral system (consisting of thin membranes and cerebrospinal fluid which surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord) in an attempt to improve the function of the central nervous system, dissipate the negative effects of stress and enhance health and resistance to disease.

Reiki - A therapy based on universal life energy that serves to align chakras and bring healing energy to organs and glands. Utilizes visualization as practitioner acts as a channel for the life energy.

Rolfing - Used to reorder the major body segments, this technique utilizes physical manipulation and movement awareness to bring the body into vertical alignment. Treatments are offered in a 10-session series.

Shiatsu - A deep, finger-pressure technique using the traditional acupuncture points of Asian healing. Works to unblock energy flows and restore balance to meridians and organs.


The Need for Touch

As a society, we are touch deprived and this can lead to disease or emotional dysfunction. From the cradle to the nursing home, tactile stimulation and the emotional assurance of caring touch bring about a sense of well-being and security. In numerous studies conducted on massage for infants, TRI researchers have found improved weight gain and development in pre-term infants, improved weight gain and motor behavior in cocaine-exposed infants, and improved weight gain and decreased stress behavior in HIV-exposed infants. Full-term infants also benefit with increased alertness and social behavior, less crying and increased weight gain.

How do your clients choose their spa in Brighton?

When your clients make a decision about which spa in Brighton to frequent, they look for a place where they can enjoy some "me time", where they can relax and experience a sense of well being and somewhere where they can pamper their bodies as well as their minds. They already understand that spa establishments are the ultimate when it comes to boosting one's morale. But when faced with today's diverse range of establishments, all of which are offering effective and innovative treatments, choosing a spa isn't always an easy decision to make. Since most spas are offering services and products that deliver results, it has become even more important to focus on the small details that help to retain a loyal clientele. We've done a general survey to help you identify the details that make all the difference to a client who is trying out a new establishment.

A "safe" environment

The welcome and setting, which create the ambiance and determine the quality of an establishment, are definitely key priorities to potential clients. A lightly fragranced room, with filtered lighting and soft music create an atmosphere that is conducive to a sense of well being. And spa enthusiasts have high expectations when it comes to these criteria. Having tried out a spa that prioritised profitability over clients' comfort, May, now pays attention to the smallest detail: "It is absolutely imperative that a space dedicated to promoting well being is peaceful and neat, without being clinical. It should also reflect uncomplicated elegance. A gentle fragrance in the air is also an absolute must. These criteria, which are evident not only in the décor but also in the products, played a role in converting me into a loyal customer. Whilst receiving body treatments, I also pay close attention to the therapist, who should be impeccably well presented." It is clear that cleanliness, a "safe" environment and a sense of comfort enhance the treatments and reassure the client. It also indicates that it is unnecessary and ill advised to fork out lots of money on extravagant décor that is hard to keep clean, because clients find simple, clean, refined settings more reassuring. The trick is to know where to add a touch of glamour or mystery, which your clients will lap up!

Polished service

Next, issues relating to the quality of the spa service, punctuality and friendliness of the staff were identified. Marie from Strasbourg highlights the importance of these elements: "I like the cosy feeling of some of the smaller spas that still offer high-tech equipment, but I am very conscious of service levels. As someone who doesn't have a lot of time available for spa treatments, I cannot afford to be kept waiting." In reality, clients are bound by time constraints and keeping them waiting defeats the whole objective of going to a spa, which is to experience a sense of peace and well being. And if it so happen that one of your treatments takes a little longer than anticipated, the therapist could always offer the client who has been kept waiting a little something extra, as was the case with Véronique, who was offered a free make-up trial the following week when she was kept waiting half an hour for her treatment. This loyalty tool was interpreted, quite rightly, as a sign of respect. Another factor is the warmth of the welcome received by the client which indicates a genuine interest. Clients are unanimous on this point: a smile, a sign of recognition and a chat are all acts that are greatly appreciated, as long as they are performed with discretion and tact.

Another practical but fundamental detail is the ease with which the establishment can be accessed. In Strasbourg, Marie had found the spa of her dreams but… it was situated in a highly inaccessible location. A beautiful spa positioned along a pedestrianized street, or somewhere where you cannot park closer than 500m away, does not encourage an influx of clients. If the clientele in the area can be easily developed, in order to attract a larger public, it is more important to give careful consideration to the placement of your spa.

Finally, in addition to the welcome, flexibility with regards to your treatment schedule is also a great way to win over your clients. Being able to pop in at your local spa for a spot of pampering after a long working day is greatly appreciated… and seldom possible!

Impeccable cleanliness in your treatment rooms

Next, comes the impression created by your treatment rooms. With clients being more informed and therefore more demanding than ever before, no detail goes unnoticed! While most establishments keep their instruments sterilized and replace used items, there are those who choose to overlook the basic principles of hygiene. And on that score there is no shortage of examples. For example, there are many that continue to use a single terry towel… perfect for transferring germs from one client to the next! Mélanie also looks at "floor surfaces, instruments, towels, the covers upon which one lies during treatments… Once in one of the big establishments, I had the unpleasant experience of finding myself lying on a cover of dubious cleanliness." These days more and more clients prefer throw-away products (gloves, gauze, wax…) for guaranteed hygiene. In return for entrusting their bodies and faces to the care of a third party, they are looking for comfort and absolute cleanliness. That is why women like Catherine always choose "treatments that rely on single-use products".

Clients also value places that bear charming names. If, for example, you have more than one treatment room, it is a good idea to name each room. Simply by naming a room as a "cocoon" endears it and invites clients to feel safe and secure. Most clients are in agreement that the setting in which a treatment takes place is just as important as the quality of the treatment that is being administered. These may be subjective criteria but they are certainly of capital importance to clients when selecting a spa in Brighton.

Competitive prices

However, if clients choose their spa based on the image it projects, this is not without some consideration for the prices of the services offered. The relationship between quality and price is the second priority for clients. Having signs and certificates displayed within the salon helps to make the client feel secure in the therapists' credibility and know-how but the therapist must also give serious consideration to her pricing to ensure that her rates are affordable to a larger number of people. It is also her job to educate clients about the efficacy and safety of the products used during her treatments. She should also be in a position to explain the technologically advanced nature of the treatments as this is a means of justifying the prices to clients. Isabelle chose an establishment that was a bit more expensive than the average spa because she believed that the quality of the treatments and the efficacy of the products merited the costs. An excellent spa is obviously going to cost more but it should also meet the specific needs expressed by the client. Isabelle sees her trips to the spa as a "type of investment" and admits to being very satisfied with the results achieved by the high end products used during her treatments.

A spa service in the broad sense

Another area, where clients have certain expectations relates to the experience of the spa therapist. In addition to take care of the client and ensuring that she is comfortable, the therapist also needs to offer the client a service that is tailor made to suit her requirements. After diagnosing what the client's specific needs are, the therapist needs to administer a treatment that is not only of a high standard but one which also meets the needs of that client. Furthermore, she should confirm what the client's needs and expectations are at the start of each treatment. Finally, she should never put herself in the position where she is administering treatments that are beyond the scope of her capabilities or experience. In these instances, she should rather refer the client to a specialist. For example, Emma recounts: "I thought I had terribly oily skin and chose all the wrong products to care for my skin. It was, in fact, a hormonal problem and my spa therapist referred me to a medical specialist. Luckily this put me on the right track to getting my skin sorted out. The diagnosis was most welcome." Similarly, thanks to her spa therapist, Catherine has learned to understand the changes in her skin caused by factors like changing seasons, hormonal imbalances and ageing: "Her advice has been like gold because she has taught me how to care for the changing needs of my skin."

Next, comes the quality of the products and the services offered. Clients are particularly demanding in this area. Single usage ampoules and single application products are increasing in popularity. In those instances where a therapist does not use single application products, masks and creams must be stored in a cool, dry place. Véronique had the dreadful experience of having a mask, which had already gone off, applied to her face. Clients know that once a product has been opened, it loses its effectiveness after a few months. On the same note, it is also not advisable to prepare products for treatments in advance. Véronique also had the misfortune of experiencing this: "The treatment I received where I was not able to see the products being prepared, definitely left me under the impression that it was not as effective. Worse still, I felt a real sense of uneasiness throughout the treatment." Organic and natural products are highly sought after at the moment. Faced with numerous warnings outlining the dangers of certain creams and beauty products, clients are turning towards natural products. Catherine says she prefers organic or marine products. She recounts that "Marine products contain an impressive number of mineral salts and trace elements which are excellent for the skin as well as for boosting the morale. What is more, the faint sound of a distant wave during my treatment enables me to relax completely. I also appreciate it when my therapist gives me some samples o take home to help prolong the effects of the treatment.

Personalised treatment

Finally, in addition to demonstrating her technological know-how, the therapist must also personalize her interactions with each client. It is indispensable that she informs her clients about the evolution of professional techniques and she should be well acquainted with her products. A therapist is, first and foremost, a professional advisor! Catherine remembers how, for a long time, she used to do the opposite of what was recommended as far as her cleansing routine was concerned. Then her spa therapist showed her how to use only a little cleanser followed by more toner. In her story, based on the recommendations of her therapist, Isabelle started "a moisturising programme in the morning, complemented by firming products in the evening in order to restore my skin's firmness. I also learned how to apply cream gently, something which I had never done previously. I had been under the incorrect impression that applying my cream with a few vigorous gestures would reduce wrinkles. That was a complete fallacy as I was only adding to the problem… My therapist's advice helped me to preserve more youthful looking skin." 

Today, spa therapists have become very close to their clients: they have learned to bridge the gap between psychology and technology. They understand that a large part of their clients' motivation for coming to the spa is to relieve stress and boost their spirits. That said, Catherine feels that a therapist must "prove that she is trustworthy rather than offer empty flattery." The ability to listen is a crucial part of the relaxation process as it establishes a rapport between therapist and client. Catherine says, "I am very sensitive to the quality of listening exhibited by my therapist. Our conversations are even more invaluable when they can be conducted discretely and I don't need to worry about other patrons listening to what we are saying… When I leave, not only has she taken care of me during our session, but she also enables me to prolong the benefits of my treatment and most of all she has helped me to feel happy in my own skin. It is no real surprise then that she has become my best friend..."

Conclusion

The final word from clients who are overloaded with information about the latest treatments and spa techniques is that they appreciate the challenge involved in being a good spa therapist. Because, in addition to keeping up to date with technology, their relationships and involvement with their clients are a fundamental part of their business. The therapist alone is responsible for ensuring that clients stay loyal to their spa.