Masterclass - Other Massage Techniques

I originally planned for this to focus on Swedish massage technique, however it only ended up being a few lines long and I was only repeating what I had written before. After a rethink I thought I would give a round up on the other techniques that are out there and a symmetrisation of each one

Amna Massage is the Japanese version of massage, using more deeper techniques and kneading.

Ayurvedic massage is the mixture of yoga, medication and herbal remedies; this uses one or two therapist and heated oil  The central concept of Ayurvedic medicine is the theory that health exists when there is a balance between three fundamental bodily humours or doshas called Vata, Pitta and Kapha.

Bare foot deep muscle uses the therapists feet that combines western and eastern techniques on the patients body. It is said that it can the same effect on the patient without causing strain of the therapists hand or back. Can also be done clothed or unclothed.

Bowen technique involves a rolling movement over muscles, ligaments, tendons and joints.The technique is less stress on the patients joints and is more recommended for very young or elderly patients.

Lympathic Massage technique used to gently work and stimulate the lymphatic system, to assist in reduction of localised swelling. Recommended for people who have slight;y sedate lifestyle, this works on a very light pressure combined with soft pumping movements in the direction of the lymph nodes.

Stone massage uses different temperature stones to soothe or stimulate the muscles, and can also take some strain for the therapist.

Swedish Technique uses five different long flowing strokes, it is only in English, Québécois and Dutch speakers that call it this, other countries refer it as a classic massage.

I do also recognise that there are many more variations out there with their own techniques and benefits.  

Next week - The start of the make up masterclass's

Masterclass - Reflexology

For someone who really didn't like feet that much, Reflexology was a weird choice of qualification I took after Aromatherapy and Indian Head Massage. My first practise model didn't increase my confidence as her feet didn't look very inviting with lumps of hard skin and general murkiness (sorry if you're eating). I had done my research before, it had ignited an interest so I ignored my fears and I am very glad I did.

Reflexology, also known as zone therapy, is done by applying pressure on either hands or feet using the therapists fingers and thumb. The belief is that the body is reflected onto the soles and palms of feet and hands, manipulating these areas can help the body into balancing the zones. It also can relief tension, and improves circulation.

The basis of reflexology was introduced by William H. Fitzgerald (ears, throat and nose specialist) and Dr. Edith Bowman in 1913, which split the hands and feet into ten zones that reflect the body. This was then modified by Eunich D. Ingham (a nurse and physiotherapist) who spilt the therapy into the 'reflexes' we use today.

Click to enlarge

The therapist will take a medical history before cleansing the feet, they will then either apply lotion or talc (I prefer talc a lot less slippery when your are working deeply). They will start with the head at the toes and systematical work down the foot, working a little harder on areas that they feel they need to. When I completed my Mani/Pedicure certificate I also Incorporated a pedi with the treatment, which also made my clients feel all floaty happy.

It is a interesting subject and from experience I have discovered things about the client just from their feet that they didn't inform me off. It is a recommended treatment for stress relief and has had some success (however no medically trailed) with fertility issues.

 Next week - The basis for most massage routines - Swedish