What Is A Holistic Massage? Learn About its Health Benefits

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Holistic massage is a therapeutic approach that focuses on treating the whole person - mind, body, and spirit. Holistic means whole (totality), so we see the body as a unity, a whole of different parts. This is a professional, therapeutic massage for health and well-being. Treatment considers all aspects of a client's physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being.

Holistic massage therapists may draw from various massage modalities and techniques, such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, aromatherapy, reflexology, or craniosacral therapy. The treatment may range from stimulating to gentle relaxing and deep tissue to invigorate the body.

Massage, in general, is holistic. It will affect all the body layers no matter what type of therapy we receive: Thai massage, deep tissue, Swedish massage or Relaxing massage. So what are the main health benefits of a Holistic Massage:

• Increasing energy by invigorating all the body systems
• A general sense of health and well-being
• Reduce stiffness and increase joint mobility
• Generally helps you to relax and unwind
• Relief from stress, anxiety and tension
• Improves skin and muscle tone
• Improved sleep
• Aids digestion

The benefits of massage have been reported to affect the rest of the levels of the body by increasing circulation, which are positive hormones of happiness, decrease stress hormones, and decrease muscle tension and pain. A mind can concentrate on other things and perform at its peak. This means improved ability to focus, concentration, and mental clarity. On an emotional level, it takes away frustration and irritability and improves your mood. One feels supported during the holistic massage, with a gentle touch and a feeling of peace and calmness.

Holistic Massage Prices in London & the UK

Treatment	Duration	Price (£)
Holistic Massage - London	30 minutes	£50
	60 minutes	£80
	90 minutes	£110
Holistic Massage - UK (Medium Price)	30 minutes	£45
	60 minutes	£70
	90 minutes	£95

Prices updated on 29 March 2024.

How Holistic Massage Looks Like?

If you're considering holistic massage therapy, seeking a qualified and experienced massage therapist specialising in this approach is recommended. A holistic practitioner treats the client as a whole, taking into account their emotional and spiritual well-being and physical body.

Therapists should take the time to understand your specific needs and create a treatment plan that addresses your requirements holistically. Holistic massage is an individual treatment that is specifically tailored to each client.

According to Bristol College of Massage and Bodywork "holistic massage is about setting an atmosphere, creating an energy, being in a particular vibe. How the massage is approached is as important as the techniques themselves." Here is a general overview of how a holistic massage session might look like:

• Initial consultation - the massage session typically begins with an initial consultation where the massage therapist gathers information about your health history, specific concerns or goals, and massage preferences. This helps the therapist understand your unique needs and customise the massage according to your body and needs.
• Setting and ambience - the massage session takes place in a comfortable and serene environment, often in a softly lit room with soothing music playing in the background. The massage table is padded and covered with clean linens, and the room may have calming scents or aromatherapy diffusers. The massage therapist aims to create a soothing environment, using techniques that promote relaxation and induce a sense of tranquillity.
• Communication and consent - the massage therapist will communicate with you throughout the session to ensure your comfort and satisfaction. It's important to communicate any discomfort, pain, or specific areas you want to focus on during the massage. They will explain the techniques they plan to use and ask for your consent before you go ahead.
• Relaxation and grounding - By emphasising relaxation and grounding during a massage, the therapist aims to help the client release physical and mental tension, release stress, and experience deep relaxation. The therapist may start the session with gentle breathing exercises or guided relaxation techniques, which help to calm the mind and prepare the body for the massage. Some therapists may have their unique approaches or incorporate specific practices such as mindfulness, meditation, or energy work to enhance relaxation and grounding.
• Massage techniques - the therapist will use a combination of massage techniques based on your specific needs and preferences. This may include long, flowing Swedish massage strokes for relaxation, deep tissue techniques to address muscle tension and knots, or other specialised techniques. They may include gentle strokes, rhythmic movements, and soothing touch to calm the nervous system and release muscle tension.
• Holistic massage starts on a massage bed or floor, where the massage therapist uses just his hands to feel the receiver and warm oil to start with the legs up to the head massage. Massage improves blood circulation and lymph flow towards the heart through these movements and pressure. Depending on the technique used, massage can involve working with the hands, fingers, elbows, knees, forearms, feet or many other massage aids.
• Integration of mind, body, and spirit - holistic massage therapy often incorporates elements that address the connection between mind, body, and spirit. This may involve mindful awareness, energy balancing techniques, or working with specific pressure points or chakras energy centres.
• Aromatherapy and essential oils - holistic massage and aromatherapy are often combined to create a synergistic and holistic approach to wellness and relaxation. Aromatherapy may be integrated into the session through the use of essential oils. These oils can be inhaled or applied topically, and they have the potential to impact physical, mental, and emotional health positively. The synergistic effect of the massage techniques and the aromatic properties of the oils can deepen the relaxation response, promote emotional balance, and enhance the overall massage experience.

Conclusion and Aftercare

In conclusion, holistic massage therapy offers a comprehensive approach to healing the mind, body, and spirit. Throughout the session, the therapist focuses on promoting relaxation, relieving tension, and restoring balance to enhance overall well-being. The treatment is tailored to your needs, ensuring a personalised experience that addresses your unique concerns and goals.

After your holistic massage therapy session, taking care of yourself and extending the benefits of the treatment is essential. The therapist may offer valuable aftercare recommendations to support your post-massage well-being. These may include gentle stretches to maintain flexibility, breathing exercises to promote relaxation, or lifestyle suggestions to enhance overall health. Following these self-care practices can further amplify the positive effects of the massage and prolong the sense of rejuvenation and tranquillity you experienced during the session.

Remember to listen to your body and be mindful of any changes or improvements you notice. Staying hydrated is crucial to help flush out toxins released during the massage and replenish your body. Incorporating regular massage sessions into your wellness routine can provide long-term benefits for your physical and emotional health, supporting your journey towards a balanced and harmonious lifestyle. Always communicate with your massage therapist about your experience and concerns, as they are dedicated to helping you achieve optimal well-being on your holistic healing journey.

Author – Martha Anderson - a creative writer, blogger, and expert in massage therapy, holistic wellness, nutrition, and personal training. She has a passion for helping individuals achieve optimal health and well-being. Martha holds advanced sports science and nutrition degrees and is committed to evidence-based practices. Her work emphasises understanding the intricate connections between physical health and mental wellness.

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