What is massage?

The quasi-scientific definition of massage (therapy) would be; Massage is the application, usually by hand, of systematic stroking or the manipulation to the soft tissues of the body for therapeutic purposes. The most well known massage movements are those that involve stroking and gliding (effleurage), kneading (petrissage), and percussion (tapotement).

This manipulation of skin, muscle and joints is proven to promote relaxation, the release tension and to normalise the soft tissues. There are over 80 different types of massage used in all parts of the world. Various forms include: acupressure, athletic, polarity, reflexology, rolfing, shiatsu, sports, Swedish, traeger, and watsu. The most common types are Swedish, sports and reflexology, but on a more fundamental level most types share the same principles.

Why undertake massage therapy?

Massage therapy research has so many scientifically proven benefits. Often people associate massage with holistic treatments but not all complementary medicine is the opposite of traditional medical practice. Massage therapy is one of the oldest forms of healing, which is drug free and non-invasive, and can be a way of promoting the relief of stress, pain and tension.

Other physiological and psychological benefits of massage include:

• Encourage better lymph drainage – good for circulation, and toxin removal
• Relieve muscle fatigue – Lactic acid levels in muscles are reduced
• Encourages synergy of mind and body – Helps develop good self-awareness of the body
• Sedate or stimulate the nervous system - Your nervous system switches from sympathetic to parasympathetic
• Encourages the bodies own healing systems
• Encourages good sleeping patterns
• Releases toxins – By increasing drainage at the Lymph nodes
• Relax stiff and sore muscles – Due to the decrease in lactic acid and toxin levels
• Increases circulation
• Improves digestion
• Improve self esteem
• Boosts immune system
• Increases oxygen
• Promotes general state of well being
• Maintain and promote healthy skin

How is massage therapy conducted?

The delivery of massage therapy will vary greatly from therapist to therapist, and also depends upon the category of massage therapy that is required or is being undertaken.

I (Phillip McDonnell) specialise in Swedish and Holistic Massage techniques, and I am developing my skills as a Sports Massage therapist, whilst pursuing an honours degree in Sports and Exercise Science here during my time in London.

For my massage sessions I like to incorporate principles from Yoga meditation to help the body and mind relax as one together, whilst also using my well established aromatherapy skills to encourage an almost positive, meditative and happy state of mind and body.

I greatly believe in the power of the mind, and making the mind and body one single entity. This is why I will use the above techniques as well as others to create this union. As a client, you will find it more energising afterwards and well as soothing.

I have a fixed massage table in its own area of the private gym (see photos), and clients will be required to wear one of the towels supplied. Changing room facilities are available.

Who can undergo massage therapy?

The majority of the population would benefit from massage therapy, whether it is to decrease stress levels or accelerate injury rehabilitation.

If you are considering undergoing massage therapy and suffer from any medical problem that you think may cause complications, it is advised to see your GP and obtain a note from him saying that you are able to undergo the therapy. (This is good practice even if you do not knowingly suffer form any medical condition.)

Any other contra-indications that are noticed by Phillip McDonnell will be noticed and discussed prior or sometimes during treatment.

When can I have a massage?

Now that you are ready to have massage therapy, all you need to do is contact me and we can sort of a convenient time for both of us…Then I will let the hands do the talking.

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