massage

We are delighted to announce that Exmouth’s most experienced and best-known massage therapist (previously based at the Osteopathic and Massage Centre on the High Street) now holds her clinic at the newly established, Exmouth Integrated Therapies, located along the Exeter Road - directly opposite ‘Krispies’.

About Caroline…….

I have been massaging now for thirty years and I still love it! 

I originally trained in ITEC Swedish and holistic massage and - combined with scuba diving - this enabled me to travel the world. I have worked in a wide variety of settings, but for twenty years I have enjoyed massaging at a clinic here in Exmouth with a monthly trip to London.

I am a member of the FHT and have continued to enjoy courses with a view to gaining new skills, knowledge and competence. Each of these has taught me something useful and include aromatherapy, sports massage, deep tissue, oncology massage for those living with cancer, myofascial release and numerous other massage and healing modalities.

Everybody’s reason for having a massage is unique. Some will have specific areas of pain or discomfort, while others are seeking something more general . A session will involve an assessment to determine the best approach. Pressure can range from deep to firm to gentle. 

Treatments Available - Types of Body Massage

•      Swedish Massage
•      Deep Tissue Massage
•      Sports Massage
•      Holistic Massage
•      Aromatherapy
•      Relaxation Massage
•      Myofascial Release (MFR)
•      Therapeutic 
•      Bodywork
•      Oncology Massage

Swedish Massage

This was traditionally thought to have been developed in the early 1800s by the Swedish pioneer of physical education Per Henrick Ling. It was, however, the Dutch massage practitioner Johann Georg Mezger in 1868 who named the five fundamental techniques of the “Swedish massage system”. These are: effleurage (gliding long or circular strokes); petrissage (kneading); friction (deep rubbing); tapotement (percussive tapping); vibration (rhythmic shaking or vibrating). It is also known as Classical Massage and can be enjoyed as a full-body routine or as the basis for many other forms of practice.

Deep Tissue Massage

As the name suggests, this is a deeper massage than Swedish. It may include the above Swedish techniques, but is more focussed on specific areas of chronic pain,injury or tension. Typically this could be back,neck and shoulders.

Sports Massage

A systematic, targeted massage using specific techniques to increase flexibility, improve range of motion and decrease tension. It can also be used before and after sport events. You do not need to be a sports person to enjoy a sports massage.

Holistic Massage

This approach takes into account a person’s whole being, not only their physical symptoms but also relevant psychological, emotional and environmental issues. As such, each person is treated as an individual within the context of their own life.

Aromatherapy

This is a holistic approach where essential oils are used within the context of a (usually) relaxing massage. A blend of essential oils is carefully chosen and then mixed with a choice of carrier oil. It is often used with Swedish massage, but essential oils could be used within any massage experience.

Relaxation Massage

A relaxation massage generally involves Swedish and holistic techniques, with or without aromatherapy oils, in smooth, gentle, flowing strokes. It is often a full-body treatment including face and head.

Myofascial Release (MFR)

Myofascial release is a gentle set of slow, sustained soft tissue techniques that can also be used alongside other approaches. It aims to release restrictions in the fascia and connective tissues and requires no oil.

 Therapeutic Massage

This is a broad, non-specific title to describe a massage that incorporates techniques from any massage modality and which is tailored individually for each person’s own unique requirements. It is often used to differentiate the massage from a pampering, “spa” massage. (Although a pampering massage can of course also be wonderful in its own right.) A therapeutic massage is less likely to be pure relaxation and more likely to be focussed on specific areas of discomfort.

Bodywork

An umbrella term to include complementary and alternative therapies that view the body and mind as a single integrated unit, the interrelationship of which may affect health and wellbeing.

Oncology Massage

This massage is for those who are living with cancer or with a history of cancer. Whether you are having treatment or the cancer is a distant memory, massage may be helpful both for general well-being or specific symptoms related to the treatment or the cancer itself. Especially if treatment is ongoing, it would be good to talk with your oncologist about any precautions or concerns they may have. It may also be

Over the years I have massaged many different ages and levels of mobility and fitness and I regularly see people with long-term conditions and health issues. Each of us has our own individual reasons for having a massage which in part may be physical, emotional or psychological. Sometimes, though, it is simply because it feels good!

I live in a small village on the edge of Dartmoor and I enjoy walking, camping and exploring. I also love languages, reading, art and history.

I will be in clinic on Monday and Tuesday each week, if you have any questions about whether massage is right for you, please feel free to contact me via the Clinic , either by phone or email:-

info@integrated-therapies.co.uk or by phone on 01395 904600.