COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES IN YORK ---
Receive 10% discount off your first visit when you quote Natural Therapy Pages. Owner James McHugh is one of Yorks most experienced therapist, qualified in many therapies aswell as Yoga he specialises in both Pain and Tension Relief and giving Total Relaxation
Welcome to Holistic Touch
COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES IN YORK
Are you suffering from physical pain or discomfort that will just not go away?
Do you feel stressed, low self esteem or depressed?
Let me help you to allow your body to release, relax and balance itself by using some of the many skills & techniques we have available.
Your pain dissolves, your mood lifts and you can feel that sense of being grounded and being able to cope again.
If this sounds like what you need then either telephone or email me to make an appointment. Also Print off this section of the page and bring it along to qualify for a 10% discount off your first visit..
WE OFTEN HAVE SPECIAL OFFERS SO RING NOW TO FIND OUT WHATS AVAILABLE.
DO YOU SUFFER FROM PAIN OR TENSION?
We specialise in "SPORTS MASSAGE THERAPY" or "DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE" to assist in recovery from illness,and aches,such as: back and shoulder pains, leg and joint pains, RSI,etc. or to assist in the preparation for sporting events or training. By using these techniques in most cases we are able to reduce pain, swelling and improve range of motion. Ensuring a speedy recovery.
DO YOU FEEL STRESSED OR FIND IT DIFFICULT TO SLEEP?
We also bring REIKI to York an ancient healing system which rebalances the bodys energy system, ideal for those who feel that massage is not form them, or try:
INDIAN HEAD MASSAGE very effective in reducing neck and head tension the cause of many head aches. Ayurvedic Oils can be applied or not either way your hair still still has a benficial treatment.
REFLEXOLOGY may suit you better it works on the feet and the meridian lines throughout the body in which techniques are applied to the foot reflexes.
ARE YOU FEELING UNDER THE WEATHER LACKING IN ENERGY OR JUST NEED A SPECIAL TREATMENT TO RECOUP?
"THAI YOGA MASSAGE" in York, a full body clothed massage that works on the energy lines releasing tension whilst using Yoga stretches to work joints and muscles offering something exciting for the discerning client.
"HAWAIIAN MASSAGE" come and experience a treatment with a difference practiced by an Hawaiian massage Diploma holder or "HOT STONE THERAPY" which can provide either relaxing or deeper tissue release, or may even be combined together for a real unique experience.
ARE YOU PREGNANT AND SUFFERING THE ACHES AND TENSIONS ASSOCIATED WITH PREGNANCY?
For instance our PREGNANCY MASSAGE" in York is also one of our specialities, where the women from York and its surrounding towns and villages now have a therapy designed for them and their unborn child.
Holistic Touch offers Complementary Therapy in York and is a business that puts its clients health and care at the top of its agenda, it is a business built upon its passion about the therapies it provides. Established in 2004, our client service and integrity is never compromised, and we pride ourselves upon the friendly care and attention to detail given to all our clients.
The main therapist is James McHugh, (Proprietor) wellknown in the area as a qualified & very experienced practitioner and Yoga teacher. We only employ fully qualified therapists to practise their skills at Holistic Touch where we offer a range of treatments to enhance well-being of body and mind. We are constantly looking to add new Complementary therapies to our portfolio of services offered, but will only provide treatments that have been proven to add value to our clients health care.
YOU MAY BE SURPRISED TO FIND THAT YOU MIGHT BE ELIGABLE FOR ONE OF THE MANY DISCOUNTS WE OFFER COMPANIES AND GROUPS.
We would be happy to talk to you about what you needs are and which treatment may be the most benficial our website as many more options. Even tailoring a treatment combination to suite you.
If you wish to try HATHA YOGA either on a one to one tuition or in a class look at our yoga page for details.
Here at HOLISTIC TOUCH we strive to be the best in what we do, and offer an environment to escape from the stresses of modern living.
But here are some of the benefits that a visit to us can offer.
General Benefits for the client
Stress reduction
Ease of tension and aches
Improved tone and muscles
Elimination of toxins through Lymphatic drainage
Improved circulation
Reduction in cellulite
Increased range of motion of limbs and joints
Energy balancing
Self-awareness and Self-esteem
Releasing of negative emotional patterns
Stimulating cooperation between body and mind
Relaxation and body awareness
Meditation, creative visualisation
Breathing techniques
Therapy Menu
Click on a link below to jump to your desired section
Relaxing Therapies
Swedish Massage
Caring touch and massage bring about a sense of well being and relaxation. Massage also soothes tired, aching muscles and is a wonderful way of relieving stress. It also speeds up the circulation, helping in the removal of waste and toxins from the body and bringing nutrients to the cells.
Before your first treatment your therapist will carry out a consultation with you to identify any medical conditions which may indicate that massage treatment is not appropriate for you.
During consultation your therapist will answer any questions you may have and establish what you would like to gain from the treatment.
Most massages are given on a treatment couch. Clients having full body massage
are covered with towels, only exposing the area worked upon esnsuring that dignity and privacy are maintained at all times.
Reflexology
Reflexology is a system of foot treatments, where the foot acts as a reflection of the whole body. By gentle techniques made to various parts of the feet, the bodys reflexes are activated, giving a sense of well-being to the affected areas.
Reflexology is sometimes favoured over other forms of therapies because undressing is not required. It works on the longitudual zones and nerves pathways that run through the length of the entire body.
By working on corresponding areas of the feet the healing process is triggered amd am involuntary response is effected in the relevant organs, glands, etc.
BENEFITS- Improves circulation
- Stress reduction
- Promotes relaxation
- May offer pain relief
- Reblances the body
- Energises the body and helps to clear blockages
- Strengthens the immune system.
- Has been found to be an effective treatment for couples wishing to conceive
Reiki
Reiki is an ancient system of healing,rediscovered in Japan in the nineteenth
century. Reiki means ’Universal life force energy’. It is a very safe treatment which means that anyone can benefit from it.
Reiki can:- Support and accelerate the body’s natural healing ability
- Help to alleviate pain
- Reduce stress
- Promote relaxation
- Treat symptoms and causes of illness
- Bring about a feeling of well being
Treatments:
A full Reiki treatment usually lasts 1 hour. Shorter treatments can be given and Reiki can be given with other treatments.Clients having Reiki treatments remain fully clothed except for shoes and coats. Treatment is usually carried out with the client lying on a couch but if unable a chair can be used.
During the Reiki treatment your therapist will place their hands on or just above your body in different positions for 3 to 5 minutes (longer if needed) on each area. The front of the body is usually treated first and then you will be asked to turn over so that the back of the body may be treated.
Some clients feel sensations of heat, cold or tingling from the therapists hands. Others may not feel much at all but this doesn’t mean that the Reiki isn’t working.
Reiki treatment is a pleasant, relaxing and stress relieving experience. Clients often drift off to sleep during treatment. If this happens the treatment will continue and you will be gently woken when it is over.
The feeling of relaxation after a Reiki treatment can sometimes last for days.
Advanced Thermo Auricular-Therapy (Hopi-Ear)
The word "Hopi" means people of peace and is the name of a native Indian tribe in America where this therapy is taken from.
The Candles
The candles are hollow and are made of beeswax,honey extract,traditional herbs such as Sage, St.John's wort, Camomile and pure essential oils
The Treatment
In both the basic and advanced treatments the client undergoes an ear inspection using an Otoscope and consultation, a lit candle is placed in the ear and a moderate suction action is created, manipulating the tympanic membrane. The movement of the flame creates a gentle vibration which may result in the following benefits;
Benefits- Migranes & Headaches
- Balance
- Snoring
- Tonsillitis
- Cold, flu and sore throats
- Stress
- Noises in the ear, e.g. Tinnitus
- Blocked Sinuses
- Reduces wax
- Calming and aids alertness and clear thinking.
INDIAN / EASTERN HEAD MASSAGE
This is a non-invasive treatment which is applied to the upper back, shoulders, arms, neck, face and scalp, resulting in a de-stressing effect on the whole body.
The client remains seated throughout and is fully clothed, Eastern head massage is oil free, which means your hair wont get messed up with a lubricant during the treatment.
BENEFITS- Improves blood flow to the head and neck
- Aids lymphatic drainage
- Reduces muscle tension and stress
- Helps improve muscle tone
- Boosts blood supply
- Promotes deep relaxation
- Helps relieve conjection to the head( such as in, Sinusitus and Tinnitus)
In the Indian version oils may be used as part of the treatment.
AROMATHERAPY
Aromatherapy Massage may be available on request
Purpose of Aromatherapy Massage
Aromatherapy massage focuses on relaxation, increasing circulation and removing toxins from the body. The essential oils used can be uniquely blended to suite the clients specific needs. For example lavender and chamomile are blended together to relax and calm the body and mind. Eucalyptus is added to help ease a cold, and Tea tree is a great antiseptic for greasy, spotty skin.
As well as physical ailments, emotional needs can be met by using oils known to have antidepressant and calming qualities.
Essential oils are absorbed via the skin and the respiratory system. They promote chemical changes in the body and react with hormones and enzymes. When the oils are inhaled they affect the “smell centre” of the brain called the limbic area, this in turn helps to regulate positive and emotional responses.
Oils are divided into categories called notes. They include top, middle and base, where the most aromatic are the top notes. It is beneficial to blend a mix which includes all three notes.
As essential oils affect the balance of the body and mind it is important to take a full consultation before the treatment, to give the client the maximum benefit. Many ailments can be treated with essential oils however for recurring or serious conditions it is recommended that a doctor is consulted. Essential oils are also widely used for their antiseptic properties
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Hawaiian Massage& Hot Stone Therapy
HAWAIIAN LOMI LOMI MASSAGE
Hawaiian massage taken from ancient traditions, Kahuna bodywork & Lomi-Lomi which means “loving hands”. It has been practiced for hundreds of years by Polynesian cultures and passed down from generation to generation. Although now popular in many countries around the world, it is still relatively new to the UK. The techniques of this ancient form of massage differ from western massage through application of forearm movements and stretch techniques. The treatment goes as deep as the recipient can tolerate, therefore it can be a very powerful massage. This is a full all over body massage where minimal coverings are used to allow full flowing movements up the sides of the body,more than a massage it offers an experience like no other.
Typically a treatment would last up to 2hrs.
HOT STONE THERAPY
Hot stone therapy is a kind of massage that uses treated volcanic rocks such as basalt that promote relaxation as well as eliminating negative energy within the client’s body, mind and soul. Use of the stones can also provide a deeper tissue massage to remove tension from the body.
The treatment lasts approx.90mins and is a full body massage with the stones laid on and under the body.
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Therapeutic & Sports Massage
SWEDISH MASSAGE THERAPY
"Swedish Massage" refers to a variety of techniques specifically designed to relax muscles by applying pressure to them against deeper muscles and bones.
The therapist moves the strokes in the same direction as the flow of blood, returning it to the heart. Swedish massage was developed in the 1700's by a Swedish doctor named Per Henrik Ling.
Benefits of Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is relaxing and yet can be invigorating. It affects the nerves, muscles, glands, and circulation, it removes toxins from the soft tissues which can be flushed out of the body.
Its good for recovery of injury and overuse, it can de-stress and promotes health and well being.
Purpose of Swedish Massage
The main purpose of Swedish massage is to increase the oxygen flow in the blood and release toxins from the muscles. Swedish massage shortens recovery time from muscular strain by flushing the tissues of lactic acid, uric acid, and other metabolic wastes. It increases circulation without increasing heart load. It stretches the ligaments and tendons keeping them supple and pliable. Swedish Massage also stimulates the skin and nervous system and soothes the nerves themselves at the same time. It reduces stress, both emotional and physical, and is suggested in a regular program for stress management. It also has many specific medical uses.
Swedish massage techniques include: long strokes, kneading, friction, tapping, percussion, vibration, effleurage, and shaking motions.
DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE
This form of massage once we have relaxed the superfical muscles goes deeper in to the underlying tissues than Swedish massage, Deep Tissue Massage increases circulation throughout the body.
It cleanses your body of waste products that can cause fatigue and soreness. Massage promotes restful sleep. Many people find that massage helps with accomplishing a full night's rest. Massage helps the body and mind relax, and it's a great way to end a hectic day.
Massage releases your natural endorphins that reduce pain and give feel-good factor. Is a great way to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system and so lowering the pulse, slowing breathing and, in general, chilling you out.
By assisting in breaking down of scar tissue & adhesions and improved blood circulation massage speeds up the elimination of waste products which in effect promotes healing.
It can also benefit those suffering from PMT, menopausal symptoms, skin complaints and in respiratory ailments, as well as being useful in the treatment of depression and emotional traumas.
For relief from aches and pain different massage techniques are applied some working deep into the tissues and fibres of the muscles and tendons. The depth of pressure is always under the clients control, whilst deep its the technique and not brute strength that gets results.
SPORTS MASSAGE THERAPY
Sports massage therapy treatment includes manipulative work, stretching, pre-training, post-training and sports injuries. It works on different levels according to your needs.
Pre-event sports massage therapy takes place before an event (or workout), as part of warming up, Pre-event sports massage therapy warms up the muscles - getting the blood circulation going and allowing longer workout with reduced risk of injury, increased flexibility and greater range of motion .
Post event sports massage therapy takes place after the event to reduce the muscle spasms and metabolic build up that occurs after intensive exercise. Post-event sports massage therapy relieves muscle cramps and spasm, by jumpstarting the process of removing lactic acid build up in muscles that occurs with exercise.
Maintenance sports massage therapy is designed to help the athlete reach peak performance through a routine program of massage and stretching techniques. Rehabilitation sports massage therapy aids in the management of both acute and chronic injuries. These benefits are valuable not only for athletes, but for anyone who works out on a regular basis.
Maintenance or rehabilitation sports massage therapy increases flexibility and range of motion, reducing muscle scar tissue formation, muscle soreness, stiffness, cramps and pain. Maintenance sports massage therapy recharges and renews the body and reduces the risk of injury.
Top competing athletes are increasingly using sports massage therapy as part of their training program to help during pre and post events, prevention and management of injury and rehabilitation. It involves manipulation of soft tissues (connective tissue, muscle, skin, ligaments and tendons). It tends to be deeper and more concentrated than other massage and involves techniques of stretching, compression, friction and toning.
It is designed to assist in correcting musculoskeletal imbalances and problems in soft tissue, which have been caused during strenuous activity and trauma. The application of Sports Massage Therapy aims to aid recovery, prevent injury and enhance physical performance.
BENEFITS- Physical
- Improves muscle flexibility
- Relieves muscle tensionv
- Improves the ability of stretching muscles
- Reduces muscle spasm
- Improves scar tissue formation
- Reduces swelling
Physiological- Increases blood and lymph flow
- Improves oxygen and nutrients supply to tissues
- Improves waste removal
- Relieves pain
- Stimulates the nervous system
- It specializes in problems with muscles injured either on the sports field or in day-to-day activities.
Psychological- Relieves tension and anxiety
Pain relief- Stimulates physical activity
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Yoga & Thai Massage
YOGA
Hatha Yoga is available around North Yorkshire, classes are for mixed groups of all ages, suitable for beginners or the more experienced student.
James is a fully qualified British Wheel of Yoga teacher a qualified adult education tutor (P.G.C.E.) and is also a Member of the Institute for Learning.(M.I.f.L.)
James teachers Hatha Yoga in which the pace and style is tailored to the individuals needs and abilities. Emphasising the non-competitive nature of Yoga, James strongly believes that its the journey that counts not the final destination. So students are encouraged to relax and enjoy their Yoga.
A typical session will include, an initial Relaxation, Centering of the body / mind, Limbering, and Yoga Asanas (postures), Pranayama (breathing exercises), and a final Relaxation.
Insights to other aspects of Yogic practices are also occasionaly included to give the student the opportunity to acquire a foundation of knowledge in these areas, to prepare them if they wish to explore the world of Yoga further.
A typical class will also provide students a chance to interact in a fun loving atmosphere, and practice their Yoga towards their own objectives.
Hatha Yoga
Practiced for thousand of years, James holds classes around North Yorkshire and brings together his own style of teaching which incorporates most aspects of Hatha Yoga. Beginners are welcomed in most classes and he is happy to take his teaching in to the workplace or school /college.
Individual tuition is availabe at Holistic Touch where James can work with the client to give one-one guidance, ideal for beginners, those with injury or disability or improvers wanting a more.
We are fully insured by The British Wheel of Yoga,
The British Wheel of Yoga is a registered charity and is the largest yoga organisation in the country, running for 40 years. It is members-based and organised into 11 regions. They are also recognised by the Sports Council as the national Governing Body for Yoga in Great Britain and are a leading member of the European Union of Yoga. They represent the UK at the European Federation of National Yoga Organisations.
THAI YOGA MASSAGE
The Treatment
Traditional Thai Massage is a blend of yoga, acupressure and reflexology, Traditional Thai Massage, or Nuad Bo-Rarn, is designed to relax and open the body's natural energy flow. Unlike the strokes of western-style massage, Traditional Thai Massage uses point pressure, muscle stretching and compression done in a rhythmic movement of gentle rocking.
Sessions usually last from 90 to 120 minutes, so please allow yourself some extra time to experience this ancient form of bodywork.
Thai massage has been called “Passive Yoga” - because of the passive range of motion on the part of the receiver.
The therapist helps stretch your body into a variety of yoga-like positions at the same time doing manual compression strokes on the muscles to further enhance the stretch and release tension.
Thai Foot Massage
Thai Foot Massage is a massage of the lower legs and feet that involves hands on stretching and massage to “open” Sen (energy) Lines, along with the use of a stick to stimulate the reflex points on the feet which correspond to the internal organs of the body. Thai Foot Massage stimulates these points to promote general health and well-being. A Treatment in Thai Foot Massage will usually last for one hour.
Traditional Thai Massage and Thai Foot Massage compliment each other beautifully. Thai Massage balances the elements of the mind and body, while Thai Foot Massage stimulates the internal organs, giving the receiver an holistic treatment.
Benefits of a Thai Foot Massage- improved circulation in legs and feet
- stimulates lymphatic drainage
- helps remove toxins
- helps boost the immune system
- reduces stiffness and improves flexibility
Thai Yoga massage also known as passive yoga, is a full body treatment design to be perfomed with the client fully clothed wearing loose fitting garments laid on a futon. The therapists works along SEN lines up and down the body, releasing energy removing any blockages, whilst moving the body through various yogic based positions giving the body deep stretches.
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Pregnancy Treatments
Pregnancy Treatments
Pregnancy is a miraculous event in which it is vital that the Mother is cared for and her health and well-being is made a priority, incorporating regular massage should support this process.
After the first trimester a monthly treatment will benefit both Mother and Baby, providing relief form aches and pains whilst calming and de-stressing. Our monthly treatment plan is designed to complement other therapies and exercise systems such as: Yoga.
Being pregnant can become a very joyous experience, but at the same time your body is undergoing lots of changes, some may be not so pleasant, at "Holistic Touch" we pride ourselves in being able to offer assistance to the Ladies of York and its surrounding areas. We have undertaken specialist training in "Treating the Pregnant Woman", ensuring that contra-indications are avoided and the comfort and well-being of both Mother and Baby are never compromised.
Relieve that lower back pain and those aching legs, improve your circulation, boost your immune system and increase the lymphatic drainage which helps reduce hand and foot swelling. It also assists in removing toxins from the body and promotes healthier skin. Many of Yorks mums to be have benefited from the relief of aches and pains, as well as experiencing total relaxation and the de-stressing qualities from our treatments.
Treat yourself and your unborn baby to a relaxing, therapeutic full-body massage. Or incorporate Reiki healing with a localised massage treatment or choose one of our other therapies to suit your needs. We also offer Reflexology for pregnancy.
PREGNANCY MASSAGE THERAPY
The client will be positioned into Fowlers Position (a supported supine position which prevents the uterus from falling back up the pelvis rim & pressing on the aorta & vena cava which may otherwise decrease blood return to the heart, known as “Supine Hypotensive Syndrome”)
The arms, hands, & upper shoulders are massaged followed by the abdomen, (in a clockwise direction) front of both legs and feet.
The client is then moved in to a Left Lateral Lie position, supported by pillows where greater blood return to the heart can take place. The backs of the legs, back, shoulders and neck are treated in this position. This is an ideal position for access to the lower back, where tension builds.
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On-Site, Corporate & Events
CORPORATE / ON-SITE TREATMENTS
Work Related Stress
Stress has become an increasingly global phenomenon affecting all professions, families and societies in general. With 90% of visits to G.P.'s for stress related illness, there is evidence that stress at work is associated with changes in behaviour as well as physiological functions, which may be detrimental to health.
Specifically, stress may contribute to the development of various symptoms of occupational ill health such as back pain and repetitive strain injury (RSI), and can affect all major systems and organs in the body.
It is also becoming a major factor in the demotivation of the workforce, employees now expect their employers to provide a workplace environment where their well being is never compromised.
Here at Holistic Touch we can provide on-site therpies that will assist employers to provide the care and preventative treatments necessary to promote a healthy workforce.
We can offer on-site Well-Being Awareness days for your staff to benefit from taster sessions of our popular transportable treatments, then by popular demand arrange for regular on-site therapies to be carried out, during lunch / tea breaks / or at the workstation. This is very beneficial to those employed in offices, education or in I.T. where computer / desk bound working environments can form a major factor in poor posture and stress.
EVENTS
If your planning a Corporate , sports or group event then at Holistic Touch we can provide on-site therapy treatments to enhance your event.
Our range of therapies will provide your clients, customers, staff, or friends with a memorable, fun and healthy option that will give your event an extra dimension in caring for your guests well-being.
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QUALIFICATION DETAILS
VTCT Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy
VTCT Certificate in Swedish Massage
VTCT Ceriticate in Reflexology
VTCT Diploma in Indian Head Massage
BWY Diploma in Yoga Teaching
P.G.C.E.
Certificate in Thai Massage
Certificate in Hot Stone Therapy
Diploma in Hawaiian Massage
Diploma in Thai Herbal Compress Massage
Certificate in Advanced Thermal Auricular Therapy
Reiki Level 2
Service Categories
Acupressure, Acupuncture, Connective Tissue Massage, Corporate Massage, Corporate Yoga, Deep Tissue Massage, Ear Candling, Energy Healing, Hatha Yoga, Hawaiian Massage, Holistic Massage, Indian Head Massage, Lymphatic Drainage, Mobile Service Massage, Pregnancy Massage, Reflexology, Reiki, Remedial Massage, Remedial Therapies, Sports Massage, Stone Therapy Massage, Swedish Relaxation Massage, Thai Massage, Trigger Point Therapy, Yoga
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