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I specialise in trying to unwind and relax mind and body using non-invasive, gentle and effective touch therapies
Touch Therapy
Having first qualified as a clinical reflexologist I have gone on to take post-graduate qualifications in sub-fertility and maternity reflexology and also in the benefits of reflexology in cancer and palliative care. I am also very interested in the effects of reflexology on chronic stress and anxiety disorders. I have developed my reflexology skills further with Anthony Porter who devised and teaches a deeper style known as A.R.T. (Advanced Reflexology Techniques).
I am a fully qualified massage therapist in therapeutic massage (also known as remedial, holistic or Swedish) with post-graduate diplomas in pregnancy massage, Indian head massage and natural facelift massage. I also use deep tissue massage techniques and stretches where necessary.
about massage
Therapeutic massage, also known as Swedish massage or remedial massage, works on the muscles to release tension, ease pain and improve range of motion in the body. It stimulates both the blood and lymphatic circulatory systems encouraging oxygen and nutrient delivery to body tissues and eliminating toxins and waste products.
My treatment is based on the original principles of Swedish massage and uses the five fundamental strokes of effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, friction and vibration to effect physical and psychological relaxation. I also introduce deep tissue massage techniques and stretching where needed. While the physical manipulation of the muscles helps reduce muscular tension, many of the techniques also calm the autonomic nervous system, switching it from its sympathetic mode (adrenaline-driven, fast-paced, stressed) to the parasympathetic mode (relaxation, healing, cell renewal).
how might it help me?
The benefits of therapeutic massage include the following:- improves blood circulation, increasing the flow of oxygen and nutrients around the body
- relief from postural problems arising from a sedentary lifestyle
- improved removal of toxins
- release of endorphins, our 'feel-good' chemicals which lift our spirits and lower our levels of pain
- relief from muscular aches and stiffness
- relief from headaches and migraine
- improved sleep patterns and reduction in insomnia
- reduction in levels of stress and anxiety
- improvement in energy levels and
- relief from fatigue
- relief from musculoskeletal problems such as low back pain,
- osteoarthritis, sprains and strains
- improvement in the symptoms of fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome
- relief from chronic constipation when performed abdominally
- reduction in oedema (swelling)
- in the workplace access to massage has been shown to reduce stress, increase productivity and reduce days lost through sickness
- other studies show that massage has immediate beneficial effects on pain and mood among patients with cancer
about natural facelift massage
Combining ancient Ayurvedic theory with a practical, modern approach to looking and feeling your best whatever your age, this non-invasive treatment can help to reduce the visible signs of ageing and improve skin tone by means of simple, natural and effective massage techniques.
The origins of this treatment lie in Ayurvedic medicine – an Indian healing system over four thousand years old. As well as balancing the body Ayurveda places great emphasis on massage as being essential to health and beauty.
The benefits of treatment
Performed by a trained practitioner this massage provides some or all of the following benefits. For lasting results a series of treatments is recommended as the effects are cumulative.-
Reduces wrinkles and habitual expression lines
- Releases tension in surrounding muscles
- Reduces under-eye bags and puffiness
- Tones and firms facial muscles
- Increases elasticity and improves skin tone
- Enhances supply of nutrients to skin cells through improved circulation
- Frees constrictions in connective tissue and facial muscles
- Generates a glowing appearance for days
- Promotes a relaxed, more mobile and youthful appearance
- Relieves stress-related symptoms such as headaches, eyestrain and insomnia
about indian head massage
A wonderfully relaxing and uplifting treatment brought to the UK from its cultural and spiritual home of India by Narendra Mehta, I have adapted this treatment since training with Narendra to include the optional use of oils. It is based on the traditional form of ‘champi’ (head massage) practised in daily family life, in barber shops and on street corners in India for over a thousand years. It works specifically on the areas of the body most commonly affected by physical and psychological stress.
how might it help me?
Working on particular areas of the body, especially the neck and shoulders where stress affects major muscle groups, can bring immediate relief. Once you try this treatment for yourself you will no doubt able to add to this long list of physical and psychological benefits…- general and specific muscle relaxation
- fibrous adhesions (knots and nodules) can be broken down
- dispersal of toxins from tense, knotted muscles
- relief from chronic neck and shoulder stiffness
- promotion of deep relaxation
- increased oxygen uptake in tissues
- improved circulation of blood through muscular system
- improved energy levels and concentration
- improvement in circulation of the lymphatic system
- relief from stiffness in the neck and shoulders
- stimulation of healthy, shiny hair
- promotion of hair growth
- help in the relief of eyestrain, headache and migraine
- insomnia and sleep disorders
- relief from anxiety and stress
- regulation of blood pressure
- relief from the symptoms of TMJ (tempero-mandibular joint tension)
- relief from the symptoms of sinusitis
about pregnancy massage
In pregnancy many women find that gentle massage helps to relieve muscular tension and provides reassurance and support during what can be both an anxious as well as an exciting time. Choices for pain relief are limited during pregnancy and, as the baby grows and women start to feel the strain in their joints, ligaments, back and legs, massage can alleviate many uncomfortable symptoms. Treatment also provides an important space to take time out and prepare for the birth emotionally and physically. The treatment is valuable and enjoyable at any stage during pregnancy but is particularly beneficial during the third trimester when many issues such as heavy limbs, oedema (fluid retention), leg cramps, lower back pain and anxiety about the birth can arise.
how might it help me?
Potential benefits of pregnancy massage include:- Relief from muscle strain, aches and pains, and joint and ligament pain
- Reduction of oedema (swelling) in legs, feet and hands
- Relief from sciatic pain by treating lower back spasm
- Regulates hormones by reducing the ‘stress’ hormones and increasing our ‘feel-good’ hormones such as dopamine and serotonin
- Increasing these hormones reduces the incidence of depression
- Improved hormone balance also leads to fewer complications in labour, birth and in the postnatal period
- Improves our blood circulation
- Improves lymphatic drainage and removal of toxins from your body
- The deep relaxation achieved during massage promotes better sleep patterns
- Regular massaging of the soft tissues helps to prevent stretch marks
- Massage helps your body prepare for delivery by helping increase elasticity and range of motion in the joints and muscles associated with childbirth
about maternity reflexology
Trying for a baby, getting pregnant, carrying a growing baby, delivery, recovery – for many women it all seems to be a very straightforward process but for some it can be a very long and daunting journey. Alongside all the excitement and elation there can be frustrations and setbacks and even the smoothest pregnancy is often paved with unexpected and unwanted symptoms. It brings great changes not only in the body but also in the emotions and psyche of the mother.
How might it help me?
Reflexology has firmly established its reputation and popularity by the many effective results women have experienced. In recent years reflexology has been shown to be successful in:- preparing and relaxing the body for conception
- relief from the symptoms of a variety of pregnancy ailments and conditions
- promoting shorter labours closer to term
- adjusting to the demands of a new baby
- supporting women through post-natal depression
- maintaining and increasing milk supply
- supporting the menstrual cycle as it returns to normal
NEW TO TOUCH THERAPY
about infant massage
Infant massage classes from newborn to pre-crawling - groups of up to 8 babies at my Dulwich practice on Tuesday mornings and afternoons...
A new addition to my practice specialising in maternity reflexology, baby reflexology and pregnancy massage I am delighted to announce my baby massage classes are now up and running on Tuesday mornings and afternoons.
Following the International Association of Infant Massage curriculum this course teaches a wonderful massage routine for you to practise on your baby as well as the theory of bonding and attachment, behavioural states, engagement cues, 'listening' to your baby, adaptations for your growing child etc. You will learn a full body routine plus a gas and colic routine which may help alleviate painful symptoms as well as some gentle yoga movements and touch relaxation. Come and meet other new parents or round up some local friends and come as a group - I supply oil and handouts just bring your baby and a sense of humour!
Call or email me on 07932 698 864 or info@touchtherapy.co for availability.
Service Categories
Holistic Massage, Indian Head Massage, Pregnancy Massage, Reflexology, Swedish Relaxation Massage
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