When I started my venture into the world of beauty last year I was very excited about learning about facials, nails and waxing, etc, but had no specific interest in massage, which was fine as we were told we would have to do another full year to specialise in it. Pah, not for me, no sir'ee!!
...Then I got a job in a spa...where people go for massages...and I suddenly realised I had to learn, fast!!
I took a couple of quick courses outside of college and at work to learn some basic massage techniques and trained with a very good friend who runs her own aromatherapy sports massage clinic, and practised on a few willing models; however, the beauty industry doesn't give you very long to practise, suddenly I was giving massages to fully-paying clients - which I'm now doing on a daily basis!!
And I have to say - I really enjoy it!! I shouldn't be surprised; I'm so passionate about giving facials, learning about skin and treating different skin types, and I love the power of using my hands to relax people, in a warm room with a scented candle and gentle, peaceful music softly playing - it's blissful to be honest!! I've realised the body is just an extension of the face....! Massages are very popular in the beauty business, they account for your main bread and butter by being so profitable; so I guess I was always going to have to learn it one day.
...Then I got a job in a spa...where people go for massages...and I suddenly realised I had to learn, fast!!
I took a couple of quick courses outside of college and at work to learn some basic massage techniques and trained with a very good friend who runs her own aromatherapy sports massage clinic, and practised on a few willing models; however, the beauty industry doesn't give you very long to practise, suddenly I was giving massages to fully-paying clients - which I'm now doing on a daily basis!!
And I have to say - I really enjoy it!! I shouldn't be surprised; I'm so passionate about giving facials, learning about skin and treating different skin types, and I love the power of using my hands to relax people, in a warm room with a scented candle and gentle, peaceful music softly playing - it's blissful to be honest!! I've realised the body is just an extension of the face....! Massages are very popular in the beauty business, they account for your main bread and butter by being so profitable; so I guess I was always going to have to learn it one day.
With this new discovery, and having spoken to lots of experienced therapists, I suddenly realised that the best option for my learning and future would be to return to college next month and study for my Level 3 qualification, specialising in traditional Swedish body massage, pre-blended aromatherapy, hot stone therapy and Indian head massage - and continue to learn 'on the job' at the spa. Not only will I receive massages at college every week, but I'll need willing models and you'll only be looking at £15 for a full body massage...!! I'll continue to post requests on my facebook page.
People who know me well know that I like to do a job well, and I want to confidently massage people and know that what I'm doing will benefit them. I've already learnt that all walks of life come into a salon or spa; people with osteoarthritis, people who regularly visit a physio but want to treat themselves to a nice massage whilst away, mums-to-bes, cancer survivors, sports people, etc. I'm looking forward to really understanding how the body works and how it can respond to massage and using my hands to make people feel better. And I'm really excited about the holistic possibilities of this training and who I can help in the future, like going to hospices and elderly care homes to treat residents, or maybe learn baby massage!
DIFFERENT TYPES OF MASSAGE
Before I entered this world I knew massage was a good thing to give and receive (we've all straddled a loved one and pretended to know what we're doing!) but I didn't know what type of massage did what:
| Swedish Body Massage Massage therapists use long smooth strokes, kneading, and circular movements on superficial layers of muscle using massage lotion or oil. Swedish massage therapy can be very gentle and relaxing. If you've never had massage before, this is a good one to try first. | Aromatherapy Massage Aromatherapy massage is massage therapy with the addition of one or more scented plant oils called essential oils to address specific needs. The massage therapist can select oils that are relaxing, energizing, stress-reducing, balancing, etc. |
| Deep tissue Massage Deep tissue massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. The massage therapist uses slower strokes or friction techniques across the grain of the muscle. Deep tissue massage is used for chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems, or recovery from injury. People often feel sore for one to two days after deep tissue massage.  Indian Head Massage Indian head massage has been practiced in India for over a thousand years, to release the stress and tension that has accumulated in the tissues, muscles and joints of the head, face, neck and shoulders. Clients, fully clothed, sit in a massage chair for the treatment and it can either be carried out as a 'dry' massage, or with oil - which can also be great for your hair and to stimulate hair growth. In addition, the therapist may also gently stimulate and stroke pressure points on the face to help blood circulation and relieve sinusitis. |  Thai Massage Thai massage aligns the energies of the body using gentle pressure on specific points. Thai massage also includes compressions and stretches. The therapist moves and stretches you into a sequence of postures. It's like yoga without doing any work. Thai massage is more energising than other forms of massage. It is also reduces stress and improves flexibility and range of motion.  Hot Stone Massage Heated, smooth stones, usually made of basalt or wood, are placed on certain points on the body to warm and loosen tight muscles and balance energy centers in the body, and prepare muscles for massage. A massage therapist will usually also hold stones and massage with them by applying gentle pressure with them, as well as deeper pressure to really work on knots and areas of tension. The warmth is comforting and relaxing. Cold stones can also be used, most commonly around eyes to reduce puffiness. |
| | |
WOULD YOU LIKE A MASSAGE FOR A FIVER?!?
Last week I was fortunate enough to train in Hydrotherm massage, which we'll soon be introducing at Seckford Hall spa. It's basically a massage on a warm water cushion, which hugs and supports you and helps ease your muscles and allow for a deeper massage. All massages are done supine (facing up) yet we still manage to massage your back - you have to try it to believe it! I am currently looking for case studies to practise this full-body massage technique on over the next 4 weeks. Go on, treat yourself....
***SPECIAL OFFER*** It's usually £65 but I'm offering it for a bargain £5!!! And it'll give you an opportunity to check out the beautiful Seckford Hall spa.
So whether you feel in need of a massage or not - and quite frankly who doesn't? - remember to take the time out and go for one now and then, because your mind and body will thank you for it!
Laura x
Laura x
