therapeutic massage

FAQs

What kind of massage is it?

Raynor deep tissue massage therapy is a technique that works with key ‘bands of tension’ that link different areas of the body. It is an individualised treatment that provides a systematic release of stored tension, which can be both physical and emotional.

I work with seasonal aromatherapy oil blends to best support your relaxation and healing.

Who is this massage helpful for?

Massage is restorative for an incredibly broad range of people, as it stimulates the body’s own healing mechanisms and equilibrium through the release of tension. The Raynor technique allows me to adapt the practice to suit individual needs and respond specifically to the areas of the body where I identify tension.

I’ve found that it is particularly helpful for anyone looking to sleep better or to feel less fatigue, heaviness or anxiety. It’s also effective at strengthening the flexibility and recovery of muscles, especially when they’ve been worked hard.

Clients under 18 are welcome, accompanied by a parent or guardian. When treating senior clients, sessions are limited to 30 minutes and usually in a seated or side lying position. I work very gently focussing on the anchor points (the hands and the feet) to stimulate flow throughout the body.

What is the two hour Deep Listening session like?

Nourishing and expansive. Our bodies carry such wisdom, often they just need the right space in which to be heard. In these sessions we have time to first explore your body’s story in a gentle, meditative space. Then we address what needs tending to through a 90 minute deep tissue massage treatment. We close with space to reflect together, so that you can step forward with clarity and curiosity.

Clients have told me that the session exceeded their expectations, and love the reflexology and facial massage included in the longer treatment. Over the 90 minutes they felt their mind and muscles enter a significantly deeper state of relaxation and receptivity.

As one client put it, “If you limit it to an hour it feels like another task in the day, giving myself this space allows me to fully relax” - AG

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How do you use aromatherapy?

I offer clients a choice of two oil blends which use specific essential oils to stimulate different responses from the mind and body and support healing. Clients smell each blenda and choose which one they instinctively feel they need that day. I will check if you have any allergies to essential oils, as I can use a hypoallergenic alternative. With regular clients (fortnightly / monthly) I make a personalised blend that focuses the aromatherapy to address their symptoms and work with their scent preference.

Who is this massage not suitable for?

Massage is not suitable for anyone who has had surgery within 3 months, has DVT, a contagious skin condition, or who is receiving chemotherapy. Sprained tissue and broken bones need time to heal before massage treatment. Your doctor can tell you when you’re ready, at which point I’d be delighted to support your recovery back to full strength.

Massage activates the body’s detox process, so it’s best to reschedule if you have a cold, a hangover or plan to drink that evening - as your body is already working hard enough clearing those toxins.

What should I wear?

You can wear whatever you’re comfortable in. As I use aromatherapy oils, clients usually take off clothing, leaving their pants/briefs on, so that I can work directly on the skin. If you wear a bra, it’s helpful to take this off if you’d like me to work the muscles of the back. At all times towels cover the areas I’m not directly working on, keeping you warm and comfortable.

What happens when I arrive?

If you’re a new client, you’ll fill out a simple medical consent form. We’ll discuss what you’re hoping to get out of the session and I’ll explain the process, answering any questions you might have. I’ll then leave you to undress and get comfy on the massage table, covering yourself in the towels. I will knock and come back into the room whenever you’re ready to begin the massage.

Where do I go for my appointment?

Come to YogaPoint, 122 Dalberg Road -
15-20 minutes walk from Brixton underground,
10-15 minutes walk from Herne Hill Station, the Sunday farmer’s market and Brockwell Park. Take a stroll and see if you can find the 600 year old oak tree.

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Or come to the West London Buddhist Centre, 45a Porchester Rd -
5 minutes walk from Royal Oak underground,
10-15 minutes from Bayswater, Paddington and Queensway underground, and the famous Kensington Gardens.