therapeutic massage

FAQs

What kind of massage is it?

I offer highly personalised massages that leave my clients feeling deeply held and listened to. With my toolbox of techniques from years of learning and practice, we work together to create the conditions for your body to let go of what it no longer needs to hold. The session uses:

• deep tissue techniques - using gentle strength to systematically release tension stored in our muscles and fascia

• holistic approach - recognising the powerful mind-body connection and the healing potential of space to listen deeply to our own body’s wisdom

• aromatherapy oil blends - seasonal blends to best support your relaxation

How often should I get a massage?

It depends on what you’re goal is. Based on my experience with long-term clients, I recommend:

• weekly or fortnightly x 4-6 sessions - best for focusing on a persistent issue or supporting you through a challenging time

• monthly - best for maintenance and injury prevention

• bimonthly or seasonally - best for anchoring and resetting. I’ve loved learning how some of my clients combine a Deep Listening session with a visit to one of the nearby parks to journal and/or observe the changing seasons within and without. A simple way to create a mini ‘retreat’ for yourself.

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. Over years of practice I’ve built a toolbox of techniques that allows me to adapt to suit individual needs and respond specifically to the areas of the body where I identify tension, which can be physical and emotional.

I’ve found that massage 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, conversational space and for you to set an intention if you wish. 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 contentment.

Gift certificates are available now.

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 blend 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.

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.

If you know you are or think you could be pregnant, we’ll wait until your second trimester for a nourishing pregnancy massage.

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

For appointments at Maslow’s, Soho head to 1 Warwick Street, W1B 5LR, 5/10 minutes from Oxford Circus, Piccadilly Circus and Tottenham Court Road underground stations and and a 10 minute stroll from Green Park with its 300 year old Plane Trees. Say hello at the very friendly reception and they’ll tell you which floor to head to. Your portal to rest and retreat whilst in the heart of London’s West End.