What is Massage?

Massage is probably the oldest method of healing, with Hippocrates referencing it in one of his medical texts. Archaeological evidence of the practice of massage has also been found in many ancient civilisations such as China, India, Egypt, Roma and Greece. 

The most common form of massage in the UK is often referred to as Swedish Massage. This massage technique, which in most other countries is named Classic Massage, was thought to have been invented by the Swede Pehr Henrik Ling, hence the name Swedish Massage.

Common to all types of massage is the use of pressure, rubbing, holding, vibration, rocking, friction and compression to relieve discomfort, pain or tiredness in the muscular structure and soft tissues. The massage therapist most commonly use hands to deliver the treatment, but other parts of the therapist's body can also be used such as forearms, elbows or feet. 

How does Massage work?

Apart from being wonderfully relaxing and soothing, massage will affect the overall health and well-being of the receiver.

By increasing the lymphatic and blood circulation, massage helps to enhance the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the muscle cells and to eliminate waste products, decrease fluid retention and swelling. 

Massage relaxes the muscles, thus relieving nerve compression and pain as well as helping the body functions more efficiently. Releasing the superficial muscles, which are easily reached by the therapist, can also release tension in the deep, hard to reach, underlying muscles. 

Relieving muscle and nerve pain can also relieve associated problems which are not directly related to the muscles, resulting in an overall improved state of well-being.

Why do people have Massage treatments?

Massage means different things to different people. For some it is a special treat to be savoured a few times a year. For others it becomes an essential part of their week, a relaxation ritual which helps them switch off and cope with the stresses of a high flying career or an exhausting weekly schedule. Others still, use massage as a healing tool to relieve back, muscle or joint pain if and when it occurs. 

How does Massage feel?

Massage has been around since ancient times for one reason. It feels wonderful. A warm, soothing and caring touch invites you to let go and just relax. Having a massage treatment can feel like being carried into another world filled with warmth and soothing energies. 

However, massage can also be used to remedy back or neck pain and muscle stiffness. In this case the therapist will apply much deeper pressure, to provide a deep release to the affected muscles. There may be some discomfort during a deep tissue massage, but the benefits felt afterwards, greatly outweigh any discomfort.

Holistic or Swedish Massage 30 min

Holistic or Swedish Massage  1 hour

Holistic or Swedish Massage  1 hour 30 min

Deep Tissue Massage 30 min

Deep Tissue Massage 1 hour

Deep Tissue Massage 1 hour 30 min

Back Neck and Shoulder Massage 30 min

Back Neck and Shoulder Massage 60 min

Melt Down Massage 1 hour

To book your appointment:

Contact Kata on 07761 586878 or email postmaster@holisticlight.co.uk or book online

Contact Mariana on 07834 853 075 or info@mariana-arando-therapies.com

Contact Milena directly on 07860867897 or info@mktherapies.com or book online

A scalp massage is a head massage designed to relax the mind and encourage circulation. Many times, tension is felt within the head and neck, so scalp massages can be very effective as a stress reducer. Warm oil is massaged throughout the scalp, working to relax tight muscles in the temple and neck regions. Offer a variety of benefits, which may include stress relief, a reduction in headaches and migraines, and a boost in blood flow. The increase in blood flow aids in feeding and strengthening the hair follicles, which may cause the hair to grow at a faster rate, as well as aid in the fight to avoid hair loss.

Head Massage 30 min

To book an appointment contact Kata on 07761 586878 or email postmaster@holisticlight.co.uk or book online

Tuina (pronounced 'twee-nah') is a form of Chinese therapeutic massage. 'Tui' meaning to push and 'Na' to grasp.

Tuina is a very important component of Chinese medicine alongside acupuncture and herbal prescription. However, Tuina can be a complete healing system in itself as not only does it work on muscle groups, joints, sites of pain and poor circulation, but it works the same meridians and points used in acupuncture and employs the same basic theory as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): "Injury or disease causes blockages in the channels of the body. Blockages cause pain."

In China, Tuina practitioners treat conditions that, in the West, would be treated by osteopaths, chiropractors and physiotherapists or with drugs. Today it has become very advanced in its treatment for many diseases, used in many hospitals in China, it has become the frontline of healthcare, whereas in the West many problems tend to get treated only at a chronic stage. Therefore Tuina can and should also be used as a preventative form of treatment to maintain health and prevent accumulation of stress, disease and injury.

What can Tuina treat?

Tuina massage offers a wide range of benefits, both physiological as well as psychological, increasing well-being and the feeling of euphoria. Tuina speeds up the bodies ability to heal it self. Tuina massage can be used for a variety of purposes, from general massage to sports injuries. It can be used to treat a variety of ailments:

• Neck pain and Frozen Shoulder

• Headache, Migraine

• Low energy, Poor circulation

• Back pain, Sciatica

• Digestive Disorders and Stress

• Rheumatism, Arthritis

• Joint pain or Moving pain

• Ankle or Wrist pain

• Sports injuries

• And much more....

What can I expect from Tuina?

Tuina is performed over your clothed body. Patients sit on a chair or lie on a couch. Tuina is a medical treatment and as with all TCM modalities, a case history and diagnosis will be done prior to treatment. Some techniques performed may be familiar to you. The massage is usually done using gentle to quite firm pressure using palms, thumbs, fingers, and elbows, added to this are various stretches. It can be more vigorous than other forms of massage. As with other body therapies you may leave a little sore, light-headed or supercharged after your treatment, but mostly patients always feel better after Tuina. Ointments, herbal compresses and cupping maybe applied as an additional benefit to your personalised treatment.

Tui Na 1 hour

Contact Mariana 07834 853 075 or info@mariana-arando-therapies.com

The Vodder Method of Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a specialised form of massage that influences the direction and speed of lymphatic flow using light, rhythmical and precise hand movements and pressure. The lymphatic system helps destroy pathogens and filters waste, including medications and anaesthetics. It also helps to deliver nutrients, oxygen and hormones to the tissues of the body.

A sluggish lymphatic system increases the chance of chronic illness and disease. Scientific studies have proven that the immune system is supported and even boosted as a result of receiving regular MLD treatments. MLD is also effective in countering the body’s natural inflammatory response following soft tissue trauma such as sprains, fractures, orthopaedic surgery and orthodontal surgery. If received in a timely manner, MLD can dramatically shorten the route to recovery. Among its many other benefits, MLD induces a deep state of relaxation making it great for hypertension and constipation.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage  1 hr 

Contact Mariana 07834 853 075 or info@mariana-arando-therapies.com

Different forms of bare footed massage are performed all over the world and have been practised for thousands of years. “Ashi” means foot and “atsu” means pressure in Japanese. Ashiatsu has its origins in India where bare footed technique is called Chavutti Thirummal. In USA Ashiatsu has become very popular thanks to R. Hardee, who westernised this treatment and adopted it for use on a traditional massage table and with the help of overhead bars. 

The Ashiatsu BareSole Massage uses deep compression effleurage strokes applied with the therapist’s feet, utilising gravity's force in gliding motions. It provides deep relaxation while stimulating the circulatory and lymphatic systems of the body.

This massage is very popular with people who enjoy deep tissue massage as well as athletes and individuals with thick musculature.Treatment helps relieve muscle pain, increases range of motion and flexibility and creates a state of well-being. Deep compression feels good, not painful and has many benefits:

• Muscles are elongated and broadened at the same time

• The treatment elongates the spine and improves posture

• Deep pressure can be applied over a bigger surface and maintained for longer

• Increased blood circulation

• Brings on deep relaxation!

What to expect with Ashiatsu BareSole Massage

When having BareSole Massage, it is recommended to remove clothing and garments and leave underwear only. Proper draping to ensure your privacy is guaranteed, and will be utilised at all times during your session. The therapist will only uncover the areas she is working on.

In the massage room, you will see two long ropes running parallel above the floor mattress. These are used by the therapist to maintain control of balance and pressure during your session. The pressure can be easily adjusted for your comfort and benefit.

Ashiatsu 1 hour

Ashiatsu 1 hour 15  mins

Ashiatsu 1 hour 30 mins

Ashiatsu 2 hours

To book an appointment contact Milena directly on 07860 867 897 or book online.

This treatment is a five thousand years old technique and comes from the Far East and was also used in ancient Rome. Hot Stone Massage uses smooth basalt stones, heated to the right temperature. When glided over the muscle these stones help release tensions quickly and allows the therapist get to the deeper laid muscles.

Hot stone massage is gentle and therefore suited for those who do not like the firm strokes of therapeutic sports massage. Light massage strokes combined with the heat of smooth stones help relieve tensions and stress, and it clears toxins and unblocks the energy channels

Benefits of hot stone massage include:

• Encourages deep relaxation

• Alleviates stress

• Relieves tension, stiffness and knots

• Decreases muscle tightness and helps soothe tired muscles

• Improves circulation of blood and lymph

Hot Stone Full Body Massage 60 min

Hot Stone Full Body Massage 90 min

Contact Milena directly on 07860 867 897 or book online.

Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils extracted from flowers and plants combined with massage to improve health and wellbeing. The goal is to relax the entire body with classic massage techniques, while using a specially formulated oil blend for additional health benefits. A personal consultation will ensure that you receive a unique treatment to suit your specific needs. You can choose from the following: Relax pre-blended massage oil; Muscle Ease pre-blended massage oil; Energise pre-blended massage oil or Detox pre-blended massage oil.

Benefits of aromatherapy massage include:

• Encourages deep relaxation

• Alleviates stress

• Relieves tension, stiffness and knots

• Decreases muscle tightness and helps soothe tired muscles

• Improves circulation of blood and lymph

Aromatherapy massage 30 min

Aromatherapy Massage 60min

Aromatherapy Massage 90 min

Back, Neck and Shoulder Massage with Warm Lava Shells

Lava shells are the world’s first self-heating massage tools. Back, neck and shoulder massage with lava shells offers an idyllic treatment, combining the warmth of the shells with deeply relaxing massage techniques – creating a sense of balance to the entire body and mind. You will fall into a state of relaxation and calm thanks to the comfortable warming treatment. This massage is greatly effective for anyone with tense muscles, as the heat from the lava shells will gently relax and smooth away knots. The shells glide over the back to warm and relax the muscles. The focus then moves on to the specific massage techniques to target tension areas, easing stress and stiffness. 

Benefits of back, neck and shoulder massage with lava shells include:

• Encourages deep relaxation

• Alleviates stress

• Loosens stuck muscle fibres

• Soothes general back aches and pains

• Improves circulation of blood and lymph

Back, Neck and Shoulder Lava Shell Massage 30 min

Pregnancy is a very special time in every woman’s life, and body goes through many physical, physiological and emotional changes. For many it’s a happy time, for some changes in the body and changed posture can cause back pain and other aches.

Regular massage during pregnancy has been shown to reduce back pain, improve quality of sleep, reduce swelling in the limbs, improve circulation, improve mood and reduce anxiety. Studies conducted reveal that women who regularly had massage in the last trimester had significantly shorter labour and fewer complications.

Pregnancy massage can be done on a regular massage table or on the floor mat, with support cushions to keep you safe and comfortable. Our practitioners are qualified to treat pregnant ladies throughout the whole pregnancy and your every session will be designed special for you following initial consultation. Some conditions like Pelvic Girdle Pain, or Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction require careful consideration and positioning.

Posture advice and exercise may be given after your massage. It’s more than just a relaxing experience. Massage, acupressure and gentle joint mobilisation can really help ease those aches and pains, but also find the time to connect with your body and the new life growing inside you!

Pregnancy massage 1 hour

Pregnancy massage 1 hour 15 min

Pregnancy massage 1 hour 30 min

To book your appointment:

Contact Milena on 07860 867 897 or info@mktherapies.com or book online.

Foot massage is great for tied feet, it helps to improve circulation and movement of the lymphatic system in the feet and lower legs. It stimulates muscles, reduces tension and often eases pain and while improving flexibility. This is a perfect treatment for anyone who spends long hours on their feet or suffers from stress and anxiety. You will leave the session feeling relaxed, energised and invigorated.

Benefits of foot massage include:

• Encourages deep relaxation

• Improves circulation and lymph flow

• Helps eliminate harmful toxins from the body

• Relieves fatigue

• Increases energy

• Promotes restful sleep

Foot massage 30 min

To schedule an appointment contact Kata on 07761 586878 or email postmaster@holisticlight.co.uk or book online

Thai massage is best for people who want a more active form of massage and want to reduce and relieve pain and stress. Thai massage is more active than other forms of massage, and the therapist will stretch your body in addition to providing a massage.

How is a thai massage performed?

Thai massage is usually performed over loose fitting clothes where you will be put through a series of stretches covering the entire body. The therapist uses her fingers, palms, elbows, knees, her whole body as ballast. Unlike Swedish massage, there is a lot of interaction between the therapist and the receiver. Muscles are gradually loosened and joints limbered through strategic pressure and movement. Your therapist will use her whole body to easy you into a series of elongating stretches, which can often resemble familiar yoga positions, hence the reason why Thai massage is sometimes referred to as “lazy man’s yoga”

sports massage/injury rehab

Sports massage involves the manipulation of soft tissue to benefit a person who practises regular physical activity. Soft tissue is connective tissue that has not hardened into bone and cartilage. This includes skin, muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia. Sports massage is designed to assist in correcting problems in the soft tissue, caused by repetitive and strenuous physical activity as well as trauma. Sports massage, prior to and after exercise, may enhance performance, aid recovery and prevent injury.

Dee Terret is a highly experienced Sports Massage Therapist and injury specialist with over 18 years experience in her field. A-Listers and Top League football players have turned to her for years to get back on their feet, and now she's exclusively available to clients at Utopia.

Ayurveda, translates as the Science of Life (Ayur means Life, Veda means science or knowledge).  It is a complete and traditional system of medicine and healing modality which originated in India. The emphasis in Ayurveda is on prevention of disease and illness through correct knowledge and practise of Dinacharya (daily routine) and Ritucharya (Seasonal routine) as well as knowledge of one’s own Prakruti (unique inherent constitution) and how to maintain its balance. Ayurveda prescribes herbal remedies, external body treatments, diet and lifestyle advice and yoga and meditation, all of which are designed to address the root cause of presenting imbalances in order to restore equilibrium.

Ayurvedic Abhyanga Massage is a massage that combines pressure on lymphatic, energetic and chakra points. Abhyanga is the union of the body with hot oil, applying a series of manual movements, rhythms, intensities, postures. The fundamental concept is to prevent. The treatment assists with revitalising the whole body, reducing stress and mental tension, alleviating aches and pains and improving muscle tone and flexibility of the joints. As a whole-body treatment, it is designed to relax the body and mind, releasing blockages to the free flow of energy or prana, in order to restore harmonious functioning to all of the body systems.

What is Indian Head Massage?

Indian head massage has been practised in India for thousands of years, with references to the method in Ayurvedic texts. Indian women used it to help keep their hair in good condition, often using various herbs and oils for added benefits. Invented by women, the therapy later spread to barber shops in India, who would use Indian head massage as part of their service. Indian head massage is now widely available both in India and in the UK.

How does Indian Head Massage work?

Indian Head massage uses vigorous massage strokes to release tension and increase blood flow to the scalp and upper body. The hair follicles receive more nutrients and oxygen thus improving the overall condition of the hair. Most people accumulate stress in the neck, upper back, upper arms and face, which is why headaches, neck and upper back problems are so common in our society. Indian head massage targets all of these areas to release tension and blockages, while also incorporating the use of pressure points.

Why do people have Indian Head Massage treatments?

Indian head massage is a special treat after a stressful day. Of all the different types of massages, Indian head massage is especially beneficial for people living a hectic western lifestyle. With consecutive treatments one should be able to see a significant and lasting improvement in unwanted shoulder and head tension.

How does Indian Head Massage feel?

An Indian head massage will feel energetic at times as well as soothing and relaxing. The initial strokes are vigorous, without being painful, and may feel foreign if you have only experienced Swedish massage before. However, the increase in blood flow will feel extremely energising afterwards. The Indian face massage feels soothing, not unlike a facial, but also incorporates pressure points into the massage routine. Indian head massage is an extremely enjoyable experience.

What can I expect during my Indian Head Massage treatment?

You will be lying down for the treatment as this aids in deep relaxation, with a choice of using warm pure coconut oil or grape-seed oil for the treatment. First your upper back, neck and upper arms will be massaged, before moving on to the scalp (for the scalp massage, using oil is recommended but not a necessity). You will be asked to turn to lie on your back and the Indian Head Massage will then continue with focus on the scalp and face. After the massage you will be offered a hot towel wrap to finish of the treatment.