Why book a massage?
There are many good reasons why massage, in some form or other, is part of every human culture across the planet. It can help soothe aching, stiff muscles; it can lift people’s moods; it can help to alleviate chronic levels of stress; it can deliver nourishing touch; and can make us feel the centre of attention for an hour or more.
You can think of massage as a form of medicine.
Better moods and alleivates stress: relaxation and the opportunity to unwind is one of the most common reasons to book a massage, and there’s good reason. Studies have repeatedly shown how regular massage reduces the levels of cortisol (a stress-related hormone) in the body and boosts serotonin and dopamine, giving feelings of well being. It also reduces the symptoms of anxiety.
Eases pain and improves flexibility: top athletes regularly use massage before and after events because it reduces the effects of high levels of exertion. But everyone can benefit, not just elite athletes. Stiff shoulders and necks from sitting at desks all day can lead to chronic headaches if not dealt with, which massage can help with. Massage can loosen joints and muscles that have lost flexibility or that hurt to move. In 2011, a study in the Annals of Internal Medicine concluded that ten weeks of massage treatment reduced lower back pain more than medication or exercise, that the effects lasted for up to six months AND that relaxation massage was as effective as deep tissue massage.
Improves sleep: there’s no shame in falling asleep while having a massage. It’s a compliment to your therapist. But there’s a good reason it happens. Studies have found that massage can reduce sleep disturbance because of its impact on the delta waves linked with deep sleep. The International Journal of Neuroscience, in 1998, found that following a course of massage therapy, patients suffering from migraines reported fewer distress symptoms, less pain, more headache-free days and fewer sleep disturbances.
Boosts the immune system and improves skin condition: as if all that wasn’t enough, a 2010 study in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine concluded that a 45-minute massage can increase the number of white blood cells that help defend the body from disease. The improved blood circulation may also lead to enhanced organ function, which makes you feel generally brighter and happier. Massage also increases blood flow and encourages lymphatic drainage (which takes toxins out and away from cells), which is why regular treatment may add vitality to your skin.
Everyone’s doing it: massage is becoming hugely popular. As well as indulging in a spot of pampering while on holiday, people book couples massage, sports massage, foot massage, head massage, they visit spas for a day or book a visit from a qualified massage therapist who will visit their home and bring everything to them. A 2015 Mintel Market Research Report showed that over 30% of UK adults had had a massage treatment, and of the rest 37% were seriously interested in having a treatment.
How far do you travel?
I travel up to around twenty miles from my base near Ripon. The distance is a little flexible, because it’s more based on allowing enough time to be able to travel between clients without being late, so if you’re on major roads all the way then I might be able to travel a little further, if there’s no easy direct route then it might be less. This map gives you a rough idea of the area in which I will work. If you’re unsure, then book a treatment and let me judge the journey.
Why choose a mobile massage service and why choose Marmion Massage?
Very convenient for busy people, you save time because I come to you!
You don’t feel rushed to make way for the next client using the treatment room.
Every session will be tailored to your specific needs on that day.
You can relax straight after the massage because you do not have to drive anywhere.
For those dealing with serious injuries or mobility issues, having a massage therapist come to you might be the only way to experience the benefits of massage.
Evening and weekend appointments are available so you don’t need to take time off work.
It is more relaxing for you to have a massage in your home, because you control the space.
You don't need to worry about parking, traffic, public transport and you save money on petrol.
If you are sleepy after your massage, you can relax and go to sleep straight after.
You can choose your own music, although I do offer relaxing music too.
What can I expect from my first massage?
Upon arrival, I will set up my table and working area in the space you have chosen. This will take about 15 minutes. I will bring all equipment and oils needed. Before your first treatment I will run through the consultation form you will have (hopefully) completed during your booking process, discussing with you any areas of concern or discomfort, any health concerns or conditions, allergies and recent surgery. It is important to list all health concerns and medications so that I can adapt the session to your specific needs without doing any harm. It will also ensure you recieve the most beneficial massage for your body.
This is the perfect opportunity for you to ask all the questions you might have. I shall explain how the treatment will progress, so you know the order in which I will work around your body and when I will be asking you to turn over. So no surprises.
What happens during a massage?
After the initial consultation, I will leave the room, giving you as long as you need to get ready and settle on the table under the towels. It is normal to undress to underwear for a full massage, but you should only undress to the level you are comfortable, so please do not hesitate to discuss this with me, all treatments can always be adapted. Once confirming it is ok to do so, I will re-enter the room and begin the treatment. You will always be covered by plenty of towels and blankets, except the area that is being worked on, to ensure you are feeling comfortable, secure and modest.
If I need you to adjust your position, I will either gently move you or will ask you to move what is needed. Of course you can change your position at anytime to make yourself more comfortable.
How long will the massage last?
When you book an hour’s massage in a spa, you will likely only receive 50 minutes of treatment, if you’re lucky, because the consultation and preparation are included in your hour. When you book a 45 or 75 minute massage with me, you are massaged for 45 or 75 minutes. Setting up, consultation and packing everything down do not count as part of your treatment time.
Can I talk during my massage?
I will check in with you regularly as the treatment progresses, to ensure that you’re happy with the pressure I’m using and I’m working on the right spot. During the massage you are, of course, free to talk at any point; alternatively, if you prefer to keep quiet then that's fine as well! Whatever is the most relaxing for you. After all, it is your massage!
I will bring some relaxing instrumental music that can be quietly playing in the background, which helps many people to relax further. Of course, if you prefer, treatments can be carried out in silence, or you can provide music of your own choosing – we will discuss all the options before we start.
During the treatment, please do not hesitate to let me know if something isn't quite right. For example, the pressure (lighter or deeper), if you are too warm/cold, uncomfortable, the room is too bright, or even if the music is irritating you - let me know!
What should I wear to my massage?
Wear your everyday clothes but preferably something comfy that will be easy to take off when getting onto the table. For a full massage, it’s usual to be undressed to underwear when on the table in order for me to work most effectively on certain areas, such as the back and legs, but you will always be covered by plenty of towels and blankets to protect your modesty and keep you warm, with only the specific area being worked upon being uncovered.
If you are not comfortable with this please let me know and we can always work around it.
Do I need to provide anything?
Nothing! I will bring everything needed.
You just provide yourself, a quiet area for the massage with enough space for the table or chair and for me to walk around (roughly 10’ x 6’) and a glass of water for yourself after the treatment. I will bring all the towels, blankets, oils etc needed to ensure you have a hassle -free experience. Please try to have some relaxation time prior to the massage and afterwards. One of the luxuries of having the treatment in your own home is that you don’t need to jump into a car and traffic straight away, so make the most of it.
How often should I have a massage?
It really does depend on what you are looking for. If you are looking for a relaxation massage then every 3-5 weeks may be fine for you. The average for my clients is once each calendar month. However, if you are looking to address a specific problem then more frequent appointments may be beneficial. After the initial treatment, once I have had a chance to evaluate your body's tissues/muscles, I will be better able to advise you on the frequency I recommend for you personally.
How will I feel after my massage?
Most people feel very relaxed. Some people experience a significant reduction, or complete freedom, from an ache or pain. Many people feel slightly slowed down for a short period but then notice an increase in energy and productivity. If you receive a deep tissue massage you may be sore the next day - a hot bath/shower can help to ease this soreness. (Very much like a good workout at the gym!)
Very occasionally, it’s possible to experience what is known as a 'healing crisis' around 24/48 hours after a massage treatment. This is where the body begins its self-healing process and elimination of toxins. You may experience symptoms such as:
• A drop in body temperature
• Tiredness
• Deep sleep or difficulty sleeping and vivid dreams
• Irritability
• An increase in perspiration
• Spots
• Cold/flu-like symptoms
• An increase in urination
• An increase in bowel movements
• Wind
• An Increase in appetite
• Nausea
• Changes in mood
• An increase in joint or muscle pain
• Headaches
It's nothing to worry about! Not everyone will experience these symptoms, in fact it’s quite rare and most people don’t experience any of them at all, it mainly depends on the level of toxins and your energy levels at the time. To help you through any 'healing crisis' please ensure you drink plenty of water, sleep, and eat a healthy and balanced diet. Always feel free to speak to me with any concerns.