Alexander

Grapeseed, almond, and coconut oil (or a mix) as a carrier with selected essential oils.

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I tend to use grapeseed and almond oil with a few drops of essential oils, such as lavender or sandalwood to help you relax, on the body as it is easily absorbed to leave the skin feeling soft and supple. For feet I use coconut oil with tea tree oil for their antimicrobial properties. However, I can use other combinations if you have a preference and we will discuss this as part of your first session.

A Raynor deep tissue massage is a full body treatment with extra attention on hands, feet and head; although time restraints may mean that we prioritise certain parts over others. Only the area to be worked on will be uncovered, and then covered up again before moving on to the next. Breasts are not massaged in a Raynor deep tissue massage. Abdomen and glutes can be massaged through the drapes/blanket.

No, it is not painful... actual pain is avoided in Raynor deep tissue massage. In fact, pain just causes more tension, which is what we are trying to eliminate. However, I must point out that this is not like a typical gentle spa massage. Where you have tension, you have a build up of lactic acid and other toxins that cause inflammation and discomfort. These areas are obviously going to be tender when massaged. I will discuss levels of pressure and work within your personal tolerance range. With each session you will find that the discomfort decreases and your tolerance to pressure increases as you heal.

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There are also acupressure and reflexology points that are targeted to help bring about relaxation of tension along their associated meridian lines, which is why treatment for pain in one area will also include pressure points on the extremities (head, hands and feet). This is so that we don't overwork an area that is already sore. For this to work, there only needs to be a moderate level of discomfort based on your thresholds. Simply put, we work at a pace that is acceptable to you.

Yes. All I ask is that they sit quietly and observe without distracting us. If you are coming to The Practice Rooms, They must stay in the room with us at all times (except when we are outside with me while you are getting changed).

To start with, we will have an exploratory conversation so that I can check for contraindications, that would exclude certain treatments or specific areas of your body, in order to determine the best treatment options for you. Then we can discuss those options and I can address any of your concerns. The remainder of the time will be your first treatment which will be tailored around your current health issues. As I massage you I will be feeling for tension in order to remove it. Communication between us is important for you to get the most benefit, but that will develop and improve as we get to know each other.

Yes, an effective version of Raynor massage can be performed through loose clothing or drapings (a towel or blanket).

All boundaries you set will be respected. You can stipulate these before and during the massage session.

Everybody is different, so it is impossible to say. Mild discomfort could make a full recovery after the first treatment or so, but severe discomfort may take several sessions to bring it to a more tolerable level, and as some chronic conditions may be because of a lifestyle or pathology that can't be changed in the short term, treatment may need to be ongoing. I will teach you some coping strategies for between sessions. And once we have reduced any discomfort to a more manageable level, it becomes more like an aromatherapy massage. This is more like a typical spa massage with the added benefit of some maintenance  deep tissue work where and when needed. This can be as often or infrequent as you like.

That is so variable. Some people feel elated and say they walk out on a high, feeling lighter and full of energy, but others feel sleepy and go home to have the best sleep they've had in ages. It is also not unusual to feel a bit sore the day after, like you've had a gym workout, but it will pass relatively quickly and the benefits outweigh any mild discomfort. If this does happen, please remember to drink plenty of water while avoiding caffeine and alcohol for the next day or two, as this will help.

Simply put, whatever makes you feel comfortable...

Please remove jewellery and hair accessories. You can keep your underwear on if you prefer. You can also wear a bra if you feel more comfortable, but without is better or at least undo the straps to allow me to massage your back more easily. I will leave the room for you to get undressed and lay face down on the massage table. There will be fresh drapings to cover yourself with. I will knock the door and open it a discrete amount to check that you are ready before coming back in.

Yes, water is your friend, be clean and hydrated. No need to overdo it, but be sure to drink plenty of water the day before, preferably avoiding alcohol. Don't overhydrate on the day, just before the treatment, or you will be uncomfortable, but have a drink right after to help remove the toxins that are released during the massage. Staying hydrated for the next 24 hours is also highly advisable.

As tension is released, you will become more aware of other sensations. In Eastern philosophy, it is believed that energy (Chi) that was blocked will be free to flow again. You may feel tingling in various areas, especially the hands, legs and stomach. This is quite normal and nothing to be concerned about, the sensations will be transient and are an indication that you are responding to the treatment . Some tension is related to emotional trauma, be it from a single event or built up from multiple micro traumas. This can be released in many different ways including tears, laughter and anger. If you feel like having a good cry, fit of giggles or a rant... go ahead, let it out. The therapy room is a safe place. 

Where do I begin... YES, for a start.

There are so many advantages to having a regular deep tissue massage as part of your training. Studies show a 30% reduction of DOMS (delayed onset of muscle soreness). Shorter recovery time, breakdown of scar tissue, reduction of tissue adhesions, increased flexibility (especially with assisted stretching), lower risk of injury, and the list goes on... come and see me early on in your training, don't wait for an injury.