We have fact sheets available about the following therapies, they may be viewed onscreen or downloaded:
Back Neck & Shoulder Pain Relief PDF Version
Combination Massage PDF Version
Deep Tissue Massage PDF Version
Aromatherapy Massage PDF Version
The Alexander Technique PDF Version
Indian Head Massage PDF Version
We are delighted to be able to
offer our "Signature Massage" to clients. The Combination Massage
was developed in response to our client's needs and our desire to deliver
the most effective treatment.
At Bonne Santé all our therapists are highly trained and experienced.
During the course of their careers many skills have been learnt and practiced.
Frequently when visiting the center for a treatment clients may have several
and conflicting requirements. For example, they may be stressed and have a
particular muscular problem. Rather than offer an "off the shelf"
therapy such as a Swedish or an aromatherapy massage our therapists will discuss
with the client their needs tailor a massage to that particular treatment.
This may well be a Combination of a number of disciplines.
Elements that may be included are: Swedish, Aromatherapy, Deep Tissue, Holistic
Medical Massage for back, neck or shoulder pain, Scalp and Foot Massage, Hot
Stone Fusion and Lymphatic Drainage.
Combination Massage will begin with a brief discussion of what the client
is looking for during the treatment. This may anything from a serious pamper
to addressing any muscular problems. Our experienced therapists will draw
from all their skills and suggest a specific treatment for that session. This
will start with some gentle massage to warm up the muscles, progressing to
remedial/deep tissue work and ending up with a wind down period during which
relaxing therapies such as aromatherapy, foot/head massages are used.
This approach we believe is unique in Sussex. Our clients are finding this
method of massage very effective. This popular treatment is effective with
relief of symptoms associated with muscular tension and anxiety.
The Combination Massage is suitable for men and women of all ages. Because
of its flexibility it can be adapted to suit most peoples' needs.
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Aromatherapy uses the purest plant essence in the form of organic essential oils, which are extracts from various parts of plants, fruits, flowers, bark, roots, or resin. Essential oils contain various natural beneficial properties. Due to the diversity of essential oils, the range of benefits and effects of Aromatherapy treatments is wide ranging.
Many therapists will have a holistic approach to client consultation. This provides the information necessary to select the appropriate essential oils for the maximum therapeutic benefit. The selected essential oils are blended with a carrier/base massage oil to create a unique mix for each client's individual needs. This Aromatherapy blend is usually applied to the skin with traditional face/body massage.
Aromatherapy treatments have both physiological and psychological effects. The combination of massage and the medicinal and therapeutic qualities of the essential oils can soothe, revitalize, uplift the spirit, encourage positive thinking and boost the immune system enabling the body to heal itself.
Physiological Benefits
· Assist lymphatic drainage
· Induce a feeling of deep relaxation in the body
· Help to restore balance in the body
· Stimulate the body's natural immune system
· Increase the oxygen and nutrient supply to the tissues by increasing
the blood circulation
· Boost energy levels
·
Psychological Benefit
· Promote a general state of well-being
· Calm and soothe the mind
· Reduce nervous tension
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Hot Stone Fusion Massage is a popular, pampering and therapeutic treatment, described frequently as pure bliss. Heated stones are used to massage the body, providing a nurturing and enhanced therapeutic effect. The application increases the feeling of well-being by increasing cellular activity therefore increasing the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles. This enables the therapist to work deeply and effectively.
The stones are beautifully coloured, smooth basalt stones with a high iron content, enabling them to retain heat and cold. They are selected for their shape and for the even distribution of iron through the stone. The stones are applied at varying degrees of heat onto an oiled body, and the effect is similar to a combination of sauna and massage. The therapist will massage with some stones and position others on and around the body at various points to enhance the effect even further. Alternate hot and cold stone can be used to create a stimulating effect leaving the recipient refreshed and invigorated.
Hot Stone Fusion Massage takes the principles of traditional Hot Stone Massage one step further, combining Eastern and Western massage techniques in a flowing, creative experience.
Stones are heated in to varying
degrees of temperature (extremely pleasant to the feel) and the practitioner
will start by applying oil to the body. The stones are then introduced as
required for massage, and positioned on and around the body in order to the
increase the feeling comfort. Treatments times vary and your therapist will
be happy to discuss this further with you. Most treatments can be tailored
to suit the individual's needs
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Deep tissue massage is a form of bodywork that works on the physical, mental and emotional levels. It is designed to relieve pain caused by muscular tension and stress induced muscle discomfort.
The aim of the therapist is to work with the troubled tissues at a deeper level to relax, lengthen and release the chronic patterns of tension in the body. This will aid relaxation and restore comfort and harmony to the whole body.
On a subtle level the technique follows certain energy channels, the meridians, freeing long held traumas that are held in the tissues therefore releasing them.
Benefits include:
· Releases deep muscular
tension
· Realigns muscle and fascia
· Improves posture by breaking poor postural habits
· Releases emotional tension
· Helps relieve pain
· Clears energy pathways within the body
· Increases flexibility
· Increases vitality
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Sports Massage is the term applied to the use of massage for the specific benefit of participating in sports or exercise. It covers the management, manipulation and rehabilitation of the soft tissues of the body eg muscles, ligaments and tendons.
Sports massage should be tailored to each individual's needs to positively enhance ones ability to perform.
BENEFITS OF SPORTS MASSAGE
* Improve circulation & lymphatic
flow
* Assist in the removal of metabolic waste
* Sedate or stimulate nerve endings
* Increase or decrease muscle tone
* Increase or decrease muscle length
* Remodel scar tissue when required
* Assist in mental preparation for sporting participation
Sports massage can be beneficial at various stages of participation. For example:
* The conditioning / training
phase
* Pre competition
* Inter competition
* Post competition
* Post travel
* Injury prevention
* Injury recovery
Regardless of whether you exercise
or play sport to keep fit, or compete from club to international level, then
sports massage may be of benefit to you.
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Most Pregnant women experience pain and discomfort at this time. Both Thai Yoga Massage and Holistic Massage are safe and easily adapted to the needs of pregnancy, (after the 1st trimester), providing relief, support and a time of deep relaxation in a safe and supportive environment.
Benefits of massage in pregnancy
¨ Relieves aches and pains
¨ Helps to reduce muscular tension
¨ Promotes a better nights sleep
¨ Calming for baby and mother
¨ Helps to reduce swelling
¨ Helps manage nausea
¨ Increases the supply of oxygen to both you and baby
¨ Boosts the immune system of both mother and baby
HOLISTIC MASSAGE is a relaxing, therapeutic massage based on Swedish massage
techniques. Using base oils that are safe for pregnancy, it can be as gentle
or firm as required focusing on areas of need.
THAI MASSAGE works on energy lines with a massage of acupressure and gentle stretches unblocking and re balancing energy. It is given through light loose clothing and all stretches used are totally safe for pregnancy.
Both massages are given with the
recipient in laying on their sides and totally supported with pillows to ensure
maximum comfort and relaxation.
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WHAT IS REIKI?
Reiki (pronounced Ray-Key) means universal energy. It is an ancient Japanese method of healing which restores balance and harmony to the mind, body and spirit.
REIKI TREATMENT
You relax fully clothed on a treatment
couch or seated while the Reiki practitioner will place their hands lightly
on or around the major chakras (energy centers) of the body.
Energy is then released from the blocked areas, allowing it to flow more freely.
Many people experience a sensation of heat, tingling or warmth. The treatment
itself is relaxing, and you may feel calm and peaceful, or even energized!
Reiki is effective in the treatment
of;
· Stress
· Depression
· Anxiety
· PMT/Menstrual problems
· Headaches
· Back problems
· Respiratory problems
· Many more ailments
It's gentle, cleansing energy also promotes people to change habits and patterns they have formed in their lives.
Sessions last approximately one
and a half hours. It is recommended that a course of 3-5 sessions are taken
to really benefit from the Reiki.
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Like Acupuncture, shiatsu is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine, one of the oldest medicines in the world. Chinese medicine offers a profoundly wise understanding of the causes of disease (emotions, environment and diet).
It has studied the interconnections between mind and body as reflected in the meridian system for over 3000 years. Shiatsu uses the same knowledge of meridians and acupoints as acupuncture but uses nurturing touch instead of needles. Shiatsu is a meridian-based therapy and thus helps you make sense of your symptoms.
Shiatsu is not just about rubbing away muscular tension, it treats the meridians on which your tensions and weaknesses are situated. This helps you understand which aspects of your life are imbalanced and causing your symptoms. Each treatment is tailor made and seeks to address both tensions and weaknesses.
Shiatsu applies slow nurturing pressures on your weaker meridians in order to strengthen them. Areas of tension are dispersed with dynamic pressures, massage techniques and stretches. The proportion of slow and dynamic work varies according to your constitution and present needs. The chosen meridians may differ from one session to another as your energy repartition is constantly shifting. However the same ones often come back revealing more long-term patterns.
Shiatsu is a full body treatment. Most sessions involve work on the back, legs, arms, torso and neck, and will concentrate on the areas that need attention. Shiatsu is performed through the clothes in order to produce deeper effects. As the brain does not get distracted by skin sensations, it records the pressures on a much deeper level.
All manipulations are very gentle,
which makes it a very safe form of therapy. They include liberating stretches,
muscle release techniques like in sport massage, rocking and joint rotations.
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Thai Yoga Massage is an ancient form of massage originating over 2,500 years ago from Indian Hatha yoga traditions. Thai Yoga Massage helps the body maintain a free flow of energy by working to release blockages within the energy system. Working on energy lines with a massage of stretches and acupressure can break these blockages and balance the energy body. This in turn eliminates toxins, supports the immune system, helps to increase vitality and can relieve pain. Thai massage can increase flexibility, relieve muscle and joint stiffness, improve circulation and boost immunity. Thai Massage is a very effective therapy for a variety of conditions including back pain, sciatica, knee pain, and shoulder pain to name a few.
Thai massage is applied though
light clothing on a futon mattress. All the important energy lines are worked
whilst moving the body through sequences of gentle yoga based stretches. Bending,
kneading and acupressure techniques are applied with the therapist using thumbs,
hands, feet and elbows for a full body experience. Thai yoga massage is suitable
for most people irrespective of age, fitness or flexibility.
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The most important piece of equipment that you use in the day is not your computer, mobile phone or car its your body.
Yet very few people are really aware of how they use their body, the damage they do to themselves unnecessarily, or how they can improve their natural balance, poise and co-ordination.
The Alexander Technique is aimed at re-establishing your natural good use, so that instead of using too much tension in your body to do things, you are able to use just the appropriate amount.
Through a mixture of verbal explanation and hands on work your teacher will help you understand how you can help yourself to identify your tension patterns, and how you can prevent them.
With this process of re-educating, lessons in the Alexander Technique can help you prevent or alleviate conditions associated with undue tension or poor posture.
These include:
· Back Pain
· Joint problems
· Breathing disorders
· Stress related problems
And through this fun and interesting
approach, you learn how to
· Improve your overall posture
· Improve your natural co-ordination
· React differently to stressful situations
· Regain natural lightness of movement
· Reduce wear and tear on the joints
The Alexander Technique is a skill
for life, to be learnt, applied and used in all that you do, so that you have
real CHOICE in how you approach tasks and life, instead of being dictated
to be old habits.
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Hop ear candles are named after
the Native American tribe who first introduced this gentle therapy to the
West.
The Hopi Nation is renowned for its extensive knowledge of healing and spiritual
lifestyle. The translation of the word Hopi means "peaceful ones".
Ear candles are used widely throughout North America and Asia and although
the current treatment has come to us from the Hopi tribe, the use of ear candles
to treat ear problems has been known for centuries, having been used by the
Egyptians, Romans and Greeks.
WHAT IS A HOPI CAR CANDLE?
Ear candles are an ancient, mild
and natural therapy and have been used by Native American Indians for many
years.
The Hopi candle is not a candle as such, but a hollow tube made out of cotton
flax. To stiffen the flax, they are impregnated with extract of honey and
herb oils (in particular chamomile, sage and St Johns wort), the healing properties
of which have been known to the Hopi tribe for hundreds of years. The making
of the candles is a complex process and all genuine Hopi candles are made
in the traditional manner.
THE TREATMENT
The treatment is very gentle and
relaxing and may take up to an hour, depending on the condition being treated.
The candle is placed over the ear orifice and ignited. It is only allowed
to burn to within 4 inches of the end of the candle. As it burns it produces
a gentle local heat. The warm air combined with the oil and herbs soften the
wax and draw it into the base of the candle. The candle is then removed and
the ear and surrounding area is then massaged. The treatment is repeated on
the other ear and then a complete facial massage is carried out, paying particular
attention to the sinus areas.
WHAT CONDITIONS CAN EAR CANDLES HELP?
Ear candles can help with the treatment
of sinusitis, rhinitis, earwax, earache and irritation of the ears including
tinnitus. It is also suitable for the treatment of headaches and migraines.
It is not suitable for those with perforated eardrums, where grommets are
in place or those who may have an allergy to the ingredients. It is a safe
and gentle treatment for children.
The number of treatments depends on how long the candle takes to burn down.
Each treatment takes approximately 45 - 60 minutes and is very relaxing. It
is advisable to put a few drops of warm olive oil in each ear for three days
before treatment as this will help to soften the wax which will make it easier
to remove. On the day of the treatment, you will be advised to remove all
makeup and earrings.
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Back Neck & Shoulder Treatments
There can be few people who at some point in their lives have not had problems with their back, neck or shoulders. These problems may be manifested by various levels of pain or a loss of mobility.
Understanding the cause of the
problem is the key to proper treatment and this may be difficult to diagnose.
Problems in these areas may have multiple causes such as, stress, injury,
posture and other life style factors. Historically many conditions have gone
undiagnosed with doctors prescribing steroids, pain killers and possibly anti
depressants.
There is now available an alternative approach. Experienced therapists who
have been conducting deep tissue or sports massage are now being trained to
diagnose and treat back, neck and shoulder problems. This is a very advanced
form of therapy that is extremely effective and we are pleased to offer this
treatment.
Initially the client will undergo an assessment. This will explore the situation to determine possible causes. Life style factors will be examined as these may be influential. The therapist then has a number of natural alternatives to help resolve these problems. These include stretching techniques, manipulation, deep tissue massage, posture advice and exercises and to perform at home. One of the aims of the treatment is helping the client to manage of the problem on a day to day basis.
We have a very good record of reducing
or eliminating pain, improving mobility, posture and reducing stress. Please
give us a call to discuss your condition and to take advantage of the offer
of a free consultation for an assessment.
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Hypnosis is a state of altered conscious awareness. It is the concentration of the mind on a single idea to the exclusion of all other thoughts. When experiencing hypnosis you will be able to achieve extraordinary levels of physical and emotional relaxation.
It is a natural and receptive state of mind that happens to us daily, each time we read a captivating novel, float off into a daydream or become engrossed in a film we are in a natural state of hypnosis.
In a hypnotic state the subconscious and conscious parts of your mind can work on the same concept at the same time without conflict. Our fully qualified hypnotherapists use a combination of several techniques to compliment and enhance hypnosis to enable the treatment to become successful.
Some of the issues that can be treated with this way of working are:
Smoking Cessation
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Fears & Phobias
Confidence & Self Esteem
Depression
Weight Control & Eating Disorders
Stress & Anxiety
Public Speaking & Speech Difficulties
Pain Management
Drinking Related Problems
Research suggests that with many areas such as smoking cessation, eating problems and irritable bowel syndrome, hypnotherapy is the most effective treatment.
If you are new to hypnosis then it may be useful to provide some additional information:
You remain in control
at all times
You will not do or say anything against your will
You remain aware of what is happening
Guided by a qualified hypnotherapist the treatment completely safe
You will come out of hypnosis feeling wonderfully relaxed and fully refreshed
Many issues such as phobias and smoking can be addressed in a single session.
Eating and weight related problems can take two or three sessions and other
issues may need more time.
In order that your
particular issue can be addressed you are invited to attend a free introductory
session with one of our fully qualified hypnotherapists. This visit will last
typically 30 minutes during which you will be able to discuss your problem
in complete confidentiality, find out if hypnotherapy would be an appropriate
treatment and be given an indication of the number of visits required and
the likely cost.
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Foot reflexology is based on the principle that by massaging and applying pressure to parts of the feet known as reflex areas, other corresponding and connected areas of the body will feel the benefit. It is a holistic approach, which means that it works on the principle that the whole person must be treated and balanced. When the body is balanced, it has its own natural healing ability.
Reflexology is known to help with:
Stress, tension, blood circulation, balancing of hormones, expulsion of mucus,
aches and pains, indigestion, constipation and other digestive disorders,
migraines, poor memory and anxiety.
On the first visit, the therapist will have a preliminary consultation to determine the client's present and past health and life style. The actual treatment session will typically last for about 60 minutes and a course of treatment may be recommended depending on the clients needs.
Reflexology does not claim to cure, diagnose or prescribe and reactions during or after a treatment might include feeling relaxed, energized and alert. These reactions are, if anything, a positive sign that the reflexology treatment is working to balance your body.
HAND AND FACE REFLEXOLOGY
Hand reflexology is an excellent alternative for people with over-sensitive feet or that are infected or damaged in some way. It is equally effective just like foot reflexology in relieving stress and tension and balancing the body.
Face reflexology stimulates the nerves, muscles and tissues of the face and encourages the build-up of new tissue. It helps to improve the muscle tone and the result is a softer, glowing complexion. Using only hands and a light cream, the treatment incorporates precise stimulation of acupressure points, neurological points and body maps on the face.
Hand, face and foot reflexology
may be combined ensure that the client obtains the maximum benefit from the
treatment. Indian Head massage can be incorporated into the treatment if appropriate.
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Nutrition
HOW MANY SESSION WILL I NEED?
It is difficult to put a figure on how many appointments you may need as each
person is different and your condition / symptoms may influence the length
of treatment. In general, Nutrition often requires 2-3 sessions.
LIFESTYLE ADVICE
As part of the holistic approach you may be given advice regarding your current
lifestyle to improve your health and well being. Exercise or relaxation is
generally a key part of this improvement particularly for clients aiming to
reduce their weight.
WHY DOES IT COST MORE THAN OTHER
THERAPIES?
Nutrition is not a long term therapy and clients usually receive a large amount
of advice and written information including information sheets and a progress
report in the first consultation. Follow-up sessions are there to assess progress
and modify advice where necessary. If a client has a chronic condition it
may take longer to respond. Work takes place on behalf each client outside
of the consultation as well as giving email support therefore the price reflects
this.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
Prior to the first consultation you will be asked to complete a questionnaire
regarding your health goals, medical history, current health, diet and lifestyle.
This needs to be completed in advance along with a three-day food diary so
that current food intake can be assessed as well.
WHAT HAPPENED DURING THE FIRST
CONSULTATION?
This will take up to 60 minutes. Part of the time is spent discussing the
questionnaire and food diary along with what you want to achieve from Nutrition.
We will then discuss a dietary strategy for you based upon the information
you have provided that may include dietary and lifestyle modifications. After
the session I will then send you a printed strategy to support the discussion.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING A FOLLOW-UP
CONSULTATION?
Follow-up consultations last around 45 minutes with the aim of reviewing your
progress since the initial session. Depending on your reason for seeking nutritional
advice, this may influence how many times you need to come back. A follow-up
session is usually suggested to make sure you are happy with the recommendations
and that progress is being made.
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Indian head massage is based on the ayurvedic system of healing which has been practiced in India for over a thousand years. As with many ancient therapies the benefits are now being appreciated and it is now a popular western treatment.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
The aim of Indian head massage is to release the stress that has accumulated in the tissues, muscles and joints of the head, face, neck and shoulders.
WHAT DOES IT INVOLVE?
The client, fully clothed, sits in a massage chair for the treatment. The therapist uses a range of different movements including application of deep kneading and compression movements over the neck, shoulder and scalp areas. In addition, the therapist will also gently stimulate and stroke pressure points on the face. The session will usually last fifty minutes, and we like their clients to sit quietly for ten once the massage has been completed to obtain the maximum benefit.
WHAT IS IT GOOD FOR?
Indian head massage is especially good for relieving stress, tension, fatigue, insomnia, headaches, migraine and sinusitis. Clients report that the experience is deeply calming and relaxing, leaving them feeling energized and revitalized and better able to concentrate.
WHAT ARE THE BENIFITS?
Indian head massage helps increase
joint mobility and flexibility in the neck and shoulders, improves blood circulation
and lymphatic flow, frees knots of muscular tension, relaxes connective tissue,
and aids in the elimination of accumulated toxins and waste products. It is
particularly good for reducing the effects of stress and tension.
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The primary focus of Physiotherapy is restoring normal function, maximizing potential and minimizing pain, whether this be high performance sport or basic activities of daily living such as walking or doing the housework.
A physiotherapist is a highly skilled practitioner trained to treat a wide range of disorders of the joints, muscles, ligaments, nerves and tendons of the body. You may see a physiotherapist for: Back Pain, Ankle/Knee Sprains, Muscle Strain, Whiplash and neck pain, Sciatica, Shoulder Injuries, Tennis Elbow, Rehabilitation after an accident or an operation or Postural pain
First a detailed assessment will be carried out with specific questioning and a physical examination to determine the source of the problem. It will then be decided whether physiotherapy could be beneficial for your particular problem.
Physiotherapy involves using a wide variety of techniques to help with your
condition or injury such as:
· Joint mobilization/manipulation
· Deep soft tissue massage
· Muscle stretching
· Core strength training
· Pain relieving techniques
· Ultrasound and electrotherapy
· Acupuncture
The philosophy of physiotherapy
is not only to use hands-on techniques but also to enable you to help yourself
get back to fitness. A physiotherapist is expert in identifying which type
of exercises you may need. This may be by, muscle stretching, range of movement
exercises. specific muscle strengthening exercises , core stability exercises,
postural and balance exercises, tailored gym programmed or sports specific
rehabilitation
Physiotherapists are also bound by a code of ethics which ensures that we
only treat when it is clinically appropriate and (with your permission) we
would liaise closely with your GP.
NB: Always ensure your
Physiotherapist is Chartered and a member of the MCSP
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