WHAT ARE THE ORIGINS OF MASSAGE & REFLEXOLOGY?
The healing power of touch has been documented by ancient civilizations in the very earliest medical writings from India, China, Egypt and Rome. Hippocrates wrote in 460BC that "The physician must be experienced in many things, but assuredly in rubbing.. for rubbing can bind a joint that is too loose, and loosen a joint that is too rigid." Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine, places great emphasis on the therapeutic benefits of massage with aromatic oils and it is practiced very widely in India.
More about massageWHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
Massage and reflexology both relax and stimulate the body, relieving muscular tension, strains, aches and pains. Massage techniques use gentle pressure to the tissues to release the build-up of 'knots' or toxins that are held in the muscles due to stress or injury, leaving muscles feeling tension-free and joints more flexible.
Reflexology works on the Chinese 'meridien theory' that lines of energy (or Chi) run through the body, and that corresponding areas of the body can be 'mapped' onto the feet and hands. Stimulation of pressure points on the feet release 'energy blocks' and rebalance the body.
Massage and reflexology treatments also increase the circulation, and this helps to flush toxins from the body. Hands-on therapies also have the benefit of human touch, giving a feeling of comfort and an overall sense of wellbeing.
WHAT CONDITIONS AFFECT MASSAGE?
Please inform me if you have any back or joint pain, muscular pain, injuries or stiffness (new or old), if you have high blood pressure, or if you are on any medication. Please also let me know if you have allergies or sensitive skin. It is not advisable to have a massage in the first three months of pregnancy, or within 12 hours of diving.
Please note that all treatments are taken at your own risk.
CAN I EAT BEFORE A MASSAGE?
Please do not eat anything for at least one hour before to allow enough time for digestion. Try not to have a heavy meal for at least 2-3 hours before; massage is really uncomfortable with a full belly.
SHOULD I DRINK WATER AFTER THE TREATMENT?
Massaging moves lactic acid (felt as muscular knots) and other toxins from the tissues, so your lymphatic system works extra hard to get rid of the waste. This can sometimes cause a 'healing crisis' when it is possible to feel achey and lethargic. Drinking plenty of water after a treatment helps to flush the toxins through and avoid these symptoms. Temperatures in Egypt make it easy to become dehydrated, so drink plenty of water at all times.
