Massage Therapy
What is Massage Therapy?
Massage therapy is one of the oldest and most effective forms of hands-on treatment. By working directly on the soft tissues of the body, muscles, connective tissue and skin, massage reduces tension, improves circulation, supports recovery and promotes a deep sense of physical and mental relaxation. At Walnut Grove, massage is offered in three forms, Swedish massage, hot stone massage and lymphatic drainage, each with its own character and application.
Swedish massage uses smooth, flowing strokes applied at medium to firm pressure to work through muscle tension, ease tightness and encourage the body to relax. It is suitable for most people and adaptable to your needs on the day, whether you are carrying tension from a demanding week, recovering from physical exertion, or simply in need of an hour to yourself. Sessions are available in 30, 45 and 60 minute durations.
Hot stone massage takes the benefits of Swedish massage further by incorporating smooth, heated basalt stones into the treatment. The warmth of the stones penetrates deeply into the muscle tissue, releasing tension that hands alone may take longer to reach. It is a deeply immersive experience and particularly effective for those carrying chronic tension, muscular heaviness or the kind of fatigue that a standard massage does not quite touch. Sessions are available in 30 and 60 minute durations.
Lymphatic drainage massage uses light, rhythmic strokes to stimulate the lymphatic system and encourage the movement of lymph fluid through the body. Where Swedish and hot stone massage work primarily on muscle tissue, lymphatic drainage works on the body’s immune and circulatory systems, making it a quite different treatment with a distinct set of benefits. It is available as a 60 minute session.
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Massage Therapy FAQs
Which type of massage should I choose?
If you are new to massage or unsure, Swedish massage is a great starting point. It covers the full range from relaxation to firm therapeutic work and suits most people well. Hot stone massage is worth considering if you carry deep or chronic muscle tension, or if you want a more immersive, deeply warming experience. Lymphatic drainage is a different treatment altogether, lighter in touch but highly effective if your main concerns are immunity, swelling, puffiness, skin or low energy. If you are still not sure, just ask when you book and we will help you choose.
How long a session should I book?
That depends on what you are hoping to get from it. A 30 minute session is useful for targeting a specific area, shoulders and neck for example, or for a quick reset when time is short. 45 minutes allows for a more thorough treatment. A full hour gives your therapist time to work across the whole body properly and is the best option if you want a genuinely restorative experience. Lymphatic drainage is only available as a 60 minute session.
I've never had a massage before. What should I expect?
Your therapist will talk through what you are hoping to get from the session and ask about any areas to avoid or pay particular attention to. You will be asked to undress to your comfort level and will be covered throughout, with only the area being worked on uncovered at any time. Lymphatic drainage is an exception – it can be performed through light clothing if preferred. The session itself should feel comfortable throughout. Let your therapist know at any point if the pressure needs adjusting.
Is massage suitable if I have a medical condition?
Massage is safe for most people, but there are some conditions where it needs to be adapted or avoided. This is particularly worth noting with lymphatic drainage, which is not appropriate in certain situations including active infection, blood clots or some cancer diagnoses. When you book, please let us know about any relevant medical history, recent injuries, skin conditions or areas of concern. Your therapist will check in before the session and will always work within what is appropriate for you.
Can I book massage alongside other treatments at Walnut Grove?
Yes, and it works particularly well that way. Massage complements osteopathy, physiotherapy and sports rehabilitation, and many patients find that combining therapies gives them better results than either alone. If you are already seeing another practitioner at the clinic, it is worth mentioning that when you book your massage so your therapist has the full picture.
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