Pregnancy Massage
The many benefits of massage are well known and are also true during pregnancy. During pregnancy a woman’s body is constantly evolving with physical changes, and pregnancy massage is a fantastic safe, gentle and holistic way of dealing with some of the aches, pains and niggles that may arise during this physically and sometimes mentally stressful time.
Pregnancy massage therapists should be qualified and certified to be able to adapt their treatment to the needs of the mother to be and her baby. Most practitioners will give massage from the end of the first trimester onwards, usually after the first scan, as long as no contra-indications are discovered during the initial consultation prior to the massage.
A variety of positions can be used during a pregnancy massage, whether it be laying on ones side on the couch, the couch back propped up to allow for a seated position or even seated on a fitness ball leaning forward and resting arms and head on the couch, allowing for maximum comfort throughout the treatment. Qualified practitioners will offer massage for the baby bump from week 18 onwards which is as nice for the mother as it is for the baby. If you would rather not include this in your massage, the practitioner can easily show you or your partner how to do it in the comfort of your own home.
If the therapist is qualified in aromatherapy there are a number of natural essential oils that are safe to use in pregnancy, such as mandarin, which are blended with a carrier oil like as grape seed, before being applied to the skin. Your therapist will be able to advise you on which essential oils would be most beneficial for you depending on any conditions or symptoms you are experiencing. Pregnant women can find aromatherapy massage a wonderfully relaxing experience due to a heightened sense of smell when pregnant.
Following a pregnancy massage clients often feel rejuvenated and may notice an improvement in the circulation system with reduced swelling in extremities, a reduction of leg cramps and easing of restless legs. Massage has also been found to ease symptoms of sciatica, pain and achiness in the pelvis, lower back and shoulders, headaches and have benefitted from improved sleep. On a psychological level women often feel that massage helps to reduce stress, depression and anxiety and overall increase their positivity, which could partly be because massage releases endorphins, the feel good hormone, and helps to regulate stress hormones.
Gift vouchers for massage are a great present to give new parents during pregnancy and after the birth at a time when everyone focuses more on the baby, and can be purchased from our centre.
Please call us on 633060 to make an appointment or Click Here for our full Schedule of Fees.