Our gliding cups create a traditional push/compression effect, using the leading rim of the cup, which is then followed by a ‘lifting’ negative pressure over the same area (pull effect).

The lifting and separating of the soft tissue, maintains an even pressure during the glide assisting the muscles and tissue soften, eliminating trigger points, breaking down restrictive, tense and painful scar tissue and regaining greater range of motion.

Myofascial cupping works well in conjunction with our other massage treatments. Ask us about the best treatment plan suited to benefit you.

Tension brought on by the pressures of our daily activities, sports schedules, injury, surgery, posture imbalances, emotional stresses and poor work habits. An effective massage technique which quickly softens tissue, reduces the incidence of injury and maintains effective function of muscles

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Lymphatic drainage helps improve blood circulation, stimulate your digestive and immune systems and generally inspire a more effectively functioning body.

Using light pressure, rhythmic strokes and soft pumping movements we massage through target areas – in particular the thigh, arms, stomach and face – clearing any blockages and opening the pathway for the toxins to exit your main lymph areas.

As you feel the toxins channelling their way “out” and away from the wrongly stored places, you may experience some level of discomfort

Invaluable for ridding of migraines, fatigue, bloatedness, sluggishness, opening the sinus and regulating the bowels…Feel the benefits and add that bounce back in your step?!

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When muscles are stressed, overused or injured, they often knot up within their muscle fibre and form trigger points (creating ‘knots’). The trigger points cause pain and tightness and can often result from muscle injury or repetitive strain.Trigger points often cause pain and tightness in other parts of the body. This is commonly known as referred pain and acts as a satellite trigger point.

A trigger point pain can be sharp or dull and can be so painful that it can hinder your lifestyle and movement.A Trigger Point massage treatment is a form of static pressure applied between a muscle and its nerve, using a thumb, elbow or knuckle. At activation, a slight pinch is normally felt. As this ‘pinch’ eases, the muscle fibres release and soften, making the muscle and knot feel relieved and loose. This can sometimes take up to 5minutes (depending how ‘dormant’ the muscle has been).

So it’s a PERFECT treatment to help settle Chronic Pain.

Releasing a trigger point relaxes the tight muscle at the direct point of pressure and increases mobility associated with the referred pain area. If the trigger point is active and painful, the mild pain of the trigger point therapy is a relieving sensation. The muscle will relax and the trigger point pain will lessen and go away. Sometimes the pain and symptoms will go away immediately.If the triggers have existed for a long time and get ‘trapped’ as a chronic pain, it may require progressive treatments to treat the source.

Trigger point massage therapy aims to eliminate the source of pain and muscle dysfunction, rather than just the symptoms.

This is where Muscle Esssence engages in a consultative way and may suggest referrals to other practitioners to balance treatment plans between 2 techniques in order to get the best and quickest recovery outcomes for their client.

People who experience trigger point pain usually complain of localized, regional, aching pain tissues, including muscles and joints. Numbness or “pins and needles” sensation, loss of range of motion, referred pain to other areas of the body, weakness and inflammation are all likely symptoms.

Muscles with trigger points will have a decline in strength, greater fatigue, and longer recovery times than muscles that are pain free, without trigger points. Trigger point pain causes quicker fatigue of muscles at the beginning of a repetitive task and leads to greater chance of a delayed recovery.

TYPES OF TRIGGER POINTS:

There are both active and inactive trigger points.

An active trigger point starts due to a one-time trauma, and might become inactive when the soft tissue heals. However, it is still there, dormant until triggered by something to re-activate it again. For instance, a calf muscle with an inactive trigger point that gets cold might develop a knot and trigger point pain will occur again, long after the injury is gone.

Sometimes we can get a trigger point that will go away in time. Then certain stressors or activities perpetuate the trigger point, so that it repeatedly returns every time we repeat that same activity.

Traumas such as a sports injury, an acute illness, emotionally charged events such as a death or tragedy, overworked or strained muscles, tension or stress, postural imbalances, poor sleep patterns, repetitive work postures, overload, overuse or straining of muscles in the workplace, can all activate trigger point pain and dysfunction.

These trigger points left untreated can return over and over, leading to further dysfunction and cause many more “key” or “satellite” trigger points and refer pain in the same or opposite muscle groups.

A key trigger is directly caused by the original stress or trauma to the muscle. A satellite trigger is a spin-off of a key trigger point (also known as the referred pain). Several satellites could form at any time. It is important to release the key trigger point in order to ease any referred “satellite” pains.

WHEN TO AVOID TRIGGER POINT THERAPY:

Trigger points can feel like or cause the following conditions: headaches, jaw pain, stiff neck, neck and back pain and stiffness, sinus problems, dizziness, toothache, clicking in joint areas, frozen shoulder, sciatica, weak hip flexion, Irritable Bowel symptoms, knee problems, weak ankles, calf cramps, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis etc. It’s a good idea to rule out other physical conditions and/or skeletal issues by a specialist physician first.

Chronic Trigger points can mimic cardiac symptoms. Caution! ALWAYS get trigger point therapy secondary to a medical examination with a full release from a physician!

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It’s a fast paced and moving trend. Massage therapy is more becoming part of wellness programs. Organisations who are dedicated to retain staff and uphold a positive reputation of being a standout company – an employer of choice – look to engage in wellbeing programs.

Those organisations who understand the continued workload pressures, the challenges of work/life balance and ergonomic strains on the mind, body and spirit of those working in a corporate environment, also appreciate the benefits and significant impact massage can have on the culture, results, efficiency, productivity and emotional & physical wellbeing of staff in these environments. The positive impact on the perception and reputation of management and the organisation also goes without saying.

Through Corporate Massage partnerships Muscle Essence branches off as Muscle Wellness. Muscle Wellness is a partnering program between a fully equipped massage therapist and your workplace wellness program.

Corporate massage can be executed in various ways. Historically, trends were such that a small team of massage therapists would circulate the office and perform 3-5min massages at workstations. Nowadays, it’s deemed upon as less intrusive and distracting, but also more effective, for staff massages to be performed away from the desk.

The objective is to massage individuals or teams of workers in the same environment. This can be done in a designated private room/space for a designated time, either as a seated massage or table massage.

The seated massage usually focuses on 10 to 15 minutes of massaging while seated. This seated massage concentrates on the neck, shoulders and back region, to help relieve tension and stiffness cause by workstation habits, poor posture and pressures. Chair massages are fully clothed and there is no use of oils

The table massage focuses on 30 to 60 minute full body massage, usually as a reward for top employees or even clients. This form of massage is also a common preference in smaller offices with fewer employees.

The massage therapist works in with the staff member applying the right amount of pressure and technique to suit. The massage should be enjoyable and effective enough for the staff member to feel great at the end of it, with some muscle train relieved.

The corporate massage partnership involves discussion of organisational requirements, frequency, how appointments are managed and general terms of the arrangements. Consent forms, health forms, risk management forms and Partnership Agreements are all designed and made available by Muscle Wellness.

Feedback is always encouraged.  Massage is a great way to start/end a day/week in the office.

BENEFITS OF CORPORATE MASSAGE:

Incorporating massage into wellness and reward programs within the workplace can promote a range of benefits and advantages. This includes:

• Self Awareness & esteem
• Balanced mind body & spirit
• Balanced emotional and physical well being
• Promotes team energy, productivity and results.
• Establishes a positive workplace culture
• Retains staff
• Builds on the performance and reputation of the business/organisation.
• Creates an ‘employer of choice’ culture

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Pregnancy or prenatal massage with a qualified therapist can be a relaxing way to release some of your back and leg pain during pregnancy. It is a great way for mother and baby to relax and enjoy some peaceful time together as the body and tummy are massaged and stimulated. There needs to be a level of sensitivity and gentleness extended by the therapist, which factors in the baby as well.

Prenatal or Postnatal use of Swedish massage therapy which supports the physiological, structural and emotional well-being of mother and baby. Pregnancy massage, pre or post, offers a relational tonic to mother and baby. Muscle Essence offers a choice between a more gentle massage or one with firmer pressure. Gentle massage uses lighter repetitive strokes or kneading techniques, to soothe your muscles, reduce anxiety, improve circulation and cellular respiration. Firmer pressure targets those who experience tension or aches particularly through shoulders and legs. Postnatal massage is a great way to create soothing moments with your baby as you involve them in your massage experience. Make the time to escape and take advantage of ongoing relaxation and the aftercare parent and baby deserve.

Studies indicate that massage therapy performed during pregnancy can reduce anxiety, decrease symptoms of depression, relieve muscle aches and joint pains, and improve labour outcomes and newborn health.

Body position during prenatal massage is important in order to maximise the effectiveness of the massage and to fully gain its benefits. Some may choose a side-lying position on a sturdy, cushioned massage table for pregnant women during massage. Others prefer a well cushioned massage chair, which can provide a comfortable, safe position and balanced support for a growing tummy, managing blood pressure and blood flow.

Swedish massage techniques is one of the most popular forms of pregnancy massage. This is because of its particular benefits in reducing muscle tension and improving blood flow and lymphatic drainage. It involves long strokes over tight muscles, relieving immediate tension.

A good massage therapist may be willing to show your partner some massage techniques you could try for yourselves. Pregnant women who are interested in massage therapy should adopt a safety-first approach. If you are thinking about having a pregnancy massage, it is important to find a qualified therapist certified in prenatal techniques. Equipment required for pregnancy massage can be a little different to the standard issue. Your comfort is key.

BENEFITS OF PREGNANCY MASSAGE

• Reduces stress hormones within a pregnant woman’s body. It also increases the levels of hormones which tend to be low in women who are depressed.
• Leads to a reduction in anxiety and there is often an improvement in general mood following a massage.
• Rejuvenates energy because it gives an opportunity to rest and completely relax.
• In some, massage can relieve nausea and heartburn. In others, it can stimulate it. Best to talk this through.
• Relieves discomfort of pregnancy such as an aching neck, sore back, and heaviness in the pelvic bones, leg cramps, swelling of the ankles and feet and oedema (fluid retention).
• Leads to muscle relaxation and relief of joint pain. Pregnancy massage can be particularly helpful for women who experience sciatic nerve pain.
• Builds a feeling a sense of connectedness. Many pregnant women experience a change in their intimate relationship with their partner and suffer from being “touch deprived”.
• May improve the progression of labour with better health outcomes for both the mother and her baby. More relaxed mothers tend to have a lower risk of interventions during labour and birth.

Improves sleep due to feeling less muscle tension and generally less uncomfortable.

WHAT TO AVOID IN PRENANCY MASSAGE:

It’s best to avoid deep tissue massage and other pressure point techniques that might pose a circulation, blood pressure risk or may bring on labour, especially when massaging the calves and legs. A woman’s blood volume doubles during pregnancy.

Lying on your back in the first and third trimester is not recommended. The massage chair may be a better and safer option, with a light Swedish massage on all areas except the wrist and ankle.

Using aromatherapy oils may help to heighten the sensory experience. There is however, a range of oils which need to be avoided as they can prompt uterine contractions. These include oregano, peppermint, thyme, basil, sage and rosemary.

The first trimester is the critical time when everything is starting to form. Many people aren’t comfortable in the first trimester; they’re just not feeling well.

After 22 weeks, lying on your back should be avoided because it can put pressure on a deep blood vessel that is important for carrying blood and nutrients to your baby. If you have a high-risk pregnancy or high blood pressure, or you experience sudden swelling, speak to your doctor before scheduling any prenatal massage.

Do not get a prenatal massage if:

• your physician advised you against it
• you are in a high risk pregnancy category or have previously had a premature labour.
• you have Pregnancy Induced Hypertension e.g. high blood pressure.
• you have pre-eclampsia, or sudden swelling with retention of fluid. If you experience severe headaches.
• having a pregnancy massage causes you to feel sick, lightheaded, gives you a headache or you don’t enjoy the experience.

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Acupressure massage is a massage discipline that has been practiced for over 5,000 years. A discipline for good health, vitality and longevity.

It is a form of touch therapy in which deep pressure points are applied to the muscles, by finger pressure, thumbs, palms, side of the hand, knuckles and elbows; helping diffuse the build-up of toxins in your muscle tissue. This pressure relieves a variety of muscle symptoms including stiffness, pain and general soreness and unlike acupuncture (which uses needles), acupressure is a non-invasive form of massage.

Acupressure is an effective massage technique which achieves immediate and longer term muscle pain relief and increased mobility.

So it’s the PERFECT treatment for chronic pain!

It is also very effective in prevention and treatment of many health conditions like headache, colds, flu, arthritis, asthma, tennis elbow, general aches and the nervous system.

It achieves a stronger sense of wellbeing and stimulation of our immune systems.

For a more balanced and corrective approach, Muscle Essence usually follows an acupressure treatment with Swedish massage to help restore the flow of energy into muscle after a thorough treatment.

BENEFITS OF ACUPRESSURE MASSAGE:

Acupressure massage can help:

• ease chronic pain
• reduce stress
• improve posture and range of movement
• improve your energy level
• relieve back and post-operative pain

correct imbalances eliminating further unnecessary muscle strain

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A Sports massage is a form of bodywork and manipulation of soft tissue (muscle), geared towards preparing and repairing stressed muscles, preventing or improving soft tissue injury. The treatments focus on softening tense tissue, stretching tight muscles and improving range of motion, eliminating risk of further damage to the already fragile tissue. As a qualified therapist, the focus is on working together to achieve the desired outcomes and soothe the body.  A great Sports Massage combines passive stretching and moving muscles in a specialised way to improve the overall efficiency of the musculoskeletal system. There is a thin line that exists between working the muscle and and stressing the muscle.

Pre Event sports massage, uses a gentler technique to simply to warm up, stretch and loosen muscles and prepare the body for sports and/or movement. It helps promote a feeling of psychological preparedness for achieving optimal performance. In Post-event sports massage we work to speed up recovery and the repair process of strained and tired muscles and tissue. The pressure should be accommodated enough to manipulate the tissue that lays on top of and deeper into the muscle, enough to release any newly formed or small scar tissue knots and to stretch stiff muscles.

With sports massages we encourage bloodflow back into muscles, soothing and reducing any inflammation, soreness, cramping and strains, allowing for faster recovery.

BENEFITS OF SPORTS MASSAGE

Sports massage has been proven to be effective for:

• releasing and reducing tension in the muscles
• improving circulation
• encouraging the removal of waste products such as lactic acid
• stimulating or suppressing nerve activity

Sports massage can be extremely effective in mentally and physically preparing an athlete for exercise as well as a recovery aid. In fact it can be effective for all stages of the performer’s participation including the preparation, training, competition and recovery stages.

Sports massage is highly beneficial for those athletes who are prone to overuse injuries, as the muscles are allowed to relax and recover fully before the next exercise session. Golfer’s and tennis elbow and frozen shoulder are good examples of this.

WHEN TO AVOID SPORTS MASSAGE:

Sports massage should be avoided if the athlete is suffering from an illness or infection or has been diagnosed with a serious health condition such as cancer or haemophilia. Sports massage is usually not advisable for those who suffer with diabetes.

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Swedish Massage uses the hands, forearms and elbows to manipulate the superficial layers of the muscles to improve mental, physical health and general wellbeing. It works by alternating both firm to light pressure incorporating long sweeping strokes, rhythmic tapping, vibrations and kneading.

Effleurage: gentle sliding or gliding techniques which help to increase circulation, warm the muscles and stimulate the nerves. This technique is used at the start of massage sessions to ease the athlete in gently.

Petrissage: a more intense form of massage involving kneading of the muscles to attain deeper and firmer movements, designed to stretch the muscles and ease tension.

Frictions: The palms of the hand sandwich the muscle areas and rubbed vigorously with each other, or they are rubbed onto the skin/muscle in order to produce heat by friction and relax the muscles. Often fairly painful as they are used to separate muscle fibres and break down scar tissue. This technique is only used for very short periods of time usually warming up for deeper tissue massage.

Vibrating: back and forth actions of the fingertips or the heel of the hand over the skin, causing shaking movements, which help loosen and relax clusters of muscle. The side of the hand can also be used.

Tapotement: Rhythmic Tapping movements using the fists, cupped hands or sides of the hand. This helps to loosen and relax the muscles and also helps to energize them.

Swedish massage is more than just a great way to treat yourself. The physical and mental health benefits of a Swedish massage make it a great option for those new to massage or someone looking for a complete massage experience. Swedish massage is a popular massage technique for relieving a range of disorders including sleeping, asthma, arthritis, carpal tunnel and headaches

Boost your flow of energy by adding aromatherapy to your Swedish massage.

BENEFITS OF SWEDISH MASSAGE

Swedish massage therapy goes beyond relaxation. Swedish massage is exceptionally beneficial for improving general health and wellbeing:

• increases the level of oxygen in the blood
• decreases muscle toxins
• improves circulation and muscle skin tone
• improves flexibility and joint stiffness
• improves sleep
• lowers blood pressure and
• reduces stress and anxiety, promoting body and mind relaxation

6 Key Reasons to perform Swedish Massage:

Pain management. If you have a condition like sciatica, rheumatoid or osteoarthritis and are suffering from chronic pain as a result, Swedish massage can be an effective method for managing that pain in a natural way. It is important to highlight your pain points, so your massage therapist can target those areas and use a stroking motion to improve local circulation and reduce muscle tension. The lymphatic areas can also be lightly massaged to help improve efficiency of body functions and blood flow. A great way to provide some comfort to those suffering from motor neuron disease.

Increased blood flow.  Effleurage – a long, stroking motion in the direction of blood flow towards the heart – is used as a technique to help open up your blood vessels and increase your blood flow. Increased blood flow means that your muscles are getting more nutrients and oxygen and that your body is removing toxins more efficiently. Make sure you rehydrate after this treatment!

Rehabilitation for muscle injuries. Kneading and friction are best techniques to use to address any existing injuries, such as adhesions (which occur when muscle tissues fuse together). Many people say that this technique, relaxes layers of muscle and makes it feel as if the massage therapist is “working out the knots”

Increased flexibility. When your muscles are more relaxed, you’re able to experience a wider range of motion. A combination of Swedish massage and regular (passive or active) stretching (or a slight application of accupressure), is a great way for anyone to recover from sports-related injuries and get the most out of their periods of exercise.

Reduced stress. Swedish massages help maximize relaxation. The combination of the hands-on attention and the environment should relax you, lowering the level of the stress hormone cortisol in your body. Lowering your stress level offers a surprising number of additional benefits, including reducing or eliminating tension headaches, giving you more energy, and allowing you to get a better night’s sleep.

Improved immune system. One other great benefit of reducing your stress with a Swedish massage is that the lower cortisol levels allow your immune system to grow stronger, meaning that you’re less likely to get sick and can spend more time doing the things you enjoy.

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