Whilst particularly geared towards relaxation, massage can also be very effective at aiding recovery from sports injuries. Massage uses a variety of stroking, kneading, pressure and flowing movements over the body to treat and prevent a huge variety of complaints, or can simply be used for deep relaxation. It is the perfect treatment to boost overall vitality and promote a sense of calm.
Whether you’re carrying the tension of a long week, recovering from a sports injury or simply want to feel better in your body, massage therapy is one of the most effective and immediate ways to help.
What is massage therapy?
Massage therapy is a hands-on treatment that works with the soft tissues of the body – muscles, fascia, tendons and ligaments – using a range of techniques including stroking, kneading, compression and flowing movements.
Depending on the technique used and how the session is tailored, massage can:
- Relieve muscle tension and tightness
- Reduce pain from injury or chronic conditions
- Improve circulation and mobility
- Support recovery from exercise and sport
- Reduce stress, anxiety and mental fatigue
- Promote deep relaxation and a sense of calm
- Improve sleep quality
- Boost overall vitality and wellbeing
Types of massage available in Bath
Sports massage
Sports massage is designed to support athletic performance, aid recovery and address the specific demands placed on the body through exercise and training. It uses deeper pressure and targeted techniques to work with the muscles and soft tissues most affected by your sport or activity. Whether you’re a runner, cyclist, gym-goer or weekend walker, sports massage can help you train harder, recover faster and reduce the risk of injury.
Remedial massage
Remedial massage takes a more clinical approach, targeting specific areas of tension, pain or restricted movement. It’s particularly useful for people dealing with ongoing muscular discomfort, postural problems or the physical effects of a desk-based job. Sessions are tailored to your individual presentation rather than following a fixed routine.
Stress reduction massage
Sometimes the body simply needs to rest. Stress reduction massage uses gentler, flowing techniques to calm the nervous system, ease accumulated tension and promote a genuine sense of relaxation. Madeleine also offers Ayurvedic Face Massage as part of this approach – a deeply calming treatment that works with the face, scalp and neck.
Thai massage
Thai massage combines assisted stretching, acupressure and rhythmic movement to improve flexibility, release tension and rebalance energy through the body. Performed fully clothed on a mat, it’s particularly good for people who feel stiff, restricted in their movement, or who want something more active than a traditional table massage.
Who can benefit from massage?
Massage therapy is suitable for most people and can be helpful across a wide range of situations:
- Back, neck and shoulder pain
- Sports injuries and muscle strains
- Headaches caused by tension
- Postural problems from desk work or repetitive activity
- Stress, anxiety and difficulty sleeping
- Recovery after illness or surgery (with appropriate medical clearance)
- General fatigue and low energy
- Anyone who simply wants to feel better and move more freely
If you’re unsure whether massage is right for your situation, you can discuss your needs with your therapist at the start of your appointment and they will advise accordingly.
What to expect at your first appointment
We will take a short health history and ask about your current symptoms, goals and any areas of concern. This helps us to understand what your body needs and choose the most appropriate techniques for your session.
Sessions take place on a treatment table (or mat for Thai massage) in a calm, professional environment at The Bath Practice in central Bath. You’ll be kept comfortable and covered at all times, with only the area being worked on uncovered.
After your session, we may offer advice on stretches, exercises or lifestyle factors that could support your recovery or help you get more from future treatments.
Our Practitioners
See individual practitioners for prices and to book an appointment