Should I have a pregnancy massages frequently?

Pregnancy often comes with a range of challenges, and this can in turn take a toll on your body, whether that be physically or mentally. With the expectancy of a new life, things can often get hectic and it’s easy to neglect your own health. However, contrary to this, not only is it important to look after your baby but it is also just as vital to take care of your own well-being. This is why we’d recommend putting together a plan and ensuring regular self-care treatments such as pregnancy massages.

Decreases aches and pains

One common problem that comes with pregnancy is increasing muscle aches and pains. As your body adapts, muscles and joints are put under strain by the baby. Having pregnancy massages frequently can help alleviate some of this built-up pain by focusing on these problem areas. The therapist will use light pressure and long strokes to ease the discomfort.

Reduce swelling

Additionally, through gentle massaging, we can also achieve a reduction in swelling. This is through moving the fluid to help increase circulation in the body that has built up in certain areas. These typically include the hands, feet, and ankles.  Having this as part of a regular routine can help keep swelling to a minimum and therefore allow a more comfortable pregnancy.

Better quality sleep

Carrying on from this, sleep is often a struggle even before the baby arrives. It can be hard to get comfortable, especially as you reach nearer the end of your pregnancy and the baby is fully grown. Fortunately, having pregnancy massages frequently can help alleviate some of this discomfort, and allow for a night of better sleep. The process helps release tension in these problem areas and increase serotonin levels, making you feel calm and relaxed.

Preparing for labour

Furthering this, whilst your body changes for labour, the introduction of regular massages can also help aid your preparations. The technique focuses heavily on the muscles and joints involved in labour, increasing their mobility and flexibility. This in turn can make it easier when baby is born and give you more confidence going into the birth.

Summarising, there are multiple reasons for implementing regular massages into your pregnancy plan. The process is able to ease you through the journey and help get you ready for motherhood. This can be a scary, uncertain time for many expectant mothers but we’re here to put you at ease. We focus on taking care of you, to allow you to focus on your baby.

Please note, however, that we could need approval from a doctor/midwife before massaging if the client is experiencing certain conditions.

If you’d like to book a pregnancy massage, please call 07711 633 512 and our team will secure your booking. On the other hand, if you are interested in learning about the other treatments we have on offer, why not check out the previous blogs at Olive Massage Blog.

Do I need a sports massage before a marathon?

Are you currently training to run a marathon but scared of encountering an injury along the way? We might have the answer to all your problems! A sports massage is a great way of preparing for a big event that can be physically challenging. It can be incorporated into your training plan, and regularly used to ensure maximum benefits. There is a plethora of positives that accompany this treatment which we will unpack throughout this blog, helping you decide which massage is right for you…

Limits muscle injuries

Firstly, a significant benefit is the prevention or aid of muscle injuries. Often running can lead to multiple problems, caused by tension or weakness of muscles, tendons, and ligaments. This can commonly affect areas such as the knees, achilles, and shins. Sports massages can help by identifying these problems early and addressing the issue by targeting specific points. Massaging increases blood circulation and muscle temperature which encourages the body’s recovery by sending nutrients and breaking down scar tissue causing pain. Therefore, it’s able to help stop the injury from becoming any worse.

Achieve a PB

Additionally, whether this is your second or hundredth marathon, improving on your last race is a goal for most. It’s found that sports massages can help enhance performance, improving your efficiency, stride length, and economy. This can all factor in to help you get your quickest run!

De-stress

Training for a marathon can also induce a lot of stress which has mental and physical effects on the body. It’s found that having a massage can help reduce anxiety and relax the mind, crucial in helping you maintain focus. This can be especially useful nearer race day as nerves may be higher.

Increase flexibility

Continuing from this, another benefit of the massage is the improvement in the range of movement. As the muscles are worked on, tension is released, and muscles are loosened. This increases your flexibility, aiding your run by allowing your body to move more easily and approach challenging terrains with less difficulty.

Improves sleep

Finally, we all know before a big race it’s important to get a good rest. That’s why it can be so beneficial to get a massage on the previous days as this can promote a night of restful sleep and prepare your body. Having enough sleep beforehand allows for high performance, better concentration, and more energy.

In summary, having a sports massage can significantly improve your overall experience when training for a marathon. Including sessions as part of a holistic plan will collectively provide you with a good base when it comes to race day.

If you’d like to book a Sports Massage, please call 07711 633 512 and our team will secure your booking. On the other hand, if you are interested in learning about the other treatments we have on offer, why not check out the previous blogs at Olive Massage Blog.

Many people often go for a massage to promote a feeling of peacefulness and gain its stress-relieving benefits. We are continuously living more stressful lives and it’s becoming even more important to take care of your body. Therefore, a Relaxation or Therapeutic massage has become increasingly popular as we strive for a more relaxed way of life.

However, it can often be confusing which of these to choose from and the differences between them both. That’s why we’ve put together an easy, step-by-step guide to help inform your decision and pick depending on your goals.

What is a Relaxation massage?

A Relaxation massage is predominantly focused on the mental benefits instead of the physical ones. It aims to guide your body into a relaxed state and encourage the release of endorphins. This all contributes to you feeling happier and boosting your mood.

The masseuse uses a technique that involves little pressure and all-over body movements. This provides a more generalised approach to ensure as many areas are targeted at once. Here at Olive we offer various Relaxation therapies. These include Aromatherapy, Hot stone massages and the Swedish massage.

What is a Therapeutic massage?

Although a Therapeutic massage is also designed to help relax the body and provide stress relief, it provides a far more precise targeting approach in comparison to Relaxation massages. A therapist will focus on specific problem areas for the client, to achieve relief from pain or discomfort. During the massage only a number of areas will be covered, this is to ensure enough time and pressure is applied to treat the issue. Some Therapeutic treatments we offer at Olive include: Deep Tissue massages, Sports massages and cupping.

What are the benefits- comparing Relaxation massages to Therapeutic massage

If you’re still unsure which of these therapies is right for you, take a look at the main benefits of each. Which of these resonates most with you and your well-being goals?

Starting with Relaxation massages, some of the main points are:

Boosting the immune system

A Relaxation massage helps to remove toxins from the body and also increase the blood flow- helping fight off illnesses.

Helps improve sleep

Increased feeling of calmness and reduction in anxiety helps encourage better sleep.

Lowers stress

This is a big benefit of the therapy and in some cases can increase serotonin and dopamine levels by 30%. This has a huge influence on your mood and a decrease in stress hormones.

On the other hand, Therapeutic massages benefits include:

Reduction in pain

Relieving pain and tension on muscles by increasing blood flow to these areas.

Supports recovery from injury

This can speed up the recovery process by targeting and reducing inflammation.

Improved movement

Removing the tension build-up in the muscles, Therapeutic massages can help with mobility and range of motion at the joint.

Next steps

We hope this has provided insight into these two treatments. If you’d like to book one of our Therapeutic or Relaxation massage, please call 07711 633 512 and our team will secure your booking.

Don’t forget to check out our blogs  for more tips and useful advice!

It is often hard to know where to start when picking the right massage: which is best suited to your needs, if there are any conditions ruled out, and if there are any side effects to be aware of. When deciding between a Deep Tissue Massage or Swedish Massage it can often be confusing what the differences are. Although they both have similarities, there are definitely some important variables that should be considered when booking. We have put together a list of these to help when picking, designed to inform and guide your decision. 

Where do Deep Tissue Massages and Swedish Massages target? 

As both techniques are performed in the same area including the back, shoulders, and neck it can often be mistaken they intend to target the same place. However, a Deep Tissue Massage aims to reach below surface level, targeting the inner layers. This can include the muscles, tendons, or connective tissue. In comparison, a Swedish Massage only focuses on the top level. It manipulates the soft tissue by performing a range of movements, reaching only the superficial tissue. 

What are the benefits of both? 

All massages have multiple benefits that can improve your health. Therefore, when choosing the right one it’s essential to prioritise those most impactful for you.  

Deep Tissue Massages advantages include: 

• Relieves stress 
• Lowers blood pressure 
• Breaks up scar tissue 
• Increases movement 

Compared to this, a Swedish Massage offers: 

• Improved the immune system  
• Helps with back pain 
• Lowers anxiety 
• Improve sleep 

What to expect from a Deep Tissue Massage v a Swedish Massage? 

As we’ve discovered, Deep Tissue Massages and Swedish Massages have different areas to reach. This results in them using different techniques in order to effectively treat these.  

Starting with a Swedish Massage, there are four main techniques used to achieve good circulation and blood flow. These are Effleurage, Petrissage, Kneading and Tapotement. Linked together, the actions of these movements often involve subtle pressure with slow, rhythmic motions. Using long strokes and circular movements, the massage is promoted as relaxing and used to relieve stress. 

On the other hand, a Deep Tissue Massage is tailored more towards people with injuries. Therefore, the technique has to be far more intense to reach these problem areas. Much like Swedish Massages, Deep Tissue techniques involve a similar kneading process. This can be performed with fists, fingers, or elbows. However, to ensure this reaches below the surface its crucial high pressure is applied which can cause pain. 

Who is not able to have a Deep Tissue or Swedish Massage? 

Some conditions are ruled out of having these massages due to risks. We have put together a few common issues that might prevent you from having a treatment but please note this is not all of them. This is important to consider when booking and if unsure talking to your doctor is advised.  

Deep Tissue Massages: 

• History of blood clotting 
• Older aged 
• Skin conditions 
• Hernia 
• Risk of injury from fragility 

Swedish Massages: 

• Unhealed injuries 
• Recent surgery 
• Diabetes 
• Pregnancy 
• Arthritis 

Next steps  

We hope this has provided insight into these two treatments. If you’d like to book a Swedish or Deep Tissue Massage, please call 07711 633 512 and our team will secure your booking. 

Don’t forget to check out our blogs for more tips and useful advice! 

Why is it beneficial to feel comfortable during a massage?

Being able to enjoy a massage means you have to feel at ease. If accompanied by tension or stress, your experience could be jeopardised, and not attain all the potential benefits. We have put together a list of useful tips before and during your treatment to help you feel comfortable during a massage. These will enable you to get the most out of the process and reap the rewards!

Do your research

Firstly, if you are unsure what to expect and your main concern is the fear of the unknown, researching the massage process beforehand can remove some of this anxiety. Doing a quick search can provide insight into what to prepare for. This is beneficial for some people as they don’t feel like they are going in blind.

Get comfortable, feel comfortable during a massage

When preparing for your massage, it’s important you take the time to ensure you are in the most comfortable position. This means you are able to attain this for a long duration. You may want to ask your masseuse what they would recommend or even use pillows or blankets to support you.

Release any tension

Once you have obtained your position, you can now relax. Releasing into your settled state can help the masseuse manipulate your body and identify the problem areas more easily.

Talk to the therapist before

Additionally, being honest and open with your therapist beforehand can help alleviate built-up anxiety and give them a chance to challenge any worries. As professionals we want to provide the best service so encourage our clients to speak up if they have any concerns. Many people have different preferences when it comes to massages, so it is important you let your therapist know what you are and aren’t comfortable with.

Focus on your breathing

Often, it’s easy to get overwhelmed when having a massage, especially if it’s your first time. To help focus and take your mind off these worries we recommend you concentrate on your breathing. This could include just counting each breath or carefully monitoring the length of each inhale and exhale.

Hydrate

Drinking water before your massage is often recommended. This is due to its antitoxin benefits, aiding the treatment’s aims. Moreover, it also can help prevent common side effects such as nausea and dizziness if your blood pressure drops. Keeping your body hydrated will help your muscles prepare for the massage.

Reach out

If you are unsure on a treatment and have any other queries, please get in touch today with one of our friendly team. This can be done through our website at Contact olive Massage Leeds and Wakefield or call 07711 633 512 today. You can also check out our other blogs that provide more information on some of our most popular treatments. Helping you feel more comfortable during your massage.

As we approach the depths of winter, the risk of catching an illness is increased and our immune systems are shown to be weakened. This is why it’s imperative more than ever to focus on improving your health and well-being routine during these months. Looking after our bodies can help boost our immune system and fight off viruses more easily. Therefore, by actively using these processes, we are better equipped and less susceptible to illness when it spreads.

How is the Lymphatic system connected to the Immune system?

One way to implement changes to your routine is through Lymphatic Drainage Massages. This is the process of manually moving built up of fluids to other areas of the body that are less congested. As the Lymphatic structure is part of the immune system, it is vital this is functioning properly to ensure protection against invaders.

 

The Lymphatic system is capable of producing white blood cells that are used to fight off foreign bodies. This means it needs to be clear and able to flow freely in order to distribute these defenses. By performing Lymphatic Drainage massages, we are able to encourage movement by removing these barriers. This means your white blood cells are increased, thus leaving you less likely to fall ill.

Boosting the immune system through exercise

Additionally, another advantage of Lymphatic Drainage is an increase in mobility. As swelling is reduced, the range of movement is improved. Therefore, this makes exercising less painful and easier to do on a daily basis. It is shown that exercise can help regulate immune cell activity and also encourage the distribution of white blood cells. Regular movement can also increase the reproduction of older cells, recycling those previously used to strengthen the defense.

Reducing stress levels improves the immune system

Moreover, Lymphatic Drainage massages are often performed on patients who struggle with swollen, uncomfortable areas of buildup. This continuous discomfort can cause the sufferer high levels of stress and anxiety. However, when the area is relieved of congestion, patients often describe themselves as more relaxed. This decrease in stress levels is important when it comes to your immune system. Prolonged periods of stress can cause a reduction in lymphocytes, meaning it becomes increasingly harder to protect against illness. By bringing down levels of anxiety we can bring down the chances of this happening.

Reach out

If you are having problems with your Lymphatic system and think you would benefit from a Lymphatic Drainage Massage, please get in touch today to book. This can be done through our website at Select a location (gettimely.com) or call 07711 633 512 and our team will secure your booking.

To take a look at more advice for treatments we offer, check out our blogs!

What are lymphatic drainage massages?

Lymphatic drainage massages are designed to encourage the body to remove excess fluids from swollen areas. Small, manual movements are performed to stimulate the fluid movement. This pushes the build up toward areas less congested. It aims to control body fluid balance, improving the immune system, and maintaining good blood circulation.

How can surgery affect the body?

Firstly, surgery often comes with various side effects and impact on the body. This is very common and should be expected after a serious procedure. Some main symptoms include:

• Bruising
• Swelling
• Lack of appetite
• Tiredness
• Pain

When should you not have Lymphatic Drainage Massages?

Although the benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Massages are plentiful, there are occasions when it can be advised against. This could be due to its hands on approach or risk of high blood pressure. Some examples of conditions this applies to include:

• Previous history of Kidney problems
• Liver problems
• Strokes
• Having an infection at the time
• Blood clot history
• Diabetes
• Being treated with Chemo.

If you are unsure whether this applies to you, please contact your doctor for advice.

After which kind of surgery would Lymphatic Drainage massages be beneficial?

Unfortunately, Most surgeries cause some form of swelling afterward. However, Lymphatic Drainage is mostly recommended for those who have cosmetic procedures. This is due to the excess amount of swelling caused and the disruption to the lymphatic system. Additionally, those recovering from breast cancer surgery are more prone to lymphedema and also benefit from the treatment.

Benefits to lymphatic drainage massages after surgery

Notably, many surgeons do agree that incorporating Lymphatic Drainage into your post-op plan is favourable. Various implications come with having surgery and the recovery process is lengthy. However, research shows Lymphatic Drainage massages can help combat some of these problems. Consequently, this helps encourage a shorter healing time.

A list of these aids include:

• Reducing the appearance of scars and inflammation
• Stress release
• Improvement in mental health
• Removes tissue fluid sat still
• Reduces the amount of swelling
• Promotes wound healing process.

Can having a Lymphatic Drainage massages pre-surgery help?

Usually, it is often easier to look ahead to recovery after surgery. However, in some cases, preparing beforehand can have greater results. Complications such as infections can be reduced, and the tissues are prepared for draining. Having a set of one to three massages leading up to the surgery is enough to prepare the body and withstand changes.

Next steps

In conclusion, we hope this has enlightened you about Lymphatic Drainage Massages. Additionally, it has informed you on the benefits they offer after surgery. If you’d like to book a Lymphatic Drainage Massage, please call 07711 633 512 and our team will secure your booking.

Furthermore, don’t forget to check out our blogs for more tips and useful advice!

What is Myofascial cupping?

Myofascial cupping is a technique that uses pressure, created by suction cups, to relieve underlying tissue and improve blood flow towards problem areas. This soft tissue therapy aids healing by pulling blood toward the skin’s surface. This is often performed with either plastic, glass, or silicone cups.

Benefits of Myofascial Cupping?

Firstly, Myofascial Cupping has many positives. Coming under the physical therapy bracket, it mostly focuses on aiding problems related to physiological health. Examples of these advantages include:

• Relieving muscle pains
• Increase the range of movement for problem areas
• Reduction in swelling, tightness, or inflammation in problem areas
• Speeds up the reconstruction process
• Improves anaerobic metabolism
• Reduces the chances of excessive menstrual bleeding

What can Myofascial cupping help treat?

Additionally, Myofascial cupping is targeted to help a range of areas. Due to its capability to move around, specific problem parts can be focused on. This can include neck, back, and shoulders. Therefore, if you are experiencing muscle tension or pain in these areas, this treatment could be your answer. However, this should not be used if the following conditions apply to the patient:

• Liver or kidney problems
• Heart failure
• Haemophilia, anaemia, or other blood disorders
• Pregnant
• Elderly adults

Additionally, if you suffer from skin problems, such as sensitivity, this procedure may cause further complications and is not advisable.

What are the after effects?

Often the thought of suction cups can be off putting and seem scary. Nonetheless, the treatment shouldn’t be feared and is a painless procedure.

However, you still may experience short-term side effects which are temporary following the cupping. These can include:

• Mark left on the skin surrounding the cup
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Slight burning sensation

Please note these symptoms are rare and should only last a few days.

How to prepare for the procedure?

On the other hand, there are a few simple steps you can take before you come in for your treatment to ensure the best experience:

• Make sure to eat a light meal for a build-up in energy stores
• Drink plenty of water to keep hydrated and enhance detoxifying your body
• Relieve bladder beforehand

Next steps

Finally, we hope this has provided an insight into Myofascial cupping and the benefits it offers when incorporated into your daily life. Challenging the stigma behind the treatment and understanding this new therapy.

With this in mind, if you’d like to book a Myofascial Cuppng treatment, please call 07711 633 512 and our team will secure your booking. On the other hand, if you are interested in learning about the other treatments we have on offer, why not check out the previous blogs at https://olivemassage.com/blog/ .

Back Pain effects 80% of adults, so it’s no wonder we’re trying to find ways to ease the pain and get our mobility back. We believe Deep Tissue Massages are the future…

What is a Deep Tissue Massage?

Deep Tissue Massages are used to physically help alleviate the pain by targeting the problem areas and breaking down scar tissue formed around them. Typically, the massage will start with a lighter touch warm-up to prepare the muscles. This covers a wider surface area and is used to discover where the patient needs more focus. Specific areas are then targeted, and more pressure is applied. Slow, deep movements are used to reach the inner layer of muscles and connective tissue.

What causes back pain?

With 80% of Adults experiencing back pain during their lifetime, it’s an issue that many of us suffer from and often seems impossible to treat. A common cause for back pain is often injury-related and a result of physical damage such as sprains/strains to the muscles or fractures to the spine. These may be the result of poor lifestyle choices that over time put pressure on the muscles and leads to pain. However, occasionally it may be caused by other medical conditions including Arthritis, Scoliosis, or Osteoarthritis. These are often more severe cases and should be discussed with a doctor for the best treatment options.

What are the benefits of Deep Tissue Massages?

When experiencing back pain there are often things that the sufferer isn’t able to do that can affect day-to-day life, such as strenuous activities and sitting still for long durations. Through focused pressure on these problem areas, we are able to relieve pain and introduce more movement. We believe Deep Tissue Massages are integral to support recovery and find our clients often describe their problems go, or are significantly reduced after receiving the treatment. Some additional benefits include lower blood pressure, reduction in stress, and improvement in overall mental health.

Do Deep Tissue Massages hurt?

After hearing the word ‘deep tissue’, it’s understandable many people have reservations about pain tolerance within this treatment. It’s important to understand that within Deep Tissue Massages there needs to be a certain level of pressure to relieve tension and break up muscle knots. However, here at Olive Massage, we believe communication is key, and before the procedure, we think it’s important to understand the client’s personal pain levels so that we can cater to this. It may be uncomfortable, but no massage should be intolerable.

How to prepare?

Want to receive the most of out your Massage? Here are some steps we recommend doing before you come to your appointment:

• Empty your bladder before
• Avoid large meals
• Take a hot shower to relax your muscles
• Light exercise to warm up the muscles

Next steps

We hope this has enlightened you about Deep Tissue Massages and the benefits they can offer. If you’d like to book a Deep Tissue Massage, please call 07711 633 512 and our team
will secure your booking. Don’t forget to check out our blogs for more tips and useful advice! for more tips and useful advice.

With many people struggling from swelling and congestion in their arms and legs, Lymphatic Drainage Massages are designed for Lymphoedema sufferers. But how effective is this treatment? Read on to find out about our upcoming most popular procedure here at Olive!

What is Lymphoedema?

Lymphatic Drainage massages are used to help clients suffering from Lymphoedema, but what is this?

Lymphoedema is a problem within the body’s lymphatic system, in which the vessels and glands are unable to drain excess fluids produced from the tissues. It presents itself in two types: Primary and secondary Lymphoedema. Primary is caused by genetics, often found within the earlier stages of life whereas secondary is caused by infections, cancer treatments, or lack of movement. It’s often found Lymphoedema appears worse in the colder months for many patients due to an increase of dryness in the skin through the use of indoor heat but is present throughout the year.

An Introduction to Lymphatic Drainage

To combat these issues, it’s recommended to undergo treatments that help push this fluid to areas less congested and allow for more movement. One of these processes is manual Lymphatic Drainage massages, a hands-on approach where the masseuse physically directs this build-up. This technique aims to relieve pain and discomfort whilst primarily reducing swelling. Additionally, here at Olive, we also offer Lymphastim Pressotherapy, a treatment that uses a specialist machine to apply similar pressure to certain areas and move the fluid
around. Due to the precise nature of the machine, it’s able to offer more targeted pressure and help focus on specific problem areas.

How can Lymphatic Drainage Massages help?

It’s important to note that lymphoedema cannot be cured but this treatment is here to support the reduction in symptoms. The lymphatic system additionally plays a role in the immune system, causing sufferers to find it harder to fight off illnesses. By carrying out the therapy patients often see an improvement in their overall health and day-to-day living. This includes mental health benefits or being more mobile. In conjunction to this, a common symptom of Lymphoedema is the feeling of heaviness within the upper and lower limbs. This is due to fluid build-up causing swelling within these particular areas and a tightening sensation. Lymphatic drainage is targeted to divert the fluids from these areas and
help manage the extra weight.

Does Lymphatic Drainage Massages hurt?

Often there can be a misconception that this procedure is painful or irritating, however, when performed correctly the massage shouldn’t hurt (you must go to a trained professional when getting any lymphatic drainage massages in accordance with this). The treatment only affects the skin, so little pressure is used when performing the drainage, and infected areas are avoided to ensure no further damage is done. This also goes for Lymphastim Pressotherapy, although the suit may look daunting it’s intended to only apply enough pressure to alleviate the fluids, not hurt.

How to prepare?

These are some steps we encourage our clients to take to help prepare their bodies and get the best results from the massage:

• Drink plenty of fluids
• Avoid heavy meals before
• Wear minimal clothing
• Use a dry body brush at home and scrub skin to help lymphatic flow
• Relieve bladder before

Next steps

We hope this has provided an insight into Manual Lymphatic Drainage and the benefits it offers when incorporated into your well-being routine. If you’d like to book a Lymphatic treatment, please call 07711 633 512 and our team will secure your booking. Don’t forget to check out our blogs for more tips and useful advice!