"Healing begins when we connect to the source of our discomfort and embrace it with love and compassion." Brita
Combining principles of mind, body, and spirit to improve wellbeing Brita works from her beautiful, calm, home-studio in Oxford
Holistic Treatments
Shiatsu Therapy Holistic Massage & Therapeutic Bodywork Hot Stone Massage 1-1 & small group Hatha Yoga & Relaxation Classes
Shiatsu - in brief
Benefits
Prices
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Shiatsu originated in Japan and literally translates as ‘finger pressure’. The treatment involves non-invasive intuitive touch combined with highly skilled stretching, mobilisation and fascia release. Shiatsu works at a very deep level within the body and the positive effects of the treatment continue to work for up to five days after receiving a Shiatsu, affecting the body’s physical structures and internal organs, while at the same time allowing the body and mind to assimilate emotions.
I work on the whole body to help energy flow freely through the entire system, to stimulate the body's own innate ability to re balance and heal itself. A session lasts either an hour, or an hour and a half, and is given with the person fully clothed. It takes place in a calm and comfortable room, on a futon mat either on a massage couch or on the floor. Following an initial assessment of your health condition, treatment aims will be agreed, so that each session is unique and tailored to individual needs.
Shiatsu can benefit you physically, emotionally and psychologically - I've listed some of the many benefits below:
Helps chronic fatigue & general fatigue
Brings relief to a stressed state of mind
Helps with feelings of depression, anxiety and emotional imbalance
Brings relief to back pain
Helps with PMT, Menopause and hormonal issues
Develops good posture
Encourages harmony in the body and mind
Increases well-being and inner peace
"I went to see Brita originally due to back and shoulder aches which I thought were general 'stresses and strains', but gradually, under her guidance and through shiatsu therapy, I feel as though I am waking up and listening to my body for the first time in years. The changes were at first slight, but as the course continued I began to feel more positive about my health and my body for the first time in years. It has also made a beneficial impact on the way in which I work which has been astounding. I count myself very fortunate to have met Brita, and now encourage everyone I know to do the same!" Chris, Oxford
Therapeutic bodywork helps to address any specific needs you may have. I utilise various methods such as holistic massage, fascia release techniques, acupressure, postural and movement therapy to tailor a session unique to your needs. This treatment can get to the core of deeply held tensions, restore energy, aide mobility and give a heightened sense of well-being.
Warm basalt stones are placed on acupressure points and places of tension along the surface of the body. They encourage openness and help release deeply held stresses from within muscle groups, fascia and internal organs. Heat released from the stones aide relaxation, stimulating blood flow and revitalising the whole system. There is a flow and fluidity of movement throughout making this a powerful healing thermo treatment, physically very restorative and deeply calming for the mind.
Helps reduce symptoms of chronic fatigue & general fatigue Brings relief to back pain Helps with PMT, Menopause and hormonal issues Develops good posture Encourages harmony in the body-mind Increases well-being and inner peace General well being and relaxation
Gift Certificates Beautiful handmade gift certificates are available to purchase (virtual certificates also available) Prices start from £55 Cancellation policy: 24 hours notice is required to cancel a booking at no charge, after this time the full amount is payable. Concessions available: low income/students - please contact me to discuss.
"To know who one is, an individual must be aware of what he feels." Alexander Lowen
Shiatsu - in pictures
Self-care tips to try at home
Dry skin brushing - this is a fantastic thing to do if you suffer from poor circulation. Brushing the skin in this way stimulates the lymphatic system helping to eliminate toxins by kick starting a sluggish system. A skin brush can be purchased from a health food store or chemist. Here's how: Hold the brush softly but firmly against your bare skin sweeping it in long firm strokes up the arms, legs and torso (front and back) moving all the time towards the heart and stomach. Brush clockwise around the abdominal area 6 or 7 times. It's good to do this before you take a shower or a bath. On waking, drink a cup hot water into which you could squeeze some fresh lemon and add fresh slices of ginger and a spoonful of honey. This will help to stimulate your digestive system and give you a lift (better than coffee). Now you're all set for the day and it's only taken the time it took to boil a kettle!
Self Massage - using warm sesame or another good quality base oil, massage it well into your muscles, concentrating on areas of tension and discomfort. Take a few minutes to enjoy this process and get to know your body, where it holds stress and areas where relief can be found. Doing this regularly will really help you to feel more connected to yourself and builds confidence in your body as well as giving you a wonderful glow.
Bathing - add a tablespoon of bicarbonate of soda, a handful of salt to your bath water. Holding a fresh lemon under the warm water, cut the waxy skin to release the oil. Leave the lemon in the water for the duration of your bath. This will rejuvenate tired skin and invigorate your body. Great to do before bedtime to ensure a good nights rest.