Touch brings the body into presence

 

Massage

Touch is vital for our physical and emotional balance and well-being.  A caring touch helps us to feel safe and connected. This enables us to deeply relax, recharge and reset the nervous system.

I offer 3 kinds of massage;
Aromatherapy, Hands-Free and Indian Head Massage.

Being an older woman myself, I am particularly interested in working with women aged 45 upwards.  As we mature,  we can sometimes feel less appreciated and visible.  I offer a warm space where your needs are understood and your choices respected.

 
I went to my first massage session with Caroline thinking that it would be pleasant enough but nothing very special.  I was totally amazed! I left feeling as light as a feather!  I have continued sessions ever since.
— Celia (retired)

 Aromatherapy Massage:

A full consultation is needed at the first appointment of 1.5 hours.  Subsequent appointments are for 1 hour unless you ask to book more time.  

Fragrant essential oils, such as Rose or Lemon-balm are carefully selected and blended in a base oil, such as Grapeseed.  The therapeutic blend reflects your personal needs and preferences. The massage is generally on the more gentle end of the scale. It can be modified at your request.

 Many physical, emotional, psychological and energetic complaints,  can be improved through Aromatherapy. Stress, low-mood, circulatory and dietary conditions can be supported.  An Aromatherapy session can provide a nourishing and soothing response to many, common life challenges. Requires undressing to your underwear. Your modesty will always be protected by using towels, sheets or gown

Aromatherapy Massage Cardiff | Caroline Martin

Book a free 20-minute consultation to discuss how Aromatherapy can help you. 


Hands-Free Massage: 

So called because the therapist uses other parts of the body to deliver the massage, as well as the hands.

I was trained in this modality by Darien Pritchard, one of the first teachers to develop Hands-Free Massage.

Hands-free massage can be a whole-body treatment, where you undress to your underwear.  It can also focus on a part of the body, such as the back or legs and feet.  Less undressing is needed if you choose not to have a full-body treatment.

The strokes, pressure and intensity of the work are stronger and deeper than in Aromatherapy, although always adjusted to your needs.  I may use arms, elbows and knuckles, in addition to massaging with the hands.  This is done with sensitivity, care and intelligence.

Base oil, such as Almond, Jojoba or Apricot kernel can be used, although you can ask that I don’t use any oil.  Sometimes, if you are not used to massage and feel self-conscious about undressing, it is possible to work over your clothes.

Hands-free Massage Cardiff | Caroline Martin

Book a free 30 minute consultation to discuss how Hands-Free Massage can work for you. 


Indian Head Massage:

This treatment can be provided lying on a massage table or sitting in a chair.  You need to remove all clothing from the upper body.  You are invited to wrap a large towel around you and the massage encompasses the head and scalp, face, neck, throat, shoulders, upper back, upper chest, arms and hands.

The treatment can be with or without oil.  You can request that certain areas be avoided if preferred.  It is advisable to attend without make-up.  This is an energising yet relaxing form of massage.  It is particularly nourishing for the scalp, hair and face and can be used to increase blood flow and reduce tension in these areas.  Stress and worry are often sited in the upper body and head. Providing particular attention to these regions can invite greater ease and help with headaches, insomnia, muscle tension and congestion

Book a free 30-minute consultation to discuss how Indian Head Massage can increase your well-being.

My approach to massage

The massage I offer is sensitive and intuitive.  I have been trained in working with the body and with energy.  My approach is subtle and invitational, whilst being deeply effective and transformative.

Everything I do is intended to help you to feel comfortable, safe and relaxed.  I will always consult you about how we are working together, to check if what I have in mind would feel nourishing and enjoyable for you.  We are co-creating the session. This is particularly important at the beginning of our work together, whilst we are getting to know each other.

Caroline makes you feel very relaxed and comfortable, playing gentle music, if requested. Her knowledge of the effects of essential oils shows in how she combines them to meet your personal needs. She has an instinctive feel for the areas of the body that need care due to tension and discomfort. I particularly enjoyed her technique of allowing the body’s natural movement and rhythm to be part of the massage. Caroline’s approach is creative and imaginative. I felt totally embodied and blissful afterwards and would highly recommend her.
— Linda S - volunteer co-ordinator