May massage offer

Digestive problems? Bloated stomach, excess gas, knotted stomach, stress?

A stomach (or abdominal) massage has a number of benefits and is used to treat a wide variety of health concerns, especially those related to the stomach, such as digestion issues, constipation, and bloating.

The stomach is often referred to as our “little brain”, as this quote from a 2012 BBC article shows:

“My stomach … is under the control of what’s sometimes called “the little brain”, a network of neurons that line your stomach and your gut.

Surprisingly, there are over 100 million of these cells in your gut, as many as there are in the head of a cat.

The little brain does not do a lot of complex thinking but it does get on with the essential daily grind involved in digesting food – lots of mixing, contracting and absorbing, to help break down our food and begin extracting the nutrients and vitamins we need.

And all those neurons lining our digestive system allow it to keep in close contact with the brain in your skull, via the vagus nerves, which often influence our emotional state.

For instance when we experience “butterflies in the stomach”, this really is the brain in the stomach talking to the brain in your head. As we get nervous or fearful, blood gets diverted from our gut to our muscles and this is the stomach’s way of protesting.”

For the full article, click here.

During a Just Massage abdominal massage, we alternate gliding, draining and vibratory movements in order to relax the stomach, aid elimination of toxins and improve blood circulation. Meridian points are massaged to allow energy to circulate and to re-balance your chi, the life-force energy circulating through the body. The stomach is massaged in a clockwise direction and kneaded to evacuate excess gas, relieve bloating and ease digestion.

Try out a relaxing stomach massage

A 40-minute abdominal massage is on special offer this month at 30€ instead of 35€.

Just call 06.47.14.06.03 for an appointment.

Offer does not apply to Gift Vouchers. Valid up to and including 31 May 2023.

Just Massage offers home massage in and around the Mérignac and Pessac area (near Bordeaux, France).

Reminder April massage offer

Discover the benefits of a Swedish massage this month :

40€ instead of 50€ for a one-hour massage.

Valid up to and including 30th April 2023.

Offer does not apply to gift vouchers.

Just call 06.47.14.06.03 for an appointment.

What is so different about a Swedish massage?

Swedish massage is a popular type of massage therapy that originated in Sweden in the 19th century. It is a form of therapeutic massage that involves the manipulation of soft tissues such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments to promote relaxation and improve circulation. The techniques used in Swedish massage have evolved over time and have become the foundation for many other types of massage therapies.

History of Swedish Massage

Swedish massage was developed in the 19th century by a Swedish physician named Per Henrik Ling. Ling developed a system of therapeutic massage techniques that he called “Medical Gymnastics,” which included five basic strokes (see below). These techniques were designed to promote relaxation, increase circulation, and relieve pain and tension in the muscles.

Benefits of Swedish Massage

Swedish massage has many benefits for the body and mind, including:

1. Relaxation – Swedish massage can help reduce stress and promote relaxation by releasing tension in the muscles and promoting the release of endorphins.
2. Improved Circulation – The massage strokes used in Swedish massage can help increase blood flow and oxygenation to the muscles and other tissues, which can help promote healing and reduce inflammation.
3. Pain Relief – Swedish massage can help relieve pain and tension in the muscles and joints, which can be especially beneficial for those who suffer from chronic pain conditions.
4. Improved Flexibility – By releasing tension in the muscles and increasing circulation, Swedish massage can help improve flexibility and range of motion.

The ultimate pamper experience in the comfort of your home

Techniques Used in Swedish Massage

Swedish massage typically involves the use of five basic techniques:

1. Effleurage – This is a gliding or sliding stroke that is used to warm up the muscles and prepare them for deeper work.
2. Petrissage – This is a kneading stroke that involves squeezing and lifting the muscles to release tension and increase circulation.
3. Tapotement – This is a rhythmic tapping or drumming stroke that can be used to stimulate the muscles and promote relaxation.
4. Friction – This involves using circular or cross-fibre strokes to break up adhesions and knots in the muscles.
5. Vibration or Shaking – This involves using a rapid shaking or vibration technique to stimulate the muscles and promote relaxation.

Just Massage offers home massage in and around the Mérignac and Pessac area (near Bordeaux, France).

Perfect pampering with a home massage

My little herb garden – lemon balm

I’ll admit to trying out Chat GPT for this post, but as I do grow lemon balm in my garden, I’ve not blithely copied what AI has given me, I have actually checked it, and the recipes coming in later posts are from other (non-AI) sources!

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a fragrant herb that belongs to the mint family. It has been used for its medicinal properties for thousands of years and is native to the Mediterranean region.

A little history

Lemon balm has a long history of use in traditional medicine, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. The herb was believed to have a calming effect on the mind and was often used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and depression. It was also used to improve digestion and treat menstrual cramps.

Where to find/how to grow it

Lemon balm is native to the Mediterranean region but is now grown in many parts of the world. It prefers a sunny location and well-draining soil and can be grown in a garden or in a container.

Properties and uses

Lemon balm is known for its many health benefits, including:

1. Calming effect – Lemon balm has a calming effect on the mind and can help reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve sleep.
2. Digestive health – Lemon balm can help improve digestion and relieve symptoms such as bloating, gas, and indigestion.
3. Immune support – Lemon balm has antiviral and antibacterial properties, making it a useful herb for supporting the immune system.
4. Skin health – Lemon balm can help soothe skin irritations and promote healthy skin. It can help relieve symptoms of cold sores caused by the herpes virus.

Cosmetic uses

Lemon balm is also used in cosmetic products for its skin-soothing and antioxidant properties. It can be found in creams, lotions, and other skincare products.

Just Massage offers home massage in and around the Mérignac and Pessac area (near Bordeaux, France)

April massage offer

Discover the benefits of a Swedish massage this month :

40€ instead of 50€ for a one-hour massage.

Valid up to and including 30th April 2023.

Offer does not apply to gift vouchers.

Just call 06.47.14.06.03 for an appointment.

What is so different about a Swedish massage?

Swedish massage is a popular type of massage therapy that originated in Sweden in the 19th century. It is a form of therapeutic massage that involves the manipulation of soft tissues such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments to promote relaxation and improve circulation. The techniques used in Swedish massage have evolved over time and have become the foundation for many other types of massage therapies.

History of Swedish Massage

Swedish massage was developed in the 19th century by a Swedish physician named Per Henrik Ling. Ling developed a system of therapeutic massage techniques that he called “Medical Gymnastics,” which included five basic strokes (see below). These techniques were designed to promote relaxation, increase circulation, and relieve pain and tension in the muscles.

Benefits of Swedish Massage

Swedish massage has many benefits for the body and mind, including:

1. Relaxation – Swedish massage can help reduce stress and promote relaxation by releasing tension in the muscles and promoting the release of endorphins.
2. Improved Circulation – The massage strokes used in Swedish massage can help increase blood flow and oxygenation to the muscles and other tissues, which can help promote healing and reduce inflammation.
3. Pain Relief – Swedish massage can help relieve pain and tension in the muscles and joints, which can be especially beneficial for those who suffer from chronic pain conditions.
4. Improved Flexibility – By releasing tension in the muscles and increasing circulation, Swedish massage can help improve flexibility and range of motion.

The ultimate pamper experience in the comfort of your home

Techniques Used in Swedish Massage

Swedish massage typically involves the use of five basic techniques:

1. Effleurage – This is a gliding or sliding stroke that is used to warm up the muscles and prepare them for deeper work.
2. Petrissage – This is a kneading stroke that involves squeezing and lifting the muscles to release tension and increase circulation.
3. Tapotement – This is a rhythmic tapping or drumming stroke that can be used to stimulate the muscles and promote relaxation.
4. Friction – This involves using circular or cross-fibre strokes to break up adhesions and knots in the muscles.
5. Vibration or Shaking – This involves using a rapid shaking or vibration technique to stimulate the muscles and promote relaxation.

Just Massage offers home massage in and around the Mérignac and Pessac area (near Bordeaux, France).

Perfect pampering with a home massage

Reminder March massage offer

Do you work in front of a computer all day? Are your shoulders tense, your neck stiff, your eyes tired?

De-stress and chase away those tensions in your upper body with an Indian Head massage.

Traditional Indian Head Massage is based on the ancient system of medicine known as Ayurveda (the science of life and longevity in Sanskrit) and has been practised for thousands of years. The Ayurvedic approach to health is holistic, balancing the body, mind and spirit and promoting long life.

Indian Head Massage, as its name suggests, was originally designed for use on the head, but has been Westernized to include the shoulders, upper arms and neck. As such it has become popular as a stress management technique.

Ease stress with an Indian Head Massage

Indian Head Massage can:

• Relieve muscular tension and fatigue
• Improve circulation
• Help relieve emotional stress and elevate the mood
• Help improve the condition of the skin and hair
• Help relieve mental fatigue, promote clearer thinking, improve concentration and increase productivity

Massaging the scalp

Indian Head massage is traditionally given in a seated position. We use a special table head rest to allow you to relax more during the treatment. There is no need to undress but the massage can be more enjoyable if your upper back is uncovered so we can use oils. However, if you prefer to lie down on a massage table, it’s not a problem.

Throughout the month of March we are offering a discount on our Indian Head massage:

30€ instead of 35€ for a 40 minute massage.

40€ instead of 50€ for a one hour massage (includes a faical massage)

Valid up to and including March 31st 2023.

Offer does not include gift vouchers.

Just call 06.47.14.06.03 for an appointment

Just Massage offers home massage in and around the Mérignac and Pessac area (near Bordeaux, France).

How to beat anxiety

In a recent UK poll, 1 in 5 adults said they felt more anxious now than five years ago, and as many as 57% said they worried about their health – without actually going to a doctor to sort it out.

Anxiety can have a number of sources. It is one of the first signs of the menopause though rarely recognised as such.

Our world has changed radically in the last 20 years with the generalisation of the interet and smartphones, so we can be easily overwhemed by our highly connected worlds, and have difficulty switching off.

Here are a few everyday tips:

Learn to say NO

Put yourself first and say no to the demands of others. If you say yes to please people or make them value you more, give a polite no instead (“Thank you very much for asking me, I’d really like to help but….”)

Exercise

Physical activity is known to diminish stress and stimulates endorphins in the body, nature’s feelgood hormone. It doesn’t have to be a run in the park (I hate running!) but something fun like dancing around the sititng room to your favourite tunes, or pottering in the garden.

Breathe it out

Breathe more deeply and slowly. This stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system which will move you from anxious to relaxed.

Weave calm into your day

Slow down, literally. Rushing around to get things done won’t necessarily get them done quicker! Doing things calmly is a lot less tiring, so you’ll get more done.

Take on a more relaxed posture. If you sit on the edge of your seat or fidget, sit back into your chair with your palms flat on your lap or on the arms of the chair.

Take a break, several in fact, even if it’s only 15 minutes.

Don’t watch TV too much as this stimulates the brain. Try meditation, light exercise or just lying on your bed with your eyes closed to relax your mind.

Boost your immunity

Spring is on it’s way but it’s never too late to think about giving your immune system a boost, there are bugs out there all year round.

Try a few store cupboard ingredients for starters.

Lemons

Battle viruses with lemonade – the homemade sort of course, not the fizzy one full of sugar!

Lemons contain vitamin C which is great for your immune system.

Drinking HOT lemonade is a great way of warming up as well on a cold day!

Try this recipe (from herbalist Tipper Lewis, courtesy of prima .co.uk):

HOT LEMONADE

Grate 3 cm of ginger (anti-inflammatory) in a small pan. Add 400ml of water and bring to the boil. Turn the heat down and simmer for 15 min.

Strain, add zest and juice of 1 lemon (anti-bacterial). Stir in 1 tbsp honey (natural antibiotic) and add the mint (anti-bacterial).

Sip the tea slowly and you can even eat the mint leaves!

Ginger

In Chinese medicine, ginger is eaten to boost immunity. Add it to everything from stir-fries to soups. Try crystallized ginger for a sweet option.

March massage offer

Do you work in front of a computer all day? Are your shoulders tense, your neck stiff, your eyes tired?

De-stress and chase away those tensions in your upper body with an Indian Head massage.

Traditional Indian Head Massage is based on the ancient system of medicine known as Ayurveda (the science of life and longevity in Sanskrit) and has been practised for thousands of years. The Ayurvedic approach to health is holistic, balancing the body, mind and spirit and promoting long life.

Indian Head Massage, as its name suggests, was originally designed for use on the head, but has been Westernized to include the shoulders, upper arms and neck. As such it has become popular as a stress management technique.

Ease stress with an Indian Head Massage

Indian Head Massage can:

• Relieve muscular tension and fatigue
• Improve circulation
• Help relieve emotional stress and elevate the mood
• Help improve the condition of the skin and hair
• Help relieve mental fatigue, promote clearer thinking, improve concentration and increase productivity

Massaging the scalp

Indian Head massage is traditionally given in a seated position. We use a special table head rest to allow you to relax more during the treatment. There is no need to undress but the massage can be more enjoyable if your upper back is uncovered so we can use oils. However, if you prefer to lie down on a massage table, it’s not a problem.

Throughout the month of March we are offering a discount on our Indian Head massage:

30€ instead of 35€ for a 40 minute massage.

40€ instead of 50€ for a one hour massage (includes a faical massage)

Valid up to and including March 31st 2023.

Offer does not include gift vouchers.

Just call 06.47.14.06.03 for an appointment

Just Massage offers home massage in and around the Mérignac and Pessac area (near Bordeaux, France).

DIY rejuvenation 3

Our final tips for recharging body and soul.

1. De-puff your face

Make gentle fists with both hands and place on either side of your chin, knuckles above your jawline and the pads of your thumbs below.

Sweep your knuckles down to meet your thumbs in a pinching motion and repeat along your jawline up to your ear on either side.

Then use your knuckles and thumbs to make similar pinching and lifting motions across your cheek and brow.

(from facialist Abigail James)

2. De-stress in an instant

You will need an aromatherapy roller ball for this – but I have jade face roller which should work too, with essential oils.

Roll on the inside of your wrists, rub together, inhale for a count of three and exhale for five.

You can also rub it across your chest from the centre out, inhale, and roll back to exhale.

3. A bit of mindfulness

Start the day mindfully by drinking your tea/coffee/herbal tea whilst listening to meditation audio tracks. Don’t look at your phone until you are out of the door.

At the end of the day, wind down with a face mask and herbal tea- and no phone!

Adapted from Good Housekeeping magazine May 2019

DIY rejuvenation 2

More tips for recharging body and soul:

1. A winter cleanse

If your winter skin is looking dull and tired, try this cleanse.

Apply a thick layer of your favourite cleanser while you relax in the bath (I don’t have a bath, so it’ll have to be a shower!) for five minutes.

Remove it with a damp face cloth.

The steam helps your cleanser penetrate for a thorough cleanse and fresher-looking skin.

You can also get the same effect by steaming your face over a bowl of hot water and a towel over your head, adding some essential oils for extra calming.

2. A healing magnesium soak

(A good one to combine with the cleanse).

Throw a handful of magnesium flakes in your bath to help relax your mind and body. No bath, like me? Then soak your feet in a bowl of magnesium flakes instead.

Magnesium facilititates over 300 reactions in the body and can help to ease aches and pains. It stimulates the production of serotonin to help you feel calm.

Soak for at least 20 minutes.