Massage could be said to date back as far as the existence of humankind given touch is elemental and instinctive to us. For centuries we have been rubbing aching muscles, stroking the backs of our children to soothe them and holding each others hands. Massage is probably the oldest form of medical treatment and has been used throughout history by all cultures. The earliest written material regarding massage appears in a Chinese book dating about 2700BC in which "Stroking with the palm of the hand is advocated to alleviate the symptoms of a number of ailments.

Massage, as it is practised today, improves circulation, relaxes muscles and speeds up the elimination of waste products by stimulating the lymphatic system. Massage affects both the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, reducing the symptoms that cause negative sensory input and increasing positive input. It is an excellent complement to other medical treatments and a powerful means of maintaining a sense of wellbeing. Massage involves the systematic application of a variety of strokes including stroking, kneading, pressing and 'tapping' the soft tissue of the body.

Remedial massage involves the use of a more extensive range of techniques including friction and transverse stroking techniques to address fibrous adhesions or adhesions between ligaments and tendons, or muscles and bones, by literally pulling the adhesive bond apart. Massage is also able to stretch localised area of tissue not easily stretched on its own.

All these techniques are an effective means of breaking down what are commonly referred to as 'knots' in the body's tissue, and by doing so, free muscles to function without impediment. Massage is also hugely beneficial on physical, emotional and psychological levels, providing a calming respite from the rigours of daily life and an opportunity to explore and affirm the connection between mind, body and spirit.

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Robyn Gates O’Neil Reg. Reflexologist, Reiki (2nd Deg.), MTMA (NZ)

Robyn is a registered reflexologist and has a certificate in therapeutic massage and plans to complete her Diploma in Therapeutic Treatment Massage in 2007. She uses a variety of techniques, such as Vertical Reflexology Technique and hand reflexology. Her passion is in working with women’s health, fertility and pregnancy issues. In her spare time, Robyn is a keen walker and dancer and enjoys outdoor activities.

Annabel Gunn
NZQA Dip. Therapeutic Massage

Annabel holds a Diploma in Therapeutic massage. With a passion for natural health she believes in a holistic approach to both health and treatment. Annabel seeks to increase her client’s body awareness through her treatments. She uses various techniques including trigger point therapy, deep tissue, myofascial work and relaxation.

Claire Benson Rees Traditional Chinese Massage Practitioner, Dip. Tuina

Claire is a qualified Tuina massage therapist with a diploma from the NZ School of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Tuina massage is effective for the treatment of specific health issues as well as improving general health by a gentle rebalancing of the body.
Claire’s passion for Chinese medicine started in the UK, where she was successfully treated for asthma and allergic rhinitis. She is currently studying for a degree in Acupuncture and diplomas in Qi Gong and Chinese Herbal medicine. In her spare time she enjoys exploring the country in her campervan and walking up Mt Kaukau.