Welcome to our therapy practice. Anna Kratiuk has been a professionally qualified massage therapist since 2004 and has practised Aromatherapy since 2006. Holistic approaches to health and natural medicine have always been at the heart of Anna`a interests. She has explored eastern philosophies, oriental medicine, humanistic psychology, meditation, yoga and Tai-Chi, and currently studies Osteopathy.
`Holistic` describes an approach which recognizes the interdependence of physical, mental, environmental and spiritual heath. Holistic practitioners aim to understand factors such as lifestyle and environment to identify sources of stress, to then treat the `whole person` and the root of any health condition rather than just the ailment.
`I appreciate doing what is in keeping with my essential nature and, through my work, making a positive difference to the well-being of my clients as well as providing an environment of nurture and goodwill.
We`re all different and have our own unique issues, experiences, personalities and needs. Having a sound technical skill, I enjoy bringing an intuitive and personalized approach. My clients come from all walks of life and I`m happy to say I receive much positive feedback. `
Holistic Massage is the manipulation of the body`s soft tissue based on the Swedish technique. The therapist uses her hands and, drawing from her expertise as well as the client`s feedback, applies a range of strokes and pressure to suit the client`s needs. It can be a remedial treatment, directed towards particular muscles and parts of the body or a full body treatment of either soothing, or stimulating effect.
The widely therapeutic action of massage springs from the fact that most ill health is caused due to long term stress and anxiety which in turn leads to tight muscles, bad postural habits and, in the end, physiological problems. Massage counteracts the effects of stress on the body by increasing the blood flow to the muscles and organs, which in turn provides fresh oxygen and nutrients removing any waste products. As a result you feel refreshed and revitalized, and regular treatments are one of the easiest ways to maintain good health.
Numerous benefits of massage include: relief of muscular spasms and pains, e.g. back ache, better joint mobility, improvement of blood and lymph circulation and detoxification.
Mental and emotional effects of massage cannot be overstated. The simple instrument of massage- touch is age old and the most natural human way to convey care and warmth. Therefore hands-on therapies are known to greatly comfort and soothe the mind too. Massage also releases endorphines, the body`s 'feel good' hormones, giving an instant sensation of well-being.
During treatment the client is made comfortable on a couch or a chair, and at all times modestly covered with towels apart from the areas which are being massaged. High quality natural vegetable oils are used as a medium.
Indian Head Massage draws from an ancient tradition, and targets the areas of the body most prone to affliction by stress and in need of aid; the upper back, shoulders, neck and head. IHM can be adapted to requirements ranging from a 10 minute fully dressed 'on-site' session for tired office workers, to a 45 minute luscious treatment involving conditioning hair oiling and chakra balancing.
Indian Head Massage can provide relief from neck and shoulder stiffness, relieve mental tiredness and tension, as well as alleviate headaches, eye-strain, tinitus and insomnia. It promotes a sense of calmness and tranquillity and boosts alertness and concentration.
Aromatherapy is the application of therapeutic grade essential oils to the body in a variety of ways such as massage, inhalation, creams, lotions, compresses and baths. The incorporating of essential oils takes massage to a new level boosting any desired effects, whether physical or emotional.
Essential oils are pure plant extracts that retain the healing properties of the plant. The therapeutic use of aromatic plant extracts goes back into the mists of time where aromatic oils, herbs and incense were used for religious ceremonies, perfumery, embalming, hygiene and medicine. Each of the multitude of essential oils has its own specific set of therapeutic properties. They include promoting relaxation, alleviating a wide range of emotional problems such as anger, grief, anxiety, depression and insomnia. They strengthen the immune system, help manage aches and pains as well as aiding skin problems. Essential oils are usually blended together to create a unique 'synergy' of a desired effect and then diluted in a cold-pressed vegetable oil chosen according to the client`s skin type and other factors.
Anna wholeheartedly embraces ethical issues and sources my materials accordingly. The oils I work with are of the highest quality, often organic or wild crafted and fairly traded.
During aromatherapy massage, the essential oils are absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin as well as via inhalation through the nose. The tiny essential oil molecules also stimulate our odour receptors which are directly connected to the brain`s limbic system, the centre of emotions and memory. This is how the essential oils affect our moods and behaviour, as well as having an effect on our nervous system and physical body via the bloodstream.
Aromatherapy massage is a profoundly relaxing, nurturing and grounding experience. It is a great opportunity to balance and centre, `reconnect` with your body, thus boosting natural self-healing ability.
Testimonials
`Having never had a massage before, I was embarrassed at first but Anna soon put me at ease. It was a very calming and therapeutic session. This therapist`s touch is wonderful!`- June, a carer
` My neck feels much more relaxed, less stiffness and pain.` - Andy, an office worker
`An extraordinary experience. Exhilarating, soothing and restful.` -Michael, a photographer
`The massage has been consistantly good- the pressure and rhythm is just right for me ! I`ve recommended Anna without hesitation.` - Sandra, a mother
`Spiritually uplifting. Full of grace.` - Ian, a musician
Treatments can be combined and tailor made to suit the needs and requirements of the client.
Typical prices
£16 / 30 min treatment (e.g. a back massage, legs and feet massage, Indian Head Massage)
£ 20/ 40 min treatment (e.g. back of the body, Indian Head Massage(long),other partial treatments)
£ 30/1h treatment £ 40/ 80 min treatment (full body treatments)
On-site (offices, events) treatments:
Series of 5, 10 or 15- 20min sessions, paid by the hour or 1/2-daily (£30-first hour+£20 each subsequent hour, or as per contracts)
Tel: 01424 428 851, 07940441027
