• Effleurage-Flat and relaxed hand - generally done at the beginning and ending of massage. Helps warm the skin and prepare
  for deeper work .
• Petrissage a compression stroke - such as kneading to help break down tension , improve elasticity in the muscle , aids relaxation.
• Frictions - A very deep technique , heavily stimulating on the blood flow.
• Circular - helps with lubrication of joint membrane.

• Percussions - These are invigorating strokes which will stimulate a muscle and mainly used over weekend atrophied muscles.
  

• Vibrations - A shake to the muscle to aid with relaxation , loosen adhesions ,generally used on calves and quadriceps.
  

• Neuromuscular techniques - This provokes a reflex in the nervous system , helps muscle to relax, reduce spasms and pain.

• Soft tissue release - technique that improves flexibility in a localised area of muscle or tendon.

• Muscle energy technique - Isometric contraction followed by a stretch , This technique inhibits the muscles spindles and Golgi tendon organs to allow an improvement in flexibility.
• Manual Lymphatic drainage - To encourage deep and superficial lymphatic drainage , light deep strokes working towards the heart.

When we receive body work (like a massage) it may result in what is known as healing crisis.

Healing crisis (herxheimer reaction) occurs when the body tries to eliminate toxins at a faster rate than the body can dispose of. The more toxins the more severe the healing crisis. It can be immediate or within several days after treatment. The reaction is a positive sign that the body is going through the process of clearing out impurities, toxins and imbalances.

Cleansing can be physical, emotional or spiritual, true healing involves all three. This is due to the body’s fascinating ability to store memories, emotions on the tissue, their recollection or release can accompany the manipulation of tissue. Suppressing emotions can lead to the emotions being stored in the body.