Equilibrium Massage & Bowen Therapies

Equilibrium Massage

We focus on the quality of life for  people undergoing treatment for cancer, or living with cancer, by helping to reduce physical and emotional stress.  Regaining  a state of equilibrium both physically (body systems balanced) and mentally (calm state of mind) can have a profound impact on the management of pain, nausea, depression, muscle and joint condition and functional capacity.

At Equilibrium Massage we provide specialised services in Oncology Massage, Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy, Bowen Therapy, Advanced Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage and Remedial Massage.

What Can Bowen Therapy Treat?

Bowen initiates the healing response in the body. The movements intervene with the brain’s signals to prompt the body to let go of tension, stress and emotional baggage, as well as restoring our posture back to the ‘blueprint’ alignment that we have stored innately in our brains. Fundamentally, Bowen Technique is all about the body doing the work; the therapist gives you a message, and the body does the rest.

Bowen Therapy is a  holistic technique that consists of different rolling ‘moves’ performed at different pressures, speeds and directions on small areas of the body – that could be anywhere from your head to your toes – it works to target the soft connective tissue, otherwise known as the fascia.

Bowen targets areas that are ‘frozen’ by releasing restrictions as well as resetting different type of nerve endings and receptors that control our movement, balance and muscle tension.   Unlike a massage, which uses muscle-moving kneading that can take the body into the stress-inducing fight or flight mode, Bowen movements or ‘releases’ are made at a pressure that the body doesn’t resist and don’t provoke its natural defence system.

What are the benefits Oncology Massage and Lymphatic Treatments ?

Oncology massage is similar to standard existing massage therapy techniques but has a number of modifications that will ensure your needs and those arising from complications related to the experience of cancer and cancer treatment, are managed in your best interest.   Anyone who has ever received cancer treatment, from those in active treatment to those in recovery or survivorship, as well as those in palliative care, can improve their sense of wellbeing and or comfort through the care of  a massage therapist who has received training in oncology massage.

At Equilibruim Massage we have an informed understanding of the cancer disease itself and the many ways it can affect the human body; the side effects of cancer treatments, such as medications, surgery, chemotherapy and radiation; and the ability to modify massage techniques in order to adapt for these side effects, as well as for the disease.

What Will An Oncology Massage Session  Be Like  ? 

Clinical assessments and adaptations to the massage session for someone experiencing cancer or with a history of cancer treatment are critical to providing a safe massage. Standard oncology massage intake questions will include those relating  to:

• cancer treatment history
• tumor site or metastasis
• compromised blood cell counts
• lymph node involvement
• blood clots or blood clot risk
• medications (short and long term)
• vital organ involvement
• fragile or unstable tissue
• medical devices
• fatigue, neuropathy or pain
• changes in sensation

Equilibrium Massage therapists will ask questions about these issues and more, depending on your unique situation.  Or therapists will provide a massage session that will address your current wellness needs and your wellness goals.