Stress doesn't just happen in the mind.

When we are stressed we tense muscles, collapse or rigidify our posture, adopt restricted breathing patterns, develop unhealthy habits and generate a wide range of stress-related changes in our internal body systems (heart rate, blood pressure etc.).

Even if we're not conscious of these changes, they still get fed back to our brains through our nervous system.

This can contribute to us becoming even more uptight; reacting rather than responding to situations, becoming scared, anxious, angry, irritated or frustrated - and/or shutting down in various ways.

In the longer term, the changes brought about by stress can make us more prone to injury or illness, worsen existing medical conditions or contribute to the development of chronic disease.

Receiving nourishing touch as well as being able to share and discuss your concerns and unexpressed feelings with a caring, impartial person can help you to stop the spiralling cycle of stress and enable you to relax and unwind.

When you feel calmer and more connected with yourself, you see situations with more clarity, think more logically, and take actions which support a less stressful lifestyle.

You are also more able to create and maintain more peaceful and fulfilling relationships with others around you.

Becoming mindful of your body helps you to stay in the present moment, so that you are connected with life in a easier, more natural and spontaneous way.

When life starts to flow again, it stops being something to be fixed and starts being something that you relish and enjoy.

Taking time out to slow down a little - receiving touch - getting in touch with your body and your feelings - airing your concerns - these things are not just luxuries: they're a real investment in your health and in the quality of your life.

I am not currently taking on new clients but please email me to register an interest if you might like to pursue sessions in future.

"I first visited Vicki as a way of escaping temporarily. Life had become extremely pressurised, both at work and at home, due to family illness and all the stresses associated with running a business. I had become not only the main breadwinner but main housekeeper and a carer too. As Vicki and I worked together over the weeks we both noticed a change for the better for in the way I was able to cope with life. We have now worked together for several years. Her massage has been of great benefit to me. The sessions are what you want to make of them - just enjoyably relaxing or, if you wish to go deeper, they can make you examine your beliefs and prejudices - and allow you to change the way you live for the better. It's your choice, but whatever you choose, it's highly recommended."
[January 2008]