Therapy Hub was set up by Jane Hobbs in 2006 to offer bespoke quality holistic health and beauty treatments in a quiet yet convenient part of Edgbaston – close to the Hagley Road.
Holistic Massage || Hot Stone Massage || Indian Head Massage || Reiki Healing || Hopi Ear Candles
Anti-Ageing Collagen facial || Men's facial & back massage || The Pregnancy massage || Baby massage
SERVICES
Jane also practises at the Renaissance Holistic Therapy Centre in Harborne and runs a weekly baby massage group at Newman House in Edgbaston.
Jane is a fully qualified, experienced and accredited Holistic Massage Therapist, Baby Massage Therapist, Pregnancy Massage Therapist and Holistic Facial Practitioner. She is qualified in several other therapies such as Hot Stone Massage, Indian Head Massage, Reiki and Hopi Ear Candles. Her approach is to combine the best elements of all these techniques to provide a memorable treatment uniquely tailored to a client’s exact needs. All treatments are given with the utmost care and professionalism.
Jane trained with, and is registered with, the Massage Training Institute (MTI). This body is dedicated to driving up standards and practices within massage in the UK to ensure that its practitioners are among the best qualified in terms of advanced massage techniques and in-depth knowledge of anatomy. She is also a member of the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) and the General Council for Massage Therapy (GCMT).
In addition to working as a busy therapist, Jane is also the writer of a monthly column on holistic health matters for Living Magazine - one of Birmingham's top lifestyle magazines.
"the time to relax is when you don't have time for it"
Holistic Massage
What it is:
Holistic Massage is so called because it benefits the body on both a physical and emotional level. It is a mix of light to firm strokes, using hands, fingers, thumbs, forearms and even elbows to provide a varied, enjoyable and therapeutic treatment.
Holistic Massage falls between Aromatherapy and Sports Massage. It is firmer than most Aromatherapy Massages and focuses on easing muscle tension but unlike Sports Massage it is not restricted to treating just the painful areas. Holistic Massage takes into account the needs of the whole body and will combine light soothing strokes with slow deep penetrating strokes designed to reach deep down into the tissue where tensions may be stored.
This variety of strokes effectively relaxes the body and the mind leaving you with a real sense of well-being.
The Benefits:- Relaxes tight muscles
- Eases painful joints and increases movement
- Speeds up the movement of toxins and other wastes through body
- Improves circulation, bringing oxygen and nutrients to the muscles to help them function better
- Improves flexibility and posture
- Reduces stress and calms the nervous system.
What to expect:
Following a brief consultation on your general health and any contra-indications to massage we will discuss your exact treatment requirements. These may be specific areas to work on which are tight or painful or you may simply want a general relaxing body massage.
Although you will be undressed for massage your body is always completely covered with towels. It is only the specific area being worked on which needs to be exposed. The focus is always on you feeling safe, comfortable and reassured.
Following the massage there is a quick debrief to assess the effect of the treatment. If appropriate, aftercare advice may be given regarding ways to reduce muscle tension such as self-massage techniques or exercise.
Holistic Massage sessions can be either 60 or 90 minutes long. It is recommended that you book a 90 minute session for the first session which requires an initial consultation or if you require a full body massage.
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Hot Stone Massage
What it is:
Hot Stone Massage is the use of hot stones to provide heat and pain relief to the body. The stones are large smooth basalt (volcanic) stones, which are heated to around 50 degrees centigrade and retain their heat during the massage. The stones are used in three ways. First we use the heat from the stones to warm up the body and to apply the oil, and then the stones are used as massage tools to penetrate deep into tight muscles and work gently around painful joints. Finally the stones are placed on your body so that you can relax and enjoy the residual heat.
An optional part of this treatment is the use of cool marble stones following the application of heat. These are put on the body very quickly before the hot stones are re-applied to the body. The cold stones provide a stimulating contrast to the hot stones and refresh the body and mind.
The Benefits:
Hot Stone Massage:- Allows the heat to penetrate up to 3cms into tissues to reduce pain in muscles and joints
- Increases blood flow to muscles improving their function
- Eliminates waste products more quickly and stimulates detoxification
- Reduces tension in the body
- Relaxes the body both physically and mentally
Cold Stone Massage:- Eases congestion in tissues
- Soothes irritation
- Is anti-inflammatory so can help with injury
- Refreshes and stimulates
What to expect:
Similar to the holistic massage there will be a short consultation regarding relevant health issues and a discussion about areas, which need specific attention. The session will start with a normal massage of light to medium strokes before introducing the heat from the stones onto your body. Once the stones are cool enough to use on your body they will be used to massage deeply into muscle tissue and gently around joints. If desired cold stones are briefly applied to the area and followed once again by the hot stones. This pattern continues on each part of the body receiving massage.
Once the massage is over you will have a few minutes to relax, get dressed and drink plenty of water and we will then briefly discuss your treatment and provide any necessary aftercare advice.
As the process of using of stones is quite involved it is recommended that you have a 90 minute session particularly if a full body massage is required.
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Indian Head Massage
What it is:
Indian Head Massage is the massage of the upper body – the head, face, neck, shoulders, upper back and arms. Unlike traditional Indian Head Massage which is confined to the head, this version is more suited to helping redress problems such as tension in the neck and shoulders, aching back and poor posture – all symptoms of a typical western lifestyle where we spend much of our time stooped over a computer or a steering wheel.
Indian Head Massage provides physical relief from symptoms and also stimulates healing. It is particularly good for conditions such as headaches, sinus problems, eyestrain and insomnia.
The Benefits:- Increases blood supply to the brain to relieve mental fatigue, encourage clear thinking and improve concentration
- Releases endorphins which reduce pain and helps overcome and anxiety and depression
- Slows down breathing, reduces heart rate and blood pressure
- Encourages the body to rest and relax and helps sleeping patterns
- Relaxes the muscles of the head and upper body relieving tension
- Improves posture and flexibility
- Improves blood flow to the head and stimulates healthy growth of hair
- Stimulates the immune system and the lymphatic system by getting rid of toxins
What to expect:
There is a brief discussion of health issues, any medication taken and lifestyle details. However Indian Head Massage is likely to help everybody and there are few contra-indications. The treatment is taken fully dressed seated on an ordinary chair and generally no oil is used. The massage follows a sequence moving from the upper back to the shoulders, arms, neck and scalp and finishes with the face.
The client is encouraged to rest for a few minutes following the massage and drink plenty of water to continue to detox process. The effects of Indian Head Massage can be varied. Some people will feel very relaxed and sleepy while others will feel invigorated and revitalised. Whatever the result it is always a very positive outcome.
Indian Head Massage is probably the easiest of massages to receive. It requires no undressing, usually no application of oil and can be done sitting up in a chair.
An Indian Head Massage session will normally last 60 minutes.
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Reiki Healing
What it is:
Reiki (pronounced Ray Key) originated in Japan and is a form of hands on natural healing using the energy all around us to heal. It is based on Oriental belief, which says that illness and disease are caused by a blockage or imbalance in our energy channels (meridians). During a Reiki session the energy is channelled into the body via the therapist’s hands to balance and unblock these channels and so kick-start the healing process to make us feel better.
The energy will go to where it is needed and will put you into a state of complete relaxation, which releases tension and anxiety and starts the healing process. Reiki healing can help you deal with a number of physical and emotional problems and at the very least it gives you a feeling of well-being and peace as the body and mind unwind.
The Benefits:- Naturally restores the body’s balance and promotes good health
- Stimulates healing and reduces pain
- Enables us to think clearer and more optimistically
- Promotes deep relaxation and a reduction in stress
- Stimulates the elimination of wastes from the body and helps speed up detoxification
- Works together with other traditional and complementary treatments and increases effectiveness
- Revitalises the mind and the body
What to expect:
Reiki is safe and suitable for everyone and there are no contra-indications. Most people will receive Reiki lying on a couch fully clothed and covered with a blanket although you can have it seated if preferred. The therapist will lightly touch or will hover her hands above positions over the body - around three minutes over each spot – enough time for the energy to move into the body. The main positions are over the head, face, upper chest, stomach, shoulders and back.
Those receiving Reiki may feel heat from the practitioner’s hands. Other sensations include feeling coolness or tingling but these are always pleasant and reassuring feelings. Sometimes a Reiki session can bring out emotions in people, which is a good sign of ‘letting go’. Again whatever emotion is released is a positive move.
Reiki normally lasts for 60 minutes and includes a relaxation period at the end.
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Hopi Ear Candles (Thermo-Auricular Therapy)
What it is:
Hopi Ear Candles are used to relieve problems of the ears, sinuses, nose, throat and head as well as stimulate the lymph system. Hopi means ‘people of peace’ and the candles were originally used by the native American Hopi Indians as part of their healing rituals.
The Hopi Ear Candle is light and hollow and when inserted into the ear the candle acts as a chimney and uses a mild suction to draw out wax, dust and other impurities, which may irritate and cause problems in the ear. The chimney affect also causes a vibration to the eardrum, which immediately regulates the pressure in the inner ear and in the sinuses reducing pain. This is particularly helpful when flying! Children with Glue Ear will often benefit from a course of Hopi Ear Candles and this can save them from needing an operation to fit grommets.
The Benefits:- Relieve migraines and tension headaches
- Help unblock sinuses and releases built up pressure
- Reduce noises in the ear such as tinnitus
- Can help with dizziness and restore balance when there is a problem with the inner ear
- Reduce the symptoms of colds, flu, sore throats, tonsillitis and hay fever
- Help reduce snoring!
- Reduce wax build up which can lead to deafness
- Promotes better concentration and clearer thinking
- Relax and calm the mind and are a good stress antidote
- Effective treatment for Glue Ear in children (as long as grommets haven’t been fitted)
What to expect:
You will need to answer a few questions relating to any relevant current conditions such as whether you suffer from migraines or how many colds you have in a year. Although there are few contra-indications such as a recent perforated eardrum, a current ear infection or grommets in place in children Hopi is a safe, effective and enjoyable treatment.
During the treatment the therapist carefully inserts the lit candle into the ear and you will hear a gentle crackling sound which is a very relaxing sensation causing many people to fall asleep. The burning time for each candle is 10 – 12 minutes. One both ears been treated you then receive a relaxing face and scalp massage which will enhance the effects of the candles and take you into an even more relaxed state. We will discuss how you are feeling following the treatment and to what extent your symptoms are alleviated. For some conditions – such as Glue Ear you will need three or four sessions. Again this treatment can simply be used as relaxation.
A Hopi Ear Candle session normally takes between 45 and 60 minutes.
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Anti-Ageing Collagen facial
What it is:
The anti-ageing facial brings together the best elements of a traditional facial including cleansing, the use of a collagen gel mask, toning and moisturising with a thorough massage of the face, neck and upper chest area. The massage sequence offers an effective mix of upward strokes, circling, tapping, acupressure point massage and lymph drainage movements. The combination of these movements stimulate the circulation, bring oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells, relax tension in the muscles and remove waste products to ensure your skin is glowing and lines are softened.
The massage is carried out using Rose oil. This is one of the best oils available and is known for its rejuvenating properties. The oil and other rose-based products used in this facial are blended by Penny Price, one of the UK’s leading aromatherapists. They are all organic and free from parabens, lanolin, mineral oil, synthetic perfume and animal products. The range suits the most sensitive of skins and will actively help conditions such as eczema, dermatitis and rosacea.
The Benefits:- Helps soften lines and wrinkles
- Improves skin tone and gives a glow to the complexion
- Targets problem areas such as tightening a loose jaw, smoothing frown lines and reducing puffiness around the eyes
- Takes away tension and eases tight muscles in chest, neck, shoulders and head
- Leaves you completely relaxed and gives you a sense of well-being.
What to expect:
The 60 minute treatment starts with a thorough cleanse and massage to the face, neck and upper chest. A collagen gel mask is then applied and left for up to five minutes while you enjoy a massage to the shoulders and upper arms. Once the mask has been removed, the massage with the rose oil begins. The treatment moves up the body from the upper chest, to the neck and face. All the strokes are applied in an upward direction to give lift to the area and to ensure the delicate skin is not dragged. The oil is then removed with the rose toner before moisturiser and eye cream are applied to complete the treatment.
While improvement in the skin should be seen from the first treatment, a number of treatments are recommended to get the optimum results and to encourage the skin to lift and tone to its maximum effect. A course of five – taken at weekly intervals – is suggested followed by a monthly maintenance treatment.
The facial can be combined with a half hour Indian Head Massage or Neck, Back and Shoulder massage for a complete holistic experience.
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Men's facial and back massage combo
What it is
This is a combination treatment, which starts off with a 30-minute back, neck and shoulder massage and finishes with a 30 minute facial using a 100% natural men’s product range. The massage is firm and therapeutic and will ease tight muscles and generally reduce tension in the upper body while the facial which includes a facial massage sequence will leave the face glowing and lines and wrinkles less visible.
The Benefits
Massage will:- Relax tight muscles
- Ease painful joints and increases movement
- Speed up the movement of toxins and other wastes through body
- Improve circulation, bringing oxygen and nutrients to the muscles to help them function better
- Improves flexibility and posture
- Reduces stress and calm the nervous system.
Facial and Facial Massage will:- Cleanse, tone and moisturise the skin
- Help soften lines and wrinkles
- Improve skin tone and gives a glow to the complexion
- Target problem areas such as tightening a loose jaw, smoothing frown lines and •reducing puffiness around the eyes
- Take away tension and eases tight muscles in chest, neck, shoulders and head
What to expect
The back, shoulder and neck massage you receive will use a mix of strokes from slow gentle strokes to firm therapeutic moves which are not only relaxing but will effectively ease tight and sore muscles and improve flexibility and joint mobility. The massage will take in the whole of the back, shoulders, neck and scalp to leave the upper body relaxed and free from muscle aches. The facial includes cleanser, mask and moisturiser using completely natural products, which are based on sandalwood, lime and black spruce. Following the cleanse and mask you will receive a complete facial massage sequence to help reduce lines and leave the skin feeling cleansed, hydrated and smooth.
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The Pregnancy massage
What it is
There is no better time for a woman to receive massage than during pregnancy in her second and third trimester. As a qualified pregnancy massage therapist I can provide a treatment which is safe, wonderful to receive and has numerous benefits to counteract the equally numerous aches and pains women go through during pregnancy. The pregnancy massage tends to be a full body massage - excluding the stomach – but as with all true holistic massages will be adapted according to your exact needs. The massage is taken side-lying with towels placed to support your tummy and legs. Most massages will concentrate on traditional problem areas such as lower back pain and will introduce manual lymphatic drainage processes to help reduce swollen ankles.
Pregnancy massage can take place from 12 weeks onwards - assuming that you are fit and healthy and have no conditions that present a threat to either you or your baby. If in doubt you would need to refer to your GP.
The Benefits:- Stretch muscles and help with the flexibility of joints - the skeleton comes under considerable pressure during pregnancy as the joints are loosened to accommodate growth while the muscles tighten for the same reason.
- Induce relaxation – pregnancy and the thought of childbirth can make you anxious – and understandably so! Massage will calm you, help deepen your breathing and lower your heart rate – good for baby too.
- Detox the body and replenish skin tissue – massage increases circulation and brings more oxygen and nutrients into the cells. As a result you should gain a glowing complexion and lose the excess fluid in your system which can both congest the skin and lead to swollen limbs.
- Increase immunity and have a positive effect on our endocrine system (hormones!). How effective our endocrine system is, is in direct correlation with how relaxed we are. As we relax through massage our immunity is increased.
What to expect:
The session will start with a health consultation to check that you can receive massage and a discussion regarding your exact requirements. It may be that you want massage simply to relax or it may be that you are looking for more therapeutic benefits. Massage will address both these areas.
If you have opted for a full body massage, one side of your body from the foot to the head will be worked and then you will turn over and the other side will receive the same treatment. The massage will incorporate gentle to firm strokes over the entire body (excluding the stomach). If required this massage can incorporate manual lymphatic drainage techniques which are effective in reducing swollen ankles and other limbs.
A full body massage will be a 90 minute session and a part body massage will take 60 minutes.
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Baby massage
What it is
Baby massage is available either as a group session or as a one-to-one session. Whichever session you choose you will learn how to do a full body massage on your baby, which will encourage bonding between you and your baby and will give you the confidence to handle your baby if you are a new parent. It also has a number of physical and emotional benefits for both baby and parent. Baby yoga and baby reflexology are also incorporated into the teaching. The ideal age for baby massage is from 6 weeks to pre-toddling.
Group Sessions
The group sessions are run as five weeks programmes which ensure that even with ‘off days’ babies get plenty of massage and parents plenty of tuition. The classes have a maximum of ten babies, which is large enough to offer the opportunity to socialise with other parents but small enough to be able to see and follow the massage sequence without too many distractions. The sessions are very informal and the emphasis is on fun.
Group sessions take place at Newman House in Edgbaston. This is an ideal venue in Harrisons Road, close to Blue Coat School. It has a large on-site car park
One-to-One Sessions
This will show you how to do a full body massage on your baby in a tailored one-to-one tuition session with you. As in the group sessions, the tuition will also include baby yoga and baby reflexology.
These will normally be done in your home and can be combined with a holistic treatment if desired – giving both you and your baby a treatment.
The Benefits:- Helps relieve a number of physical symptoms including colic, wind and constipation
- Strengthens baby’s immune system
- Stimulates all body systems
- Improves blood circulation and flow of oxygen around the body
- Helps remove toxins
- Increases joint suppleness and prepares muscles for crawling
- Helps sleep patterns
- Nourishes the skin and helps conditions such as eczema and cradle cap
- Calms and soothes baby and parent
What to Expect:
In both group and one-to-one sessions I demonstrate all the moves on a life size baby doll while you work alongside me with your own baby. While the emphasis is on massage we also introduce yoga, reflexology and stretching exercises into the sessions to ensure a varied and exciting programme of activity over the five weeks. The massage is done on the floor on a large padded quilt. Those taking part will need to bring a changing mat and a large towel to wrap their baby in. A small bottle of pure sunflower oil and a printed copy of the massage routine is provided for each person attending the baby massage sessions.
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Service Categories
Ear Candling, Holistic Massage, Indian Head Massage, Infant Massage, Pregnancy Massage, Reiki, Stone Therapy Massage
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