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Article orginally featured in the Solihull Adnews, 26th August 2005

MASSAGE MOVES WITH THE TIMES

by Rupi Gohlar

(Article originally featured in Solihull Adnews, 26th August 2005)

HAVING your body pummelled and pounded whilst lying face down is not everyone's idea of fun writes Rupi Gohlar.

But with the onset of the latest holistic therapy, that could be a thing of the past. The art of Tuina or Chinese massage is fast becoming an excellent alternative to conventional forms of relaxation and the Bodymind clinic in Kings Heath is certainly leading the way.

On arrival at the centre in Salisbury Road, I was met with a friendly and enthusiastic welcome from Janet Thomas, the qualified practitioner who has been in the field for nine years.

She explained that unlike Eastern traditions of medicine, we in the West have not incorporated massage as a valuable part of our body's health and well being.

"But it's a non-invasive way to reduce pain, stress and tension, whilst increasing flexibility and improving the circulation."

Tuina was a deep, rhythmic and energising treatment given through my clothes without oils or lotions. So it was the perfect way to soothe all my troubles away without worrying about grease or how I would look back at the office.

Janet was extremely professional but soon put me at ease, and I have to admit that I was on my way to nodding off by the time she finished working her magic.

But since the clinic's ethos is that body and mind are very much connected, the session was completed with a spot of hypnotism from Janet and her colleague Ann Smith, a hypnotherapy expert.

As I had never been hypnotised before I was both nervous and sceptical of its success. But as millions of people can vouch, it does work and leaves you relaxed, focused and ready to take on the world.

It was a general session dealing with all aspects of life - career, family, self-perception, and encouraged you to have a positive view on life.

I knew it was working when I couldn't open my eyes but to the credit of Janet and Ann, the entire procedure felt safe and soothing.

For more information contact the Bodymind clinic on 0121 449 6669.