We are introducing crystal therapy at Solace Holistic Centre. Here is a brief description about it, including its benefits:

Crystal therapy is a very nurturing, empowering and informative experience. This healing system works specifically with 24 crystals that are chosen to work with a multiplicity of symptoms ranging from mental, physical, emotional and spiritual.

Crystals are minerals formed underground. A crystal's appearance depends upon the natural characteristics of its type and the conditions in which it grows. Some take on strange shapes, some are very small and others grow very large, developing over thousands of years. Different stones have different energetic properties. For example, a Tigers Eye can aid those seeking clarity, while Lapis Lazuli is said to expand our awareness and help us attune to our intuition. Rose Quartz is calming and sometimes referred to as the stone of gentle love.
Crystals are structured in such a way that they respond to the inputs of different energies around them. The cells in the human body also vibrate at certain frequencies, as do the chakras ( the energy centers of the body). So when we come into contact with a crystal, its vibration interacts with the vibration of the cells in our body.

A crystal therapy session can be deeply grounding, it can also put you in touch with what is happening in your life and therefore can be informative and empowering.

A crystal therapy session lasts one hour and includes consultation and after-care .  A 1 hour session is 50 euro, or you can have a crystal therapy session as an add-on to another treatment - 25 minutes for 20euro.

There are many physical and emotional benefits to getting regular massages.
 In this article I will outline some of these benefits and inform you about what you
 can expect from your massage treatment. I will also give you some pointers for
 getting the most out of your massage treatment.

People come for a massage for many different reasons so each treatment is
 tailored to the needs of each person. Some of the physical and emotional benefits
 of massage may include:

1. Increasing blood circulation, bringing more oxygen and nutrients into the 
muscle and reducing muscle fatigue and soreness.
2. Increasing joint mobility and range of movement by releasing restrictions 
caused by scar tissue and adhesions (tight knots in the muscle).
3. Reducing oedema (fluid retention) by increasing lymphatic drainage.
4. Stimlating the parasympathetic nervous system to help promote relaxation and
 reduce stress, this also has further benefits for the digestive system.
5. Improving circulation to the skin and encouraging cell regeneration.
6. Easing emotional trauma through relaxation.
7. Creating a feeling of well-being
8. Increasing levels of dopamine and serotonin, therefore reducing anxiety.
9. Promoting positive body awareness and self-image.
10. Improving mood and outlook.

Your massage treatment is for your benefit. Here are some dos and don'ts to
 getting the most out of your experience:

• If you are coming for your first massage appointment, do make sure to come

 10 minutes early so you have time to fill out a consultation form. This is a short
 form where you fill out your reason for coming for a massage - whether it is for
 relaxation purposes or for a particular issue. You will be asked about any injuries 
or medical conditions you may have so that the treatment can be tailored to your
 needs.

• During the massage communicate with your therapist about the pressure 

being applied, it is always good to let them know how you feel, and if you want 
more or less pressure.

• Don't come for a massage if you are sick or have a contagious disease - 

massage can worsen the symptoms of a virus or cold. Reschedule your 
appointment as early as you can.

• Avoid eating just before your massage. Eating a light meal one to two hours

before your massage will allow for digestion without you feeling uncomfortably 
full.

• Be strategic about timing. Some people like to start their day with an

invigorating massage, others use massage to really relax and unwind. Make sure 
you plan your day around the type of massage you have received.

• Drink lots of water after your treatment to ensure hydration and removal of 

metabolic wastes that accumulate as your muscles are worked on.

• Always communicate with your therapist to ensure you are getting the 

benefit you want. Allow yourself the time during the massage to be present. 
Breathe deeply to allow deeper relaxation.

When it comes to massage 'less-is-more' does not usually apply. While one 
massage can be of benefit, regular massages are recommended as part of a long-term wellness routine.