My love of sport, especially running, is what led me into massage therapy. Training as a distance runner gave me a real understanding of how the body works under pressure, and what it actually takes to recover properly. An introduction to yoga deepened that awareness, particularly around the benefits of deep static stretching when incorporated into a training routine.
I'm a fully insured member of the Federation of Holistic Therapists, and I hold diplomas in holistic massage, clinical sport and remedial massage therapy, and hot stone treatments.
I have been qualified for over twelve years and have built up a broad knowledge of the human body, working with clients across a wide range of health needs, from sports recovery and deep tissue work to relaxing holistic massage and hot stone treatments.
Whether you're a runner dealing with tight hamstrings, someone recovering from a sporting injury, or simply carrying the kind of tension that builds up from day-to-day life, I'll work with you to find the right approach for your needs.
If you're looking for a mobile sports massage, a holistic treatment at home, or just want to talk through what might suit you best, I'd be very happy to hear from you. I also take bookings for home-spa weekends, hen parties, group holidays and retreats.
About Ian
Area Covered
I am based in Watchet, West Somerset, and provide mobile massage treatments across the local area. I regularly cover Minehead, Williton, Dunster, Blue Anchor, Porlock, Bishops Lydeard, Stogumber, Nether Stowey, Crowcombe, Taunton, Wellington and the surrounding villages.
I can come to your own home or office, as long as there is enough space to set up my couch and perform the treatment unobstructed. Clients are also welcome to come to me in Watchet if that is easier.
I am happy to travel further afield than my usual 15 mile radius, though ideally this would be for group bookings. Clients booking a single treatment beyond that radius are welcome to get in touch, but please note there will be an additional charge of 45p per additional mile on top of the treatment price.
What is Massage Therapy?
Massage therapy works with the soft tissues of the body - muscles, connective tissue and fascia - using carefully applied pressure and movement to release tension and help tissue return to its natural state. Techniques range from sustained, targeted holds to flowing, rhythmic strokes, depending on what your body needs.
The benefits are both physical and psychological, and often people are surprised by how much the two are connected.
Physically, massage can help to:
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Relieve muscle tightness, stiffness and spasm
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Improve flexibility and range of movement
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Boost circulation, bringing fresh oxygen and nutrients to tired muscles
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Reduce soreness and post-exercise fatigue
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Support the body in clearing metabolic waste, such as lactic acid
For your mind and mood, it can:
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Lower heart rate and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety
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Lift mood through the release of endorphins
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Leave you with a genuine sense of calm and well-being
Whether you're dealing with a specific physical complaint, carrying the weight of a stressful period, or simply want time to restore and reset, massage offers something real and lasting.
Sports massage works with the muscles, ligaments and tendons, using deeper pressure and more targeted techniques than a standard holistic massage.
A therapist will often reposition you or adjust a limb during treatment to access the area more effectively, and stretching may be incorporated when helpful.
Despite the name, sports massage is not just for athletes. It is well suited to anyone who carries everyday aches and pains, or who feels they need something more specific and deeper than a relaxation massage.
In addition to the benefits of holistic massage, sports massage can:
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Serve as an effective warm-up or cool-down tool
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Help prevent injury
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Rehabilitate muscle, ligament and tendon injuries
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Adjust and improve muscle length
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Increase range of movement at a joint
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Stimulate nerve endings to support recovery and sensation
Not sure which sort of massage therapy would suit you best? Get in touch to discuss your requirements!