If you are looking for something a bit different than just a break away, what about a break with the option to enjoy relaxing massages, at an Irish massage spa, as well as being able to enjoy the Irish countryside. We had a great chat with James from Ireland who can offer all of that.
WHD Please tell us about treatments that you provide at the spa?
JK The treatments that I offer are Swedish Sports massage, Aromatherapy massage, Lomi Lomi Hawaiian massage, Hot Stone massage and Indian Head massage.
WHD What do the massages you offer entail?
JK Swedish massage is a deeply relaxing massage. A base oil is used during the massage to work out tension and stress from the body. Circulation is increased, improving skin condition and leaving you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed. It helps break down and eliminate toxins that build up in the muscles. Muscle tone and flexibility is also enhanced, reducing stiffness and discomfort encountered from things like poor posture and stress.
Aromatherapy massage involves the use of essential oils extracted from flowers, woods and herbs. Each of these oils has natural chemical compounds that create a reaction in the body. This works in a similar way to chemical hormones that occur naturally in everyone. The technique used is a very light massage, therapeutic in itself. The oils penetrate the pores of the skin, joining the blood circulatory system where they start their effect. Some of the reactions result in effects such as reducing inflammation, improving the immune system and increasing production of endorphins thus reducing stress levels.
Lomi lomi Hawaiian massage is a synthesis of ancient and modern massage techniques, grounded in the Hawaiian people. This fluid and rhythmic hand based technique can be applied to the whole body to improve lympathic, immune and digestive system functioning. The profound calming effects of this massage are especially recommended for conditions induced by hypertension, chronic stress and insomnia. The gentleness of the massage is ideal for those with arthritis to assist in the speedy recovery of recently broken bones.
Hot Stone massage is also known a Geo Thermal Therapy. This is the ancient healing art originating over 2000 years ago, using hot and cold stones to deliver a holistic full body treatment. The stones are used in two different ways during the treatment. Firstly placing the stones on strategic parts of the body, this calms the mind, tension melts away, chakra points are gently stimulated and areas of the body that need deep massage are prepared by warming the muscles increasing circulation. This allows the practitioner to access the muscles deeply and more speedily thus giving a very effective massage.
Indian Head massage involves the application of pressure to the head and neck with the use of hands by the practitioner. Although called head massage - the neck, shoulders, arms, face and ears are also included.
WHD What is your background / story behind opening this spa?
JK Back in 2006 I visited a number of spas throughout Ireland to get an overall impression. I decided to set up a practice at a very affordable price for clients on a small and personal scale. I completed a small one bedroom self catering cottage which can sleep up to three people adjacent to the treatment room.
WHD Can you tell us a bit about the cottage?
JK The cottage comes with open fireplace and broadband. The cottage is located 4 mins walk from Lough Derg [one of Ireland's largest lakes] and just one mile from the small scenic village of Mountshannon in East Clare. It is only 30 miles east of Shannon International airport. It is approx.1 hour and 20 mins from the Clare coast, the scenic Burren area in North Clare and only 45 mins drive from Bunratty Castle and Folk Park.
WHD Can you tell us bit about the area?
JK From a small harbour near the cottage it is possible to pre book (in season) a small boat trip (5 mins boat trip) to Holy Island or Iniscealtra as its also known as. The island contains a round tower and ruins of monastic churches dating back to the 12th.century and original settlement of the island in the 6th century. See www.mountshannon.com for photos and historical information on the island and the area in general.
WHD Is there anything else you'd like to share with us?
JK I can organise walks for guests, as I am a member of the East Clare walking club. I can also organize runs, as I am a member of an athletic club and IMRA, Irish Mountain Running Association. If you are flexible in your travel dates they can be planned to
coincide with the walking clubs organised walks which take place mostly on
Sundays.
Thanks James for your insight into the treatments that you offer at your Irish massage spa. What a great idea to have a cottage to rent and to be able to get your massage treatments at the same time. A place to certainly visit, relax and take in the views. For more information please see James's web site at www.vrbo.com/173164.
