We offer a wide range of different treatments, which also combine wonderfully with floatation.

You can choose from the following:		  
         
 
Traditional Thai Massage has a long history and can be traced back to India 2500 years ago at the time of the Buddha, known then as "the physical expression of loving kindness". Originally it was used to treat a wide variety of ailments and conditions. Now it is one of the main treatments used by Physiotherapists in hospitals and clinics in Thailand. Recently it has become popular for relaxation in resorts and spas both in Thailand and throughout the world.

The application of Thai Massage uses rhythmic techniques along the energy lines (meridians) of the body, yoga stretches and acupressure points. It is both relaxing and energising, a complete balancing treatment for body and mind.

The session begins with a relaxing footbath. The treatment is performed on a futon mat on the floor and loose clothing is provided. A minimum of one and a half hours is needed. A full and thorough Traditional Thai Massage takes 2 - 2,5 hours.

Oil may be used if requested. Another luxurious addition is the application of hot compresses throughout the treatment. These are filled with aromatic, healing herbs and spices to treat aches and pains, soothe sore muscles and increase the comfort and relaxation of the massage.

  
         
 
Cultures all over the world and throughout the centuries have used massage to relieve pain and anxiety, stimulate circulation and lymphatic drainage, stretch and improve the muscles and soft tissues and to tonify the systems of the body.

Oil massage uses the techniques of stroking, kneading, percussion, myofascial and trigger point release and acupressure.

Among its many benefits, massage can help people who suffer from neck or back pain, headaches, migraine, arthritis, high blood pressure, digestive ailments, sport related injuries, anxiety and overload from work and family stress. Or you might simply want to come and experience a relaxing massage and time out from your daily routine.

It is especially beneficial to have a massage after a session in the floatation bath when the muscles have been prepared, warmed and softened and your whole body is completely relaxed.

  
             
 
Reflextherapy is a treatment that primarily takes place on the feet. It has been used for thousands of years throughout the world. Ancient records show its use in Egypt, throughout Asia alongside acupuncture, in Europe and by Indian tribes of North and Central America. It was brought into a modern day medical context during the 20th century, initially by Dr W. Fitzgerald in USA.
From the 1960's onwards Hanna Marquardt, a nurse and naturopath from Germany, developed the technique even further to teach students with a medical background. Ann Lett in the UK is well known for her thorough and detailed book 'Reflex Zone Therapy for Health Professionals'.

Precisely located "Reflex zones" correspond to all the organs and structures throughout the body. By either stimulating or sedating these points with thumbs and fingers the therapist affects the bodily systems via the nervous connections, blood supply and energy pathways.

Generally a course of treatments is recommended depending on the condition and presenting symptoms. The treatment takes about 1 hour and is done in a lying, comfortable position.
A full medical history and assessment is carried out at the first session.

Reflextherapy can be used for most ailments and conditions. It is suitable for all ages, has proved effective for babies and children, acute and chronic illness and for elderly and dying people. It can be given during pregnancy and also during labour.
Reflextherapy can be a part of a detox programme or simply to reduce stress and increase relaxation.

  
         
 
Stones have been used throughout the ages in many cultures for healing purposes. Likewise, the use of heat and cold is well known to increase blood circulation and therefore enhance the healing capacities in the body. Heat also reduces pain and is very comforting.

Massage can be traced back to Greek and Roman times when it was recommended by physicians to treat a wide variety of musculo-skeletal disorders and other bodily ailments.
Modern day stone therapy uses all these ingredients and was made popular by Mary Nelson in the USA who used the term "LaStone Therapy".

A typical treatment involves lying on warm stones, being massaged with oil and different sized stones then balanced with cooler stones.

The massage takes about 1 hour 15 minutes and is completed with at least a 15 minute rest to soak up the benefits.
Aromatherapy oil may be added to enhance relaxation.
It is a profoundly relaxing and detoxing treatment for both men and women.

  
 


At Amara the Physiotherapy service provides solutions for conditions such as:

Back and neck pain
Whiplash
Muscle and joint problems
Postural problems
Acute and chronic pain
Arthritis
Neurological problems eg: MS, Parkinsons
Breathing problems

Anni Fast

Anni is Amara's principle therapist who qualified as a Chartered Physiotherapist in 1979. She has over 25 years experience in both NHS and private sectors and holds qualifications in a variety of complementary therapies.

Her hospital work in London includes among others: Charing Cross, Chase Farm, St George's, Princess Grace Hospital, The Portland Hospital, St Joseph's Hospice and for a private Cardiologist (using relaxation, breathing techniques and massage). She has worked in a GP surgery, in a corporate setting and used to teach Reflextherapy at the British School of Reflex Zone Therapy.

Her post graduate training includes courses with Sarah Key (Australian Physiotherapist who has developed a specialist back pain treatment), Gunnel Berry (Physiotherapist who developed Adapted Reflextherapy in Spinal Pain) and also at the Australian Physiotherapy and Pilates Institute. Anni is an instructor with the International Nordic Walking Association and has trained with Kira Balaskas and Asokananda in Traditional Thai Yoga Massage.

She was introduced to the benefits of Floatation treatment by a Physiotherapist who worked with rugby players in New Zealand.

Anni set up Amara in 2006 to offer a comprehensive integrated approach using conventional and complementary therapies.

  

             
 


This is a combination treatment using the facilities we have at Amara. The programme is individually designed for each person's needs and preferences. It is particularly useful for those who suffer from prolonged desk and computer work.

The Physiotherapy treatment, following initial assessment, involves the Sarah Key technique for mobilising the spine and may include the use of a back block to open the joints of the spine, releasing painful, cramped tissues and muscle spasm. This is in combination with an exercise programme and advice regarding posture, lifting, work and leisure activities, seating etc.

The Floatation room is a perfect adjunct to the treatment of back pain. The body is totally weightless and in a gravity free environment which enables healing to occur much quicker. Endorphins are released during a float, which help reduce pain and discomfort. Regular floating helps the body to relax deeply and is a great de-stressor.

Massage is another very useful treatment to help reduce muscle spasm, increase circulation and decrease nervous tension. Thai massage is well known for its effectiveness in treating back problems. The additional use of herbal compresses is comforting, healing and relaxing.