7,755 I estimate that this is the number of bodies I’ve massaged over the last 11 years. I would say 30 percent of my knowledge was gained through training, but the rest was gathered through my fingertips. When I meet someone for the first time I generally ask them what the problem is, although there is usually no need to; most bodies follow a similar pattern.

One of the most common issues are shoulder and neck problems. This can be due to working at a desk; curling the body over a computer shortens the Pecs, rolls the shoulders forward and leaves the Rhomboids (the muscles that squeeze the shoulder blades together) vulnerable to injury. This posture usually coincides with a shortening at the back of the neck.

Sitting for long periods of time can also result in and inflexible spine. It can cause pain in the lower back, shoulders and neck which can turn into tension headaches.

Another main cause of tension in this area is stress. When we go about our lives and don’t have a healthy outlet for our tension we hold it and we tighten, containing the stressful energy within. This can result in an ‘Inner squeeze’ — ‘If I hold on tight and stop my breath I can control my circumstances.’

I designed the Health Hub for my clients to take care of their well-being whilst at home. Check out the following suggestions for videos to follow in The Health Hub.

Access is free for all massage customers.

Join the health hub

Stretches - shoulders

s1. Pectoral stretch

The Pectoral muscles when tight pull the shoulders forward, resulting in the muscles at the back of the shoulders becoming weak. This stretch helps to lengthen the pecs and creates space in the chest.

s2. Chest Stretch

This exercise opens the muscles of the chest and strengthens and mobilises the muscles of the shoulder girdle.

S4. Arm Stretch Sequence

This exercise mobilises the muscles of the shoulder, giving a deep stretch to the pecs and the muscles that sit underneath the shoulder blade. This is a great exercise to help with frozen shoulder.

S5. Chest Opening

This is a deeply relaxing exercise. It helps to gently broaden the chest, allowing the lungs to fully expand.

Stretches - Neck

N2. Neck Stretch Routine

This routine stretches and mobilises all the muscles that support the head. This can help to relieve tension in the head and improves range of movement.

Meditations and Breath-work - Calming

C1.Long Deep Breathing

Video found in the Health Hub - Section - Meditations - Calming

This meditation calms the body and mind by slowing down and deepening the breath. It only takes 5 minutes, but will help to reduce stress levels.

C3. Breath awareness

This meditation takes you into the present moment by encouraging you to focus on your internal experience. All meditations help to reduce stress which relieves tension in the body

all videos can be found in the health hub

Happy Shoulders