About - Somasen Bodywork

About Anna

Over the past 8 years I have explored a variety of somatic practices and modalities. With particular interest and experience in Contact Improvisation as well as the Feldenkrais Method, I’ve developed embodied sensitivity which is fundamental to the way I practice massage.

I work in an intuitive and creative way, listening to the individual needs of my clients. While my approach is strongly rooted in sensing and responding to the body in the present moment, it remains grounded in the tried and tested techniques of Thai yoga massage.

My training includes:

-Advanced chair massage with Gladwell School of Massage (accredited by Complementary Health Proffesionals) (2024)

-Anatomy, physiology and pathology (Federation of Holistic Therapists) (2023)

-Traditional Thai yoga massage course with Betty Papadopoulou (Sunshine Network) (2022)

-Thai massage 1:1 tuition with Justin Philpott (2021-ongoing)

I am fully insured.

In personal life, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, walking in nature and painting.

About Thai massage

Thai massage is believed to have originated in Northern India and founded by Jivaka Kumar Bhaccha, a physician to king Bimbisara more than 2500 years ago. Traditionally it uses a map of body lines called Sen to follow with a treatment that restores balance and flow.
Feel free to get in touch to find out more and check whether thai yoga massage is right for you.

Frequently asked questions

What does Thai massage feel like?

Most often, my clients describe the experience as profoundly calming; it’s common for them to drift into a half-sleep state during the massage. They also feel a sense of relief from the release of tension. For some individuals, this relief is accompanied by emotional release.

The rocking movements during the massage can be especially relaxing. Stretching and deep, gradual pressure provides a feeling of being increasingly grounded within the body through improved proprioceptive body mapping.

Additionally, some clients have reported that the massage has led them into a deep meditative state or even slightly altered states of consciousness.

Do you follow a specific sequence?

I draw on a wide spectrum of techniques from Thai massage to provide you with the best possible treatment, tailored to what is needed in the given moment.

I often identify tension and blocks in the body, adjusting the sequence to focus more on the areas that require attention.

This means that no two treatments are exactly the same; however, some techniques may be used more frequently, especially if they prove to be particularly effective for an individual.

Will the treatment be painful?

The most ideal conditions for the body to open and muscles to release tension are when your nervous system recognizes that you are safe and can let go.

This is why I believe that the treatment should not cause any discomfort or be painful.

On the contrary, the more comfortable and pleasant the massage is, the easier it is for you to reconnect with your body.
Any deep pressure that is necessary will be applied slowly and gradually.

Do you use oil for massage?

Since Thai massage is primarily administered over clothing, I typically do not use massage oil during the session.

However, there are instances where I might use organic massage oil for your neck and face, if needed and if you are comfortable with it.

What should I wear?

It is best to wear comfortable, loose, and ideally stretchy clothing.

Joggers, leggings, sweatshirts, etc., are perfect choices.

If you tend to get cold easily, it is advised to wear long sleeves, long trousers, and socks. I will also have a blanket available for you if needed.

Do you offer a pregnancy massage?

I don’t offer a traditional prenatal massage; however, with some adjustments, I can safely perform a gentle Thai massage, provided that the pregnancy is beyond the first trimester.

Are there any contraindications?

There are very few absolute contraindications for Thai massage, such as the first trimester of pregnancy, fever, infectious diseases, recent injuries, or surgeries and unmanaged high blood pressure.

Individuals with a history of or currently undergoing treatment for cancer should consult their healthcare provider to ensure that Thai massage is suitable and safe given their specific health circumstances.

Some conditions, like clotting disorders or osteoporosis, are partially contraindicated, meaning that only specific techniques are unsuitable, while others can be done safely.

It is best to get in touch and discuss your health condition, so we can ensure you enjoy the benefits of Thai massage safely.