Cardio’s effect on Muscle Mass

What are the effects of cardiovascular exercise on muscle mass?

Cardiovascular exercise, also known as cardio, has long been associated with weight loss and improving overall health. However, there is a common misconception that cardio can also reduce muscle mass. In this article, we will explore the relationship between cardio and muscle mass, examining the evidence to determine whether or not cardio can truly reduce muscle mass.

Muscle mass and Cardio explained…

First, it is important to understand that muscle mass is primarily influenced by two factors: exercise and nutrition. Resistance training, such as weight lifting, is the most effective form of exercise for increasing muscle mass. Additionally, consuming a diet high in protein is crucial for providing the necessary building blocks for muscle growth.

Cardio, on the other hand, is primarily focused on improving cardiovascular health and burning calories. While cardio can be a great form of exercise for weight loss and improving overall health, it is not typically associated with building muscle mass. In fact, some forms of cardio, such as long-distance running, have been shown to actually reduce muscle mass in some individuals.

One reason why cardio may lead to muscle loss is due to the body’s adaptation to endurance exercise. Endurance exercise, such as running or cycling, places a greater demand on the body’s aerobic energy system. This can lead to a reduction in the body’s anaerobic energy system, which is primarily responsible for powering short bursts of high-intensity activity, such as weight lifting.

Additionally, cardio can increase the body’s production of cortisol, a stress hormone that can break down muscle tissue. This can be especially true for individuals who engage in excessive amounts of cardio, without adequate rest and recovery time.

However, it is important to note that the relationship between cardio and muscle mass is not always clear-cut. For example, moderate amounts of cardio may actually help to improve muscle mass by increasing blood flow and providing the necessary nutrients for muscle growth. Additionally, some forms of cardio, such as high-intensity interval training (HIIT), have been shown to improve both cardiovascular health and muscle mass.

Ultimately, the relationship between cardio and muscle mass is complex and depends on a variety of factors, including the type and duration of cardio, the individual’s diet and rest habits, and their overall fitness goals. While cardio alone may not be the most effective way to build muscle mass, it can still be a valuable form of exercise for improving overall health and fitness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cardio can lead to muscle loss in some individuals, especially if it is performed excessively and without adequate rest and recovery time. However, the relationship between cardio and muscle mass is not always clear-cut, and moderate amounts of cardio may actually help to improve muscle mass. Ultimately, the best approach to building muscle mass is to incorporate both resistance training and cardiovascular exercise, while also consuming a diet high in protein and getting adequate rest and recovery time.

Get in touch

If you liked this article and you are thinking about your exercise and nutrition regime our team of highly qualified personal trainers and nutritionists can help. Getting the right balance of exercise and nutrition to reach your goal can be a scientific process where one size does not fit us all. Our experts can tailor make the right approach for you. Contact us today for more information or advice alternatively make a booking online.

Benefits of Pregnancy Massage

Pregnancy massage, also known as prenatal massage, is a type of massage therapy designed specifically for pregnant women. This type of massage focuses on the specific needs of expectant mothers, such as alleviating the physical and emotional discomforts of pregnancy, reducing stress and anxiety, and promoting relaxation.

During a pregnancy massage, the mother-to-be is typically positioned on her side or with specialized equipment that supports the belly and allows for comfortable positioning. The massage therapist will use a combination of techniques, such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and acupressure, to help relieve tension and pain in areas such as the back, hips, legs, and feet.

Pregnancy massage can also help to improve circulation and reduce swelling, which is common during pregnancy due to increased blood volume and pressure on the blood vessels. It may also help to alleviate common pregnancy-related symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, and insomnia.

It is important to note that pregnancy massage should only be performed by a licensed and trained massage therapist who specializes in prenatal massage. They should be aware of the specific needs and considerations of pregnant women, such as avoiding certain pressure points and positioning that may be uncomfortable or unsafe.

In general, pregnancy massage is considered safe for most expectant mothers, especially after the first trimester. However, it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before scheduling a pregnancy massage to ensure that it is safe for both the mother and the baby.

Benefits of Pregnancy Massage

Pregnancy massage, also known as prenatal massage, offers many benefits for expectant mothers. Here are some of the key benefits of pregnancy massage:

  1. Reduces muscle tension and pain: Pregnancy massage can help to reduce muscle tension and pain in the back, hips, legs, and feet. It can also help to improve flexibility and range of motion.
  2. Improves circulation: Pregnancy massage can help to improve circulation and reduce swelling in the legs and feet, which is common during pregnancy due to increased blood volume and pressure on the blood vessels.
  3. Relieves stress and anxiety: Pregnancy massage can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which is important for both the mother and the baby. It can promote relaxation and improve overall well-being.
  4. Promotes better sleep: Pregnancy massage can help to promote better sleep by reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation. It can also help to alleviate common pregnancy-related symptoms such as insomnia and fatigue.
  5. Reduces the risk of preterm labor: Studies have shown that regular pregnancy massage can help to reduce the risk of preterm labor and low birth weight.
  6. Improves the health of the baby: Pregnancy massage can help to improve the health of the baby by increasing blood flow and oxygenation to the placenta.

It is important to note that pregnancy massage should only be performed by a licensed and trained massage therapist who specializes in prenatal massage. They should be aware of the specific needs and considerations of pregnant women, such as avoiding certain pressure points and positioning that may be uncomfortable or unsafe.

Contraindications to Pregnancy Massage

While pregnancy massage can offer many benefits for expectant mothers, there are some contraindications that should be considered. Pregnancy massage should not be performed in the first trimester, as this is a critical time in the development of the baby. Additionally, pregnancy massage should not be performed if the mother has a high-risk pregnancy, such as a history of preterm labor or preeclampsia. Other contraindications include conditions such as deep vein thrombosis, blood clots, or a history of miscarriage. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before scheduling a pregnancy massage to ensure that it is safe for both the mother and the baby. A trained and licensed prenatal massage therapist will also conduct a thorough health history and consultation before beginning the massage to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for the mother’s specific needs.

Areas we cover

LiveWell Health offer a clinic based and mobile in home service to all expectant mothers as long as they do not have any contraindications to massage.

Given the scale of our specialist team in this area and the fact LiveWell are one of the countries leading companies on this type of treatment, we cover a number of locations across the UK.

These locations include, but are not limited to:

Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Sheffield, Leeds, Wolverhampton, Leicester, Coventry, Derby, Nottingham, Gloucester, Hereford, Worcester and London.

Within these areas, we usually cover around a 20-25 mile radius in and around these town’s and cities. If your location is not listed, but you are close to one of these locations, then please do contact us and we will be able to advise if we can offer you a service in your postcode location. Alternatively you can email us on info@livewellhelath.co.uk for further information or finally, you can go to our online booking system where all our locations are listed and where you will be able to book you pregnancy massage.

AC Joint Inury

The AC (acromioclavicular) joint is where the shoulder blade (scapula) meets the collarbone (clavicle). The highest point of the shoulder blade is called the acromion. Strong tissues called ligaments connect the acromion to the collarbone, forming the AC joint.

Most AC Joint injuries are treated conservatively using various combinations of strengthening exercises, following the immobilisation phase, once pain permits. Surgery is usually reserved for cases where there is a complete dislocation of the AC Joint (Grade 3), or in cases where a less severe injury fails to respond adequately to conservative treatment.

Anatomy

The Acromioclavicular Joint, or AC Joint, is one of four joints that comprises the Shoulder complex. The AC Joint is formed by the junction of the lateral clavicle and the acromion process of the scapula and is a gliding, or plane style synovial joint. The AC Joint attaches the scapula to the clavicle and serves as the main articulation that suspends the upper extremity from the trunk.

The primary function of the AC Joint is:

To allow the scapula additional range of rotation on the thorax.

Allow for adjustments of the scapula (tipping and internal/external rotation) outside the initial plane of the scapula in order to follow the changing shape of the thorax as arm movement occurs.

The joint allows transmission of forces from the upper extremity to the clavicle.

Symptoms

  • Pain at the end of the collar bone.
  • Pain may feel widespread throughout the shoulder until the initial pain resolves; following this, it is more likely to be a very specific site of pain over the joint itself.
  • Swelling often occurs.
  • Depending on the extent of the injury, a step-deformity may be visible. This is an obvious lump where the joint has been disrupted and is visible on more severe injuries.
  • Pain on moving the shoulder, especially when trying to raise the arms above shoulder height.

Causes

An AC Joint injury often occurs as a result of a direct blow to the tip of the shoulder from, for example, an awkward fall, or impact with another person. This forces the Acromion Process downward, beneath the clavicle. Alternately, an AC Joint injury may result from an upward force to the long axis of the humerus (upper arm bone) such as a fall which directly impacts on the wrist of a straightened arm. Most typically, the shoulder is in an adducted (close to the body) and flexed (bent) position.

Diagnosis

Firstly, for the diagnosis of scapula winging your doctor will look at the shoulder blades for any clear obvious signs of winging. Some patient’s scapula bone may be more visible than others and have distinct scapula winging. The doctor may also ask you to perform arm/ shoulder movements to examine the range of movement and stability at the joint.

One of the main tests that are used to aid in the diagnosis of scapula winging is the serratus anterior test. This is where the patient is asked to face a wall, standing about two feet from the wall and then push against the wall with flat palms at waist level. This test is carried out to identify if any damage is done to the thoracic nerve causing the scapula to wing.

Treatment

The traditional literature supports non-operative treatment for grade I and II injuries. Patients with grade IV, V and VI injuries benefit from operative treatment, whereas the treatment of grade III injuries remains a controversial issue. 22 Numerous surgical procedures have been described, though there is currently no gold standard for the treatment of AC injuries. The main principle of surgical therapy is accurate reduction of the AC joint in both coronal and sagittal planes. This is achieved either by primary repair or by reconstruction of injured ligaments and maintaining stability to protect this repair or reconstruction. The traditional Weaver-Dunn CA ligament transfer procedure has largely fallen into disfavour today. If the AC joint injury presents within six weeks, it is considered acute. The main goal of treatment is acromioclavicular joint stabilisation. Following techniques are used for stabilisation and reduction of AC joint pain. Whilst you are going through a rehabilitation, strength plan massage can also help with specific soft tissue techniques to eleviate pain and discomfort and inflamation such as lymphatic drainage massage.

Exercises

Initially, complete rest, immobilization and regular application of ice or cold therapy are important to reduce pain and inflammation. Mobility exercises can begin only once shoulder movement is pain-free. This will normally be 7-14 days for grades 1 and 2 sprains. Grade 3 injuries are more frequently treated conservatively, without surgery, but will require an even longer rest/healing period. If the shoulder has been immobilized for a period of time, then it may have lost mobility or range of motion.

  • Pendulum exercises can begin as soon as the ligament has healed, and pain allows. Gently swing the arm forwards, backward, and sideways whilst lying on your front or bent over as seen opposite.
  • Gradually increase the range of motion. Repeat this with your arm swinging from side to side as well. Aim to reach 90 degrees of motion in any direction.
  • Front shoulder stretch
  • External rotation stretch
  • Isometric exercises – Strengthening should initially be isometric. This means contracting the muscles without movement.

Resistance band exercises for AC joint sprain:

  • Internal Rotation
  • External Rotation
  • Abduction/lateral raise

Prevention

  • Wearing protective strapping to support a previously injured AC Joint, particularly in contact sports or sports where full elevation of the arm is not so important. Protective padding is also used in sports such as rugby.
  • Warming up, stretching and cooling down.
  • Participating in fitness programs to develop strength, balance, coordination and flexibility.
  • Undertaking training prior to competition to ensure readiness to play.
  • Gradually increasing the intensity and duration of training.
  • Allowing adequate recovery time between workouts or training sessions.

If you feel like you may have an AC Joint injury and would like to know more, please contact our specialist team made up of Physiotherapists and Sports Therapists who deal with these kind of injuries all the time. Alternatively you can make a booking online directly.

Tension Headaches

Tension headaches are the most common type of headache and are caused by muscle tension. Symptoms are often characterised as a dull ache or the feeling of pressure on both sides of the head and are sometimes associated with upper neck pain.

Anatomy

The suboccipital muscles, sternocleidomastoid muscles and trapezius muscles run from the base of the skull, the upper neck and the shoulders. When these muscles become tight and contracted, they may compress the nerves or blood vessels in the head and neck, increasing the pressure. This can result in a dull aching pain in the head and upper neck. This increased pressure may also cause referred pain in which there may be pain around the forehead, temples and eyes.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Tension Headaches can in extreme cases be debilitating. Some of the symptoms can include:

  • Pain on both sides of the head
  • Dull aching head pain
  • Feeling of built up pressure in the head
  • Tightness across forehead
  • Neck ache/pain
  • Tenderness of the scalp, neck and shoulders

Causes

The specific causes of tension headaches are still unclear. Tension headaches are caused by tight, contracted neck muscles and are commonly linked to stress, poor posture, head injury and anxiety. Tension headaches are often linked to running in families and are more common in females.

Diagnosis

Tension headaches are diagnosed by reported symptoms. A full medical exam including other tests may be ran by the GP to rule out any other conditions. Tension headaches can be diagnosed by a discussion with a healthcare professional regarding experienced symptoms.

Treatment

Over the counter painkillers may help relieve pain caused by a tension headache. Heatpacks and gentle stretching may also help relieve symptoms. In some cases stronger medication may be prescribed by the GP for chronic tension headaches.

Sports therapy, physiotherapy and massages can be an excellent treatment for tension headaches. The treatment of the underlying muscle tightness can relieve pressure and consequently reduce symptoms. Treatment sessions may include massage, stretching and mobilisation as well as postural strengthening and advice and education to help reduce symptoms and pain experienced.

Exercises

1. Chin Tucks

  • Purpose: Strengthen the deep neck flexor muscles and improve posture, which can relieve tension in the neck and reduce headache symptoms.
  • How to Perform:
    • Sit or stand with your back straight.
    • Gently tuck your chin toward your chest, as if making a double chin, while keeping your eyes forward.
    • Hold the position for 3-5 seconds, then relax.
    • Repeat for 20-30 repetitions.

2. Cervical Rotation Stretch

  • Purpose: Increase flexibility and reduce muscle tension in the neck, which can help alleviate tension headaches.
  • How to Perform:
    • Sit or stand with your back straight.
    • Slowly turn your head to one side as far as comfortable, keeping your chin level.
    • Hold the stretch for 20 seconds, then return to the centre.
    • Repeat on the other side, performing 3 stretches per side.

3. Upper Trapezius Stretch

  • Purpose: Stretch and relax the upper trapezius muscles, which often become tight and contribute to tension headaches.
  • How to Perform:
    • Sit or stand with your back straight.
    • Gently tilt your head to one side, bringing your ear toward your shoulder, while keeping your shoulders relaxed.
    • Use your hand to gently increase the stretch by pulling your head closer to your shoulder.
    • Hold for 20 seconds, then switch sides. Perform 3 stretches per side.

4. Scapula Pinches

  • Purpose: Strengthen the muscles between the shoulder blades, improving posture and reducing tension in the upper back and neck.
  • How to Perform:
    • Sit or stand with your arms at your sides.
    • Squeeze your shoulder blades together as if trying to pinch something between them.
    • Hold the squeeze for a moment, then relax.
    • Perform 3 sets of 10-20 repetitions.

Prevention

Due to the nature of our lives and the fact tension headaches can come on through a variety of issues. Some of which are part of our day to day life, such as looking down to your phone, working at a computer/desk, performing certain exercises at gym or just generally feeling stressed from work/life etc.

The good news is with the stretches above, if done regularly, it can prevent the onset of tension headaches. Regular deep tissue massages can also help and trying to take time to de-stress and in some cases meditation/yoga type exercises will also help.

It is important, to slow down and take time for yourself.

If you feel like you are struggling with tension headaches and would like some more advice then please contact us directly, alternatively if you feel a professional massage will help then please make a booking today.

ACL Rupture

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the most injured area of the lower body. The ACL is a strong band of tissue that connects your femur to your tibia. These injuries are mainly common in people who partake in sporting activities such as running, football basketball and netball. This is due to the sports involving a lot of pressure onto the knee, with quick agility movements and changing direction suddenly.

Normally people will know instantly when they have injured the ACL as you will hear a loud popping sound, the knee will suddenly feel weak and painful, unable to put any weight onto the joint. It is important that you seek medical care as soon as possible when this occurs and go and see a doctor for a medical examination.

Anatomy

The ACL ligament is a band of connective tissue which passes from the femur to the tibia bones. The origin of the ACL is the posteromedial corner of the medial aspect of the lateral femoral condyle and inserts into the intercondylar notch of the tibia. The ACL is an important ligament as it provides stability to the knee by preventing the tibia from sliding Infront of the femur.

The main two components of the ACL are the anteromedial and posterolateral bundles, thee insert into the tibial plateau. When the knee is in extension the posterolateral bundle is very tight and the anterolateral bundle is laxed, when the knee is then flexed the ACL changes its positioning causing the AMB to allowing the ligaments to hold more anterior tibial load. When this area is injured, it can be hard for the joint to hold its normal function.

Injury to ligaments is usually graded on a severity scale:

Grade 1: The ligament is mildly damaged and has been slightly stretched but will still be able to keep the knee stable.

Grade 2: The ligament will be stretched to a point where it becomes loose, commonly known as a partial tear.

Grade 3: This is usually known as a full rupture/ tear of the ligament where it has been split, leaving the joint unstable. A grade 3 tear is so common with the anterior cruciate ligament.

Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms of ACL injuries are:

  • Loud popping of the knee
  • Pain when walking/ inability to walk
  • Instability
  • Difficulty putting weight on the knee joint
  • Excessive swelling
  • Constant pain

Causes

There are a number of things that can cause these injuries, usually, but not always, around sports. Such as:

  • Sudden change in direction.
  • Planting the foot into the ground whist twisting the leg.
  • Landing awkwardly from a jump.
  • Someone else may cause the injury.
  • Sudden jolt/ stop causing too much pressure onto the knee ligament.

Diagnosis

For the diagnosis of ACL injury your doctor will check your knee for swelling and tenderness, comparing your injured knee to your uninjured knee. The doctor may also move your knee into a variety of positions to assess range of motion and overall function of the joint testing for stability and strength.

Some scans such as an MRI may be used, however a Rupture is easily diagnosed through sight and various movement tests as described above.

Treatment

Once the ACL has encountered a complete rupture, the main treatment to fix this would be surgery. The main focus will be on rebuilding the ACL, this will consist of a complete restructure of the ligament. The doctor will replace the ligament with tissue graft of a tendon, by doing this it allows the graft to act as added support for a new ligament to grow onto.

Other options such as physiotherapy would be recommended to help strengthen and help support the knee joint to get back to its normal function. Exercises and rehabilitation programmes should only be completed once swelling has reduced. Wearing a brace may also be helpful to reduce instability of the knee joint, as well as crutches to take pressure of the knee when walking.

Exercises

Once the rupture has been treated through surgery there is a long road of rehabilitation ahead. Please seek a professional consultation with a registered sports therapist or physiotherapist to get a detailed plan. In the interim, the below exercises can help stregnthen and get you back on the road.

Heel Slides

  • Purpose: Improve knee range of motion and flexibility after an ACL injury.
  • How to Perform:
    • Lie on your back with your legs straight.
    • Slowly slide the heel of the affected leg toward your buttocks by bending your knee as much as possible without pain.
    • Hold the position briefly, then slowly slide the heel back to the starting position.

Isometric Quad Contractions

  • Purpose: Strengthen the quadriceps muscles without moving the knee joint, which is important for stabilizing the knee after an ACL rupture.
  • How to Perform:
    • Sit with your leg straight out in front of you.
    • Tighten your quadriceps (the muscles on the front of your thigh) by pressing the back of your knee down into the floor.
    • Hold the contraction for 5-10 seconds, then relax and repeat.

Prone Knee Flexion

  • Purpose: Improve knee flexion and strength in the hamstrings, which are important for knee stability.
  • How to Perform:
    • Lie face down with your legs straight.
    • Slowly bend the knee of your affected leg, bringing your heel toward your buttocks.
    • Hold briefly at the top, then slowly lower your leg back down.

Heel Raises

  • Purpose: Strengthen the calf muscles, which support the knee and improve overall leg stability.
  • How to Perform:
    • Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, using a chair or wall for balance.
    • Slowly lift your heels off the ground, rising onto the balls of your feet.
    • Hold for a moment at the top, then slowly lower your heels back down.

Half Squats

  • Purpose: Build strength in the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes, which are crucial for knee support without putting excessive strain on the joint.
  • How to Perform:
    • Stand with feet shoulder-width apart.
    • Slowly lower your body by bending your knees, keeping your back straight, until your thighs are about halfway to parallel with the floor.
    • Push through your heels to stand back up.

One Leg Stands and Hold

  • Purpose: Improve balance, stability, and strength in the supporting muscles around the knee.
  • How to Perform:
    • Stand on one leg, using a wall or chair for balance if necessary.
    • Hold the position for 20-30 seconds, keeping your knee slightly bent, then switch to the other leg.

Isometric Knee Flexion and Extension

  • Purpose: Strengthen the muscles around the knee without joint movement, which is beneficial for maintaining strength after an ACL rupture.
  • How to Perform:
    • Sit with your knee slightly bent.
    • For flexion, press your heel into the floor as if trying to bend your knee further, but without actually moving it.
    • For extension, try to straighten your knee by tightening your quadriceps, pressing the back of your knee down into the floor.
    • Hold each contraction for 5-10 seconds, then relax and repeat.

Resist Knee Bike Upright

  • Purpose: Improve range of motion and strength in the knee using a stationary bike, while also providing a low-impact cardiovascular workout.
  • How to Perform:
    • Sit on a stationary bike with the seat adjusted so that your knees are slightly bent at the bottom of the pedal stroke.
    • Start with light resistance and pedal smoothly, gradually increasing resistance as tolerated to challenge your knee muscles.
    • Aim for 10-20 minutes, depending on your comfort and fitness level.

An ACL rupture can be life changing and as such the rehabilitation back to full fitness can be a long, hard road. If you need help with an ACL issue then please contact a member of our team and make a booking with one of our physiotherapists or sports therapists.

Relaxation and Renewal to the Birmingham Office of BioCare

In October 2022, LiveWell had the pleasure of enhancing the well-being of employees at BioCare‘s Birmingham office by providing a massage therapist and a yoga instructor for a two-day wellness event. Our goal was to help the BioCare team de-stress and rejuvenate, and the results were overwhelmingly positive.

On the first day, our skilled massage therapist offered neck and shoulder chair massages throughout the day. These massages aimed to alleviate tension, reduce stress, and promote overall relaxation. Employees eagerly took advantage of the opportunity to enjoy a calming and therapeutic experience right at their workplace. The immediate relief from muscle tension and the boost in morale were evident as employees returned to their desks feeling refreshed and revitalised.

The following day, our certified yoga instructor led a yoga and mindfulness session designed to help the team unwind and stretch their tired bodies. The session included gentle stretches, deep breathing exercises, and mindfulness techniques, providing a comprehensive approach to physical and mental well-being. Participants appreciated the chance to engage in these activities, which helped them feel more centred and balanced.

Both days were a resounding success. The LiveWell team thoroughly enjoyed the experience, and the feedback from BioCare employees was exceptionally positive. Many expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to participate in these wellness activities, noting the significant benefits to their physical and mental health.

This two-day corporate wellbeing event at BioCare underscored the importance of incorporating wellness programs into the workplace. By investing in the health and well-being of their staff, BioCare demonstrated a commitment to creating a supportive and positive work environment. The success of this event highlights how such initiatives can boost employee morale, productivity, and overall job satisfaction.

LiveWell looks forward to future collaborations with BioCare and other companies, continuing our mission to promote health and wellness in the workplace. We are excited to bring our expertise to more employees, helping them achieve balance and well-being in their professional lives.

If you are interested in our office massage or yoga and mindfulness sessions or indeed any other wellbeing services please contact us or make a corporate wellbeing day booking.

BioCare Office Chair Massage

 

Elevating Employee Wellbeing at British Gypsum

Elevating Employee Wellbeing at British Gypsum (Saint Gobain)

LiveWell was delighted to participate in the Employee Wellbeing Day event, hosted by British Gypsum (Saint Gobain), at their Leicester office. Responding to their request, we provided a skilled massage therapist and a certified yoga instructor to contribute to the health and wellness of their employees.

Our massage therapist offered onsite chair massage services, delivering much-needed relief to the hardworking team. The corporate massages helped alleviate muscle tension, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. Employees appreciated the break from their routine and the opportunity to enjoy a soothing massage right at their workplace.

In addition to massage services, our yoga instructor conducted a yoga and mindfulness session designed to help employees relax, unwind, and stretch their tired bodies. The session focused on gentle stretches, breathing exercises, and mindfulness techniques, providing a comprehensive approach to physical and mental well-being. Participants left the session feeling refreshed and more centred, ready to tackle their work with renewed energy.

The day was a resounding success, with both the LiveWell team and the employees of British Gypsum thoroughly enjoying the experience. The positive feedback we received highlighted the appreciation for the services provided and the noticeable impact on employee well-being. Employees expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage in activities that not only helped them physically but also enhanced their mental clarity and overall mood.

This event underscores the importance of integrating wellness programs into the workplace. By investing in the health and well-being of their staff, British Gypsum demonstrated a commitment to fostering a supportive and positive work environment. The success of the Employee Wellbeing Day showcases how such initiatives can significantly boost employee morale and productivity.

LiveWell looks forward to future collaborations with British Gypsum and other companies, continuing our mission to promote health and wellness in the workplace. We are excited to bring our expertise to more employees, helping them achieve balance and well-being in their professional lives.

For further information please contact us today or use our corporate booking page to make an enquiry.

British Gypsum Yoga and Mindfullness Event for a Corporate Wellbeing Day

Relief at Sterling Event Group

LiveWell Provides Much-Needed Relief at Sterling Event Group

LiveWell recently visited the Sterling Event Group offices in Manchester, bringing a wave of relaxation and rejuvenation to the hardworking staff. Our team, consisting of two skilled soft tissue specialists and massage therapists, provided much-needed on site massages to the employees, helping them unwind and recover from a demanding period of events and intensive work.

The session took place on professional massage couches, ensuring that each employee received a comfortable and effective treatment. These massages aimed to alleviate muscle tension, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being. The feedback from the staff was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude for the opportunity to relax and recharge during their workday.

Our therapists were particularly pleased with the day, as they could directly witness the positive impact of their work. Seeing the immediate relief and improved mood of the Sterling Events Group staff made the experience highly rewarding. The team enjoyed engaging with the employees, understanding their specific needs, and tailoring the massages to address those concerns effectively.

The visit to Sterling Events Group highlighted the significant benefits of incorporating wellness services into the workplace. Regular massage therapy can help mitigate the physical and mental strain that comes from intense work periods, ultimately enhancing employee productivity and job satisfaction.

This successful event underscores the importance of corporate wellness programs in maintaining a healthy and motivated workforce. By prioritising the well-being of their employees, companies like Sterling Events Group not only show their appreciation but also invest in a more resilient and efficient team.

LiveWell looks forward to continuing its mission of promoting wellness in the workplace. We are excited about the potential for future visits to Sterling Events Group and other companies, where we can offer our expertise to support the health and happiness of more employees.

Sterling Event Group

For further information please contact us today!

LiveWell Brings Massage and Yoga to 7 Dots

LiveWell recently extended its wellness services to the 7 Dots offices in London, offering much-needed soft tissue massages and yoga and mindfulness sessions. This initiative was met with such enthusiasm that 7 Dots quickly signed a two-year contract to ensure these beneficial services would be available on a monthly basis.

The LiveWell team includes a skilled massage therapist and a certified yoga instructor, both dedicated to enhancing the well-being of 7 Dots employees. The on site office massages help alleviate physical tension, reduce stress, and promote overall health, while the yoga and mindfulness sessions provide employees with tools to manage stress, increase flexibility, and improve mental clarity.

The introduction of these wellness sessions has been incredibly well-received. Employees eagerly anticipate the monthly visits, enjoying the break from their routines and the opportunity to focus on their physical and mental health. The combination of massage therapy and mindfulness practices creates a holistic approach to wellness, addressing both body and mind.

The partnership between LiveWell and 7 Dots highlights the growing recognition of the importance of employee well-being in the corporate world. By investing in these monthly sessions, 7Dots demonstrates its commitment to creating a supportive and healthy work environment. This not only boosts employee morale but also enhances productivity and job satisfaction.

The LiveWell team looks forward to their visits each month, building strong relationships with the 7 Dots employees and witnessing the positive impact of their services. The enthusiasm and participation of the employees make these sessions a rewarding experience for everyone involved.

This collaboration sets a high standard for corporate wellness programs, showing how regular, targeted wellness initiatives can significantly benefit employees and, in turn, the company. LiveWell is excited to continue this journey with 7 Dots, fostering a culture of health, mindfulness, and well-being in the workplace

If you are interested in doing something like this for your employees please contact us today!

LiveWell Enhances Employee Wellbeing at Zuto

LiveWell Enhances Employee Wellbeing at Zuto with Monthly Onsite Chair Massages

In a proactive move to enhance employee wellbeing, LiveWell provided a team of six highly qualified massage therapists to visit the offices of Zuto. As part of a dedicated employee wellbeing program, these therapists offered onsite chair massages to Zuto employees in Manchester and Macclesfield, aiming to reduce stress and promote relaxation in the workplace.

The LiveWell team brought their expertise and positive energy to Zuto’s office environment, quickly becoming a highlight of the employees’ month. Their professional skills ensured that each massage was not only relaxing but also effective in alleviating tension and improving overall well-being. These sessions provided a much-needed break from the demands of the workday, allowing employees to return to their tasks feeling refreshed and re-energized.

The success of these visits led to the establishment of regular monthly sessions, making onsite office massages a staple in Zuto’s employee benefits program. This consistent commitment to employee wellness underscores Zuto’s dedication to fostering a supportive and healthy work environment. The monthly massages have become a highly anticipated event, reflecting the positive impact on employee morale and satisfaction.

The LiveWell team thoroughly enjoys their days at Zuto. The opportunity to interact with Zuto’s employees and witness firsthand the benefits of their work adds a fulfilling dimension to their profession. They take pride in contributing to a workplace culture that values and prioritises the health and well-being of its staff.

By incorporating these regular massage sessions, Zuto has set a benchmark for other companies looking to invest in their employees’ health and happiness. The collaboration between LiveWell and Zuto serves as a shining example of how innovative wellness programs can create a more productive and positive workplace. LiveWell looks forward to continuing this partnership and exploring new ways to enhance employee wellness at Zuto.

If you are interestd in having our team enlighten your work space with some on site employee wellbeing services then please contact a member of our team today.