Massage Therapy

Massage is not just a luxury. It's a way to a healthier, happier life.

The Benefits of Massage Therapy

Massage is generally considered part of complementary and integrative medicine. It's increasingly being offered along with standard treatment for a wide range of medical conditions and situations. Studies of the benefits of massage demonstrate that it is an effective treatment for reducing stress, pain and muscle tension.

A massage calms the nervous system, improves blood circulation, lymphatic circulation, relieves muscle pain, and helps with pain management in conditions such as arthritis, sciatica, and muscle spasms. 

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Our BodyworkTreatments

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage is a technique that’s used to treat musculoskeletal issues, such as strains and sports injuries. It involves applying sustained pressure using slow, deep strokes to target the inner layers of your muscles and connective tissues. This helps to break up scar tissue that forms following an injury and reduce tension in muscle and tissue.

Bowen Technique

The Bowen Technique is a gentle, hands-on therapy that works with the body’s connective tissue (fascia) to promote deep healing, pain relief, and balance — without force or manipulation.

Using precise, rolling movements over muscles, tendons, and ligaments, Bowen sends neurological signals to the brain to trigger the body’s natural repair process. Between each set of movements, the practitioner pauses to allow the body time to respond and reset.

It's especially effective for:

  • Musculoskeletal pain (back, neck, shoulder, knee)

  • Migraines and headaches

  • TMJ, sciatica, and fibromyalgia

  • Hormonal and nervous system imbalances

  • Stress, anxiety, and trauma-related tension

Sport massage in barnstaple

Sport Massage

Sports Massage is a type of massage therapy which utilises deep tissue techniques, with the aim of reducing muscular tension, discomfort and pain.
Although sports participants benefit from sports massage, this method of massage isn’t restricted to sports participants, as the deep tissue massage techniques can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions, such as:

  • Muscular and joint injuries such as sprains and strains,

  • Postural related pain,

  • Headaches,

  • Repetitive strain injuries,

  • Back pain

Make sure to book your treatment to start feeling better now !

I offer bespoke treatments designed for your body, because no two people (or days) are the same. Whether you're holding tension, feeling run down, or just need a reset, my sessions are all about helping you feel better straight away. It’s hands-on, intuitive, and always tailored to what your body needs in the moment.

cupping therapy in Barnstaple

Cupping Therapy

Cupping is a form of massage therapy which involves decompressing soft tissues, (unlike other forms of massage which instead compress), by using a vacuum suction.

The process is in the name - the cup gently sucks your skin and LIFTS underlying soft tissue into the cup. It has a range of benefits, including the relief of pain, decreasing toxins, and improving circulation.

A fantastic way to restore balance in your body, cupping is great no matter who it’s for, from those currently training, to anyone just wanting to relax and unwind!

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation (IASTM)

(IASTM)  It is applied using instruments that are usually made of stainless steel with bevelLed edges and contours that can conform to different body anatomical locations and allows for deeper penetration. It is used for the detection and treatment of soft tissue disorders..

Instruments effectively break down fascial restrictions and scar tissue.

The introduction of controlled microtrauma to affected soft tissue structure causes the stimulation of local inflammatory response.

Microtrauma initiates reabsorption of inappropriate fibrosis or excessive scar tissue and facilitates a cascade of healing activities resulting in remodelling of affected soft tissue structures.

Michele Caldon.

Bodywork therapist

Hey, I’m Michele, I am a bodywork therapist & level 3 Personal Trainer.

Ever since I started training I always had a big interest in the recovery of the body.

Our whole body is connected as one, a single system.

I utilise different types of techniques (Cupping, Myo-fascia release, Bowen technique, IASTM, Deep tissue) to help you get your body back where it should be.

I am here to help you restore balance in your body by helping you to release those tight muscles and aches.

If you’re currently training and in need of an MOT or just need to relax and unwind feel free to contact me for a consultation.

Book Your Next Massage

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Google Reviews

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “The Aleafia Recovery Suite is a little bit of heaven! Beautiful, relaxing and a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate.”

    -Inge Nickell

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “Hugely experienced and professional staff and service. I haven't had deep tissue massage before but I'm 100% going back for another! The only place in North Devon that could fit me into their busy schedule at short notice....Legends!”

    -Pete Vincent

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “I have been signed up on the transformation inside and out since october. In those 3 months I have become stronger, more toned, sleeping better and generally feeling better about myself. The staff are excellently trained to offer correct advice, and the classes are small. And to finish off the cafe do amazing matcha lattes and waffles. This place is fantastic....coming from someone who has always been allergic to gyms.”

    -Emma Marshall

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “After class the recovery suite is my new favourite place to be!”

    -Faith Bleasdale

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “I spent the day at Aleafia on the Release, Reset & Recharge day retreat and well it was an amazing, eye opening and emotional day. I came away with loads of tips to put into everyday life and learned a lot about myself. Would definitely do it again and would 100% recommend.”

    -Olivia

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “This place is absolutely wonderful. I’ve had a massage here and been to a yoga class. The owners are so lovely and down to earth and they really do everything they can for you. They are such positive people. Equipment is very new and I love that it’s all about health and wellness and you. The service is just all around brilliant and I’m now obsessed with matcha thanks to Lauren. A very safe space to be yourself.”

    -Sophie G

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “When I arrived for my treatment I was greeted so warmly and felt comfortable and at home the whole experience. My massage was catered to my specific needs and was also given extra advice and time after wed finished. I couldn't recommend Aleafia more and will be returning.”

    -Rosanna Marini

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “Aleafia is such a wonderful addition to North Devon, I'm so pleased it's arrived! Lauren & Michele always make everyone feel so welcome. Their yoga teachers are all fantastic, and it's such a lovely place to make new friends & be around like-minded people again. I love my visits here.”

    -P M

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “I was in Barnstaple for a week and this beautiful sanctuary is a hidden (must find) gem. I enjoyed a much needed massage that left me totally relaxed and at peace.  I then was blessed by a Buddha bowl and energised by a gorgeous smoothie. I wish there was an Aleafia in every town I go!  I can’t recommend it highly enough.”

    -Elizabeth Carter

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “I started online classes with Aleafia last year and really recommend them! I was a complete beginner with no exercise / gym experience, no equipment, and pretty nervous about starting out. But the trainers were always friendly & good at explaining/demonstrating things, so I soon relaxed and actually was surprised how much I enjoyed the sessions & my improved fitness. There's a wide variety of classes on offer and they mix up the exercises each week to keep things interesting.”

    -Laura Suisted

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “Thank you for the wonderful massage I had today, I will definitely come again. Beautiful place, delightful atmosphere, professional masseur,  attentive to the client's needs. I recommend it with confidence.”

    -Cris Tina

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “The Aleafia team have been there for me throughout lockdown. Always available to answer questions and offer advice. Lauren is great for accountability, and I can’t wait to get into the studio for some classes and their nutrition program!!”

    -Chloe Gratton

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “I have been going to Aleafia for over a year now. Such a great company. Friendly and caring staff always going that extra mile, tasty food/coffee and a wide range of classes + therapies for everyone.”

    -Mitch Rigler

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “This is my new favourite place in Barnstaple for fitness classes, the team are really friendly and knowledgeable, the space is beautiful and their tasty vegan treats are the perfect post workout motivation!”

    -Phil Veloso

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “My first Pilates session after recovering from a broken wrist Anna gave me clear instructions tailored to my needs I felt energised and look forward to my next session”

    -Pauline Jordan

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “One of the best massages I’ve had. How did I make it to 43 without having cupping? Can’t speak highly of enough.”

    -Simone Grey

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “Excellent Sports massage, really helped release some tension… many thanks, plan to make it a regular visit”

    -Anthony Bennett

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “Excellent, loved every minute of the class. Brilliant guidance, instructor was very thorough and helpful :)”

    -Jackie Robinson

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “I feel a lot more confident in myself and grounded in my body which is something I have always struggled with. I never thought I would be dying to get in the gym ⅘ times a week but I think that speaks volumes to how great Aleafia is. The staff are friendly and so knowledgeable, nothing is ever too much trouble whether it’s help in the gym, a chat about general wellness or a heart to heart! The yoga and meditation classes have also been extremely beneficial for my general happiness and wellness.”

    -Lucy Tucker

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “This was an amazing rejuvenating experience and possibly the best day yet at Aleafia and I am looking forward to continuing my journey with Neuro and Somatic yoga. The day was very well organised and led by Georgie and Matilde who made everyone relaxed and safe in their knowledge.”

    Thank you to Lauren for your continuing devotion to ensuring your clients are fulfilled in every way, helping them on their wellness journey.

    -Tracy Pichardo Almonte

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “Welcoming, friendly and make me feel positive about coming to ‘the gym’.

    I’ve lost weight, needed new clothes and had compliments about my healthy glow….. sounds like a line, but absolutely true!! Can’t thank these guys enough for helping me. 10 out of 10”

    -Ann-Marie Lepley

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “I love Aleafia. They have pivoted really well during the pandemic.

    They offer a vast array of classes online. They are encouraging and supportive.

    I like that Lauren also offers positivity and mindset classes too.

    I can’t wait for them to be open again there is a great family, supportive atmosphere.”

    -Victoria Wiltshire

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

     “Aleafia came along at just the right time for me. I love how friendly and welcoming Lauren, Michele and the team are. Always greeting you with a smile and a laugh. This is not your 'average' gym. It is sooo much more than that.”

    - Chloe Aston