Reviews
Getting regular massage for the last ten years since the first Ironman, since qualifying as a massage therapist, since pregnancy, childbirth, since setting up my practice, etc… just life in general… let’s just say I know massage is the right therapy for me to invest in frequently. The returns are 💯 when you choose the right place and it didn’t disappoint. The myofascial leg massage I received this afternoon was excellent and has relieved the tightness in my gastrocs and plantar fascia + it’s also fun to gain new perspectives and pick up some tricks on the way. Thanks Derek 🙌🫶🏼🫠🏳️🌈
Alice
I’ve been having regular treatments with Derek for my frozen shoulder and his hyper focus on helping me is so appreciated. It feels it’s a good stage further forward. Whatever he did last time was extraordinary… it hurt a lot but in a good way. My ROM is defintly improved.
John
Since my first treatment, my calf muscles have definitely felt a lot happier, and my swelling has reduced quite a bit so as not as tight. Overall, my foot pain is already so much better and I am keeping the stretching up. Thank you again so much for all your time on Friday. You made me feel comfortable and safe.
Mika
About
Hi, I’m Derek AKA The Gentle Man. I’m a compassionate, fully qualified therapist dedicated to helping you find relief from injury, chronic pain, stress, and fatigue through holistic, deep tissue, advanced clinical and sports massage treatments.
My approach is intuitive and respectful. After a full consultation, I create a bespoke treatment plan (typically 3–6 sessions) that meets your unique needs. I specialise in working with low back, neck and shoulder pain also migraines, depression and low mood and will explore possible psychological and social factors as well as physical symptoms.
I use the Jing Method and continue to extend my skills through ongoing studies at the Jing Institute, where I also serve as a Student Advisor.
Jing is advanced massage that is a fusion of Eastern and Western approaches. It's proven to deliver positive outcomes when it comes to alleviating pain and involves myofascial techniques and trigger point therapy.
I work part-time and run clinic days in Central Brighton (Saturdays) and Southwick (Fridays). For people I know well, I also offer treatments from my home in Portslade Old Village.
To those who value the convenience, I provide a mobile service and can travel to your home, venue, or holiday accommodation.
Every first Monday evening of the month, I offer low cost treatments at the Queer Clinic by the Jing Institute. Creating a safe, welcoming space for my LGBTQIA+ community is an utter joy.
I proudly serve a diverse client base and am deeply committed to being trauma-informed and as inclusive as possible. (Heck I even treat tennis players!) I offer GRSD-affirming therapy and strive to recognise intersectionality in every aspect of my practice.
If you’re ready to experience caring, personalized massage therapy, working to improve range of motion and reduce pain, I’d be honoured to help. Book an initial appointment and let’s work together to improve how you're feeling.
Info
I have full cover with Balens, a specialist insurance provider.
I am a qualified, professional therapist and hold a Level 3 Diploma in Holistic & Deep Tissue Massage having trained with Michael Gibbons at the College of Classical Massage in Brighton.
Additionally, I have trained in the Jing Method under the tuition of Meghan Mari and Rachel Fairweather, co-directors of the Jing Institute.
I’m currently working towards my Professional Diploma in Advanced Clinical & Sports Massage (BTEC Level 6). This is an elite course and the highest massage qualification in UK.
Techniques include a fusion of Eastern & Western approaches - trigger point therapy, myofascial release, sports stretching, acupressure, Amma and Thai massage.
What kind of massage services do you provide?
Holistic, sometimes known as Swedish or Deep Tissue with additional Advanced Clinical Techniques including trigger point therapy, sports stretches and myofascial release.
What are the benefits of massage?
Massage is hugely relaxing and rejuvenating, encourages healing and balance with the body, eases tired muscles and promotes better sleep and positive mood.
When delivered with compassion and skill, massage can be highly effective in helping regulate physical and emotional stresses. I am trauma-informed and particularly passionate about working with clients with chronic pain, experiencing depression, anxiety or low mood.
Advanced Clinical massage (similar to remedial massage) techniques, particularly the Jing Method, can prove incredibly effective in easing chronic/persistent pain conditions.
I have experience treating low back pain, stiff necks, frozen shoulder, arthritis, Ehlers Danlos syndrome, facet joint syndrome, Raynaud's disease, headaches, migraine, depression, perimenopause and chronic fatigue.
How often should I have a massage?
If you’re living with chronic pain or depression, weekly treatments are recommended initially. The Jing Method has been proven to achieve excellent results (e.g. significant reduction in pain) after 3-6 treatments then ongoing maintenance.
If you're not in pain, let's keep it that way! Prioritise self-care as often as you can.
Many of my clients schedule monthly appointments to help sustain their emotional and physical wellbeing.
Can you cure my pain and eliminate stress?
Let's give it a go! But don't expect to turnaround chronic conditions or system bad posture and habits in one treatment... It's massage not miracles.
That said, I'm trained in the Jing Method and have achieved great results over 3-6 sessions.
As well as giving you an amazing massage, I’ll work with you in a compassionate and honest way offering guidance and self-care strategies. (Yep that means homework and exercises to do!)
Together we can discuss the factors impacting your body and mind and consider hacks and longer-term changes to your life that would help achieve what you want.
Do you only offer gentle pressure?
No! But if you're thinking "no pain, no gain" that is a nonsense - bruising you is not the desired outcome. The body heals gently - not to mention the mind and spirit...
We will discuss your preferences and desired outcomes and I’ll work with you to tailor my treatments, working slowly and building appropriate levels of pressure using a ‘listening touch’.
We will ‘check-in’ regularly throughout your treatment and can adjust to ensure lighter or firmer work, as desired.
Treatments
A bespoke, Jing Method treatment incorporating advanced clinical massage techniques to promote healing, reduce stress and target chronic pain conditions.
Together, we will agree a treatment plan and I will work intuitively with you using a fusion of holistic massage, deep tissue, trigger point therapy, myofascial release, stretching and self care advice.
Note, depending on the severity of your condition, using Jing Method protocols, an initial series of three to six treatments are recommended.
A soothing massage using holistic (also known as Swedish or classical) and myofascial techniques.
You may choose a full body treatment or more focused massage. Gentle music, choice of oils and my safe, listening touch will relieve tired muscles and soothe your mind.
I’m delighted to be part of the team offer treatments at the Queer Clinic @ Jing Institute. A monthly opportunity for members of the LGBTQ+ community (and their guests) to access affordable massage.
First Monday of each month 6-9.30pm
Pay what you can options £30/£45/£60
Cut and paste this link to book: https://queer-clinic-by-the-jing-institute.square.site
