Kisimul launch ‘Story Massage’ programme in Lincolnshire
Children and young people in the care and education of Kisimul are set to benefit from an exciting new relaxing and calming approach as they have launched the Story Massage Programme.
Gemma Armstrong, Swinderby Lead Educational Psychology Assistant, has recently completed training in the Story Massage Programme and is now a Story Massage practitioner. Using this unique approach, Gemma will combine positive, nurturing touch with the creativity of storytelling as part of Kisimul’s bespoke package of care, education and therapy.
Established in 2012 by Mary Atkinson and Sandra Hooper, Story Massage uses ten simple massage strokes, such as The Circle, The Wave, and The Calm, to bring words to life through gentle, respectful touch.
Gemma Armstrong said, “The beauty of Story Massage is its flexibility. It can be tailored to individual preferences, used one-to-one, in groups, or even as self-massage. It’s a gentle, creative way to promote wellbeing and engagement and will offer a safe and structured way for children and young people to experience the benefits while building trust and communication.
“I can’t wait to get started and put what I have learnt into practice for the benefit of our young people.”
It will help the individuals and the care Kisimul provides through:
- Sensory Regulation: Massage stories provide calming input, helping reduce stress and support transitions.
- Emotional Wellbeing: The combination of soothing strokes and familiar stories can boost confidence and self-esteem.
- Social Connection: Sharing massage stories encourages positive interaction and strengthens relationships between practitioners and peers.
- Learning Through Touch: Story Massage can be linked to curriculum topics, turning lessons into multi-sensory experiences.
Kisimul Group Limited provides adult and children’s homes situated in Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, Shropshire, Peterborough/Cambridgeshire and Greater London. For more information about Kisimul visit www.kisimul.co.uk