Weds: Holy Trinity Hall, 1 Aberystwyth Crescent, Barry CF62 7EH - 5.30pm
Thurs: Rhoose Community Centre, Stewart Rd, Rhoose CF62 3EZ - 5.15pm
Group Yoga Sessions
1-2-1 Yoga and Reflexology & Sports Massage Sessions available by appointment.
Sunflower Holistics Wales
Holistic wellbeing through yoga, reflexology and massage.
Email for availablity, or click above to call. Late appointments and weekend slots available.
All treatments include consultation and after-care advice.
Full 55 minute treatment - £45
Express 30 minute treatment - £20

Sports Massage in Cardiff & the Vale of Glamorgan
Looking for a friendly, professional sports massage in Penarth, Cardiff or the Vale of Glamorgan? At Sunflower Holistics Wales, Rachael offers tailored sports massage treatments designed to ease muscle tension, support mobility and help you feel more comfortable in your body.
Whether you are active, recovering from a minor strain, dealing with everyday desk tension, or simply looking after your general wellbeing, each treatment is adapted to your needs, comfort level and areas of concern.
Benefits of Sports Massage
What is sports massage?
Sports massage is a hands-on therapeutic treatment that uses specific techniques to release muscle tension, tightness and discomfort. It can help to stretch and loosen muscles, support general body maintenance, target problem areas, aid recovery and improve mobility.
The pace and pressure of your treatment can be modified to suit you. You do not need to be sporty or athletic to benefit from sports massage.
What is the difference between sports massage and regular massage?
Many techniques used in sports massage and regular massage can be similar, but the focus is often different.
A regular massage may be slower, lighter and more relaxation-focused, without necessarily targeting a specific problem area.
Sports massage is usually more targeted and can be used to support flexibility, ease pain or discomfort, improve range of movement and assist recovery from muscle tightness or everyday strain.
Who is sports massage suitable for?
Sports massage can be suitable for many people, not just athletes. It may be helpful for:
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people with muscle tension or tightness
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those who sit at a desk or drive for long periods
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people who exercise regularly
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those recovering from minor strains or general aches
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anyone looking to improve mobility and comfort
If you are looking for sports massage near Penarth, Cardiff, Sully, Barry or the wider Vale of Glamorgan, Rachael will discuss your needs before treatment and tailor the session accordingly.
As with all holistic therapies, there are some contraindications. Sports massage may not be suitable if you have, or are awaiting diagnosis for, certain medical conditions.
Please disclose all relevant medical history before treatment, including:
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blood clots, DVT or thrombosis
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heart conditions or vascular disorders
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recent surgery within the last 12 weeks
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fever or infection
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intoxication
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new sprains, fractures, swelling or redness
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varicose veins
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pregnancy
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blood disorders
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osteoporosis or bone conditions
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any condition currently awaiting medical results or diagnosis
Some conditions can be worked around. For example, a recent sprain may be avoided while other areas of the body are treated. If you are unsure, please get in touch before booking.
What are the benefits of sports massage?
A sports massage can offer a range of physical and mental wellbeing benefits, including:
Pain relief and reduced muscle soreness
Sports massage may help ease muscle discomfort and support recovery after activity or general strain.
Improved circulation
Massage can encourage blood flow to muscles and soft tissues, helping to support the body’s natural recovery process.
Improved flexibility and mobility
Targeted techniques can help release tightness and improve range of movement.
Reduced tension and stress
Massage can help calm the nervous system, encourage relaxation and support overall wellbeing.
Support for everyday aches and desk strain
Sports massage is not only for sports injuries. It can also be helpful for tension caused by sitting, driving, repetitive movement or busy day-to-day life.
Whether you are recovering from a sprain, training regularly, or dealing with everyday neck, shoulder, back or leg tension, Rachael can tailor your treatment to your exact needs.
As an added bonus, all products used are vegan and nut-free.


What should I wear?
Please wear clothing that is either easy to remove, if you feel comfortable doing so, or loose clothing that can be moved to access the area being treated.
For leg treatments, loose shorts can be helpful. For back, shoulder or upper body treatments, please consider whether straps or fastenings are easy to move or unclip.
Your comfort and dignity are always a priority. Towels will be used carefully throughout the treatment and you will never be asked to remove clothing you do not wish to remove.
I work 9-5 - can I still book in?
Yes. Rachael is available on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays until 7pm, with some weekend availability too.
Please contact Sunflower Holistics Wales via email, social media or mobile to book your appointment.
What qualifications and insurance does Rachael have?
Rachael is qualified to Level 3 in Sports Massage and is a member of the FHT — Federation of Holistic Therapists. She is also fully insured.
How much does sports massage cost?
Full 55-minute treatment: £45
Express 30-minute treatment: £20
Yoga students receive a 10% discount, and special offers are available from time to time.
Sunflower Holistics Wales also uses a loyalty card system — like a coffee shop, but better for you.
Home visits may be available. A £5 travel fee applies outside Sully.
Aftercare and possible side effects
It is best to wait at least two hours after eating before receiving treatment.
After your sports massage, we recommend:
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drinking plenty of water
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eating only a light meal or snack afterwards
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avoiding alcohol and caffeine where possible
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resting where needed
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choosing herbal tea if you would like something calming after treatment
Some people may experience mild side effects after massage, such as:
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feeling cooler than usual
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nausea or digestive changes
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headache or light-headedness
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aching muscles for up to 24 hours
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tiredness or fatigue
These responses are usually temporary and can be part of the body settling after treatment.
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