As a bad-back sufferer, over the years (nay decades) I’ve tried pretty much every therapy going to help alleviate the pain, from traditional osteopaths and chiropractors, through to acupuncture, cupping and Bowen therapy, with some success, but none offering miracle cures. I’m still game though and interested to try new therapies, and when I heard about a new therapy that is a bespoke mix of lymphatic drainage, passive stretching, and osteopathic scooping, I’m all ears. Maybe the fact that lymphatic drainage can help with bloating and increase collagen may have swayed me too if I’m completely honest!
I head to Argentum Apothecary, a beautiful shop, coffee shop and therapy centre situated in a lovely corner building in Holland Park where I meet the founder of The Axo Method, Guillaume Guibordeau. The AXO Method embodies a revolutionary approach to holistic therapy, founded on the principles of scientific research and a commitment to enhancing mental and physical well-being, and at the heart of the Method lies a comprehensive therapy approach that integrates three key techniques:
Osteopathic Scooping involves manual scooping massage techniques, rooted in osteopathic principles, to release tension, improve circulation, and stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanisms. By enhancing circulation, osteopathic scooping promotes the delivery of hormones to target tissues, fostering hormonal balance and overall well-being. Passive Stretching targets stretching exercises and techniques are used to enhance flexibility, relieve muscle tension, and improve joint mobility. Stress hormones, such as cortisol, can disrupt hormonal balance, and stretching therapy helps alleviate tension, promoting equilibrium and holistic wellness. Lymphatic Drainage is a specialised massage technique employed to stimulate the lymphatic system, facilitating the removal of waste products, toxins, and excess fluid from the body. This process supports immune function and hormone regulation, promoting detoxification and hormonal balance.
“Our unique fusion of osteopathic scooping movements, stretching therapy, and lymphatic drainage as well as our continuous training forms the cornerstone of our treatment philosophy. The AXO Method’s immediate and tangible results distinguish us in a competitive market. Clients experience profound shifts from the very first session, as their bodies realign with peak functionality.” Guillaume Guibordeau, Co-Founder
Guillaume, who is very charming, leads me to a cosy, fragrant treatment and soon puts me ease, which is some feat as he starts strongly pummelling my stomach! There is no getting away from the fact that some of the treatment does feel uncomfortable, but it’s the kind of feeling that you can cope with as you know the results will make it worth it. Like the mix of treatments that it truly is, he explains what he’s doing and why as he makes his way around my body, pulling here and pushing there. Apparently helpful for balancing hormones, as someone going through the peri-menopause I’m hoping this will help. I leave the treatment room feeling like I’m floating on air. My limbs feel looser, my back doesn’t hurt, and over the next couple of days I notice my stomach is a lot flatter.
Out of all the treatments I’ve had, I can hand on heart say that I’ll be going back for more treatments with Guillaume or one of his team of therapists. The bespoke, holistic approach means the treatment is completely unique and can encompass all sorts of issues from hormonal to skeletal, and anything in between.
The Axo Method at Argentum Apothecary, Portland Road, London W11
