Swedish Massage

What is a Swedish Massage?

Swedish massage is the most common type of Western massage therapy and uses a combination of five principle massage strokes; effleurage, kneading, friction, stretching and tapping. It’s based on a Western approach to anatomy and physiology rather than the flow of energy in the body, which is often the focus of Asian massage techniques.

 

The therapist will start with a consultation about your current health and any areas where you may be experiencing discomfort. The therapist will leave the room to allow you to undress. You will cover yourself a towel and when you are ready, the therapist will re-enter the room to start the massage.

Only exposing the area that they are working on, using a technique known as draping, the therapist will start the massage targeting all the major muscle groups. As described above Swedish massage involves a combination of five principle massage strokes (effleurage, kneading, friction, stretching and tapping) to warm up and soften the muscle tissue to release any tension.

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Massage oil, usually plant-based oils such as grape seed oil or almond oil, will be used to lubricate your skin for easy smooth movement over the skin. The therapist will put about a teaspoon full onto her palm and rub her hands together to warm up the oil.

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You can request more work on any area that is giving you particular trouble as well as requesting a lighter or heavier touch. However please note that every therapist is different and you should specify at the time of booking if you prefer a firm massage.

 

Aftercare advice

To aid the healing process and get maximum benefits from the treatment, it is essential to follow the advice outlined below.

To avoid irritation, for 24 hours after treatment:

  • Drink plenty of water to assist the body's detoxification process. It is strongly advised to drink a full glass of water immediately after the treatment to avoid headaches that can be caused by the toxins released through the massage.

  • Avoid eating a heavy meal after treatment. Try to keep the diet light while the body is using its energy for healing.

  • Avoid further toxins and stimulants such as smoking, alcohol, drugs, tea & coffee.

  • Avoid heat treatments & applying further products to the skin as it may be sensitive

  • Avoid strenuous exercise to allow the body to use its energy for healing

  • If oil has been used in the treatment, leave in for a couple of hours if possible to nourish skin & hair.

 

General lifestyle advice to prolong benefits of massage:

  • Don't smoke

  • Get 8 hours of sleep per night

  • Exercise 2-3 times per week

  • Take time to relax - take up a hobby or simply have a hot bath to relax the muscles and let mental tensions wash away

  • Practice Tai Chi, Yoga or meditation if appropriate

  • Practice the correct breathing techniques to create a feeling of calm

 

General dietary advice to aid the benefits of massage:

  • Drink 2 litres of water per day

  • Eat a healthy, balanced diet

  • Avoid fast food

  • Eat 5 portions of fresh fruit and vegetables per day

  • Avoid alcohol as it dehydrates the body

It is advised to receive massage once a week for 4-6 weeks to initiate the healing process then once a month to maintain the benefits although this will vary from client to client.

 

Please note that in some medical conditions it will completely prevent a treatment from taking place, please check this list, and make us aware of any medical conditions that you have or are currently been treated for.