"Swedish massage" is simply known as "classic massage". And that is exactly what it is - a classic treatment which represents the western standard for massage. 

What is Swedish Massage?

Swedish massage is a whole-body therapeutic massage treatment that works the soft tissues and muscles to help restore health - creating a calming and balancing effect on the nervous system.

The massage therapist will use five main types of massage techniques in a Swedish massage: stroking and gliding; kneading; rubbing; tapping or pounding; vibration.

What are the benefits of Swedish massage?

The various Swedish massage techniques, created by the Father of Swedish Massage, Per Henrik Ling, are designed to improve your circulation, soothe your muscles and make you feel more relaxed.

Unlike deep tissue massage, Swedish massage therapy uses softer strokes on the bonier and more delicate parts of the body, and stronger strokes where there is thicker muscle coverage. This adjustment of pressure makes it an ideal massage for relaxation.

Best known for soothing tight muscles and boosting well-being, Swedish massage also offers a whole host of other health benefits, including:

• easing muscular strain by flushing out toxins
• * improving blood circulation and blow flow throughout the body
  * helping to keep ligaments and tendons supple and improving range of motion
  * reducing emotional and physical stress
  * easing back pain and chronic pain

As with all treatments, inform our therapist of any medical conditions you may have and tell them if you are or just think you might be pregnant.

It's best to avoid heavy meals and alcohol in the hours leading up to your massage.

Your therapist might assess your complexion at the start of your treatment and choose essential oils or lotions to suit your skin type. She will massage these into your body with a series of strokes and techniques specific to the part of your body and what you want to achieve; for example, this might be long, gliding strokes across your back to help you relax, or kneading or rubbing your shoulders to unwind any knots. The treatment takes into account the delicate or tender areas of your body, so it should be comfortable and soothing.

Afterwards, you'll probably feel quite relaxed and maybe even sleepy, so give yourself plenty of time to unwind. Savour the feeling of having every muscle in your body gently stretched and smoothed out.

All massage can leave you feeling thirsty and needing to go to the toilet more than usual - this is because the massage has got your lymph circulation going and your body is flushing out toxins. Drink plenty of water afterwards as you slowly drift back to planet Earth.