L'AMOUR
MASSAGE THERAPY
What is a relaxation massage?
Most massage treatments will relax you, among other things. With a relaxation massage, relaxing you is the only aim. For this reason, it is one of the most complete and indulgent massages you can have.
Definitions vary, but a relaxation massage is usually a full-body treatment involving soft music, soft lighting and aromatherapy oils. You will have a long, luxurious massage which will use all kinds of techniques including long strokes, gentle kneading and rolling of skin and muscle, and perhaps some rhythmic rocking from side to side.
Relaxation massage is a passive treatment. You probably won't be stretched or manoeuvred into any yoga-like positions, as you are, for example, in Thai massage. You just lie there and take it. This is the massage to choose if you just want to chill out, and be pampered and spoiled.
What is relaxation massage good for?
The clue to relaxation massage is in the title. A good relaxation massage relieves stress and tension in your muscles and will leave you oozing with a sense of wellbeing. Relaxation massage achieves this because of the general benefits of massage: it improves your circulation, so your organs and skin get more oxygen; it moves fluid through your lymphatic system.
A relaxation massage encourages your body to digest its food, and get rid of its toxins. It will help you to sleep better. A massage will also help un-knot any muscles, soothe aches and sprains and encourage the skin to heal minor abrasions.
Before you go
Because of the differences in definition of the "relaxation massage", it is a good idea to call beforehand and find out about what you will be getting. There's likely to be some soft music - in spas and treatment rooms, they tend to use a kind of music that is almost impossible to describe. It's featureless yet calming.
Precautions
Before any massage treatment, avoid large meals or alcohol. Drink plenty of water, which will help your body to flush the toxins out of your body. It's also a good idea to give yourself plenty of time either side of the massage, so that you don't feel rushed.
You should always tell your therapist in advance if you:
* are, or think you might be, pregnant
* have any medical conditions or are receiving any treatment or medication
* have recently had an injury or operation
* are allergic to anything, particularly skin allergies
* have any broken skin or sores on your scalp as this may affect the kind of oil and treatment you receive.
What to expect from a relaxation massageAs relaxation massage is a whole-body treatment, you will be given towels or a robe to wrap yourself in. During the massage, you will lie on a cushioned massage or treatment table and the masseur will employ skilfully-positioned towels to protect your dignities. The important thing here is that you feel comfortable. If you're very self-conscious or want to keep some of your clothes on, do. It's your massage and you need to feel comfortable if you're going to feel more relaxed!
A good masseur will work with whatever suits you. The room is quiet, private and warm. Unlike other treatments, relaxation massage does not usually entail much discussion beforehand. However, you should let your therapist know if you have any particular physical problems, or are receiving any other medical treatments.
Hot tip!Go to the toilet before your massage. You will not relax if you feel you need to pee in the middle and don't know whether or not to say so!
Afterwards
The benefits of one relaxation massage can last days, but you need to give it a chance to do that. Try not to plan any hectic activity immediately afterwards.
Some treatment rooms or spas will give you an option of having a lie-down or snooze afterwards. This is probably exactly what you will feel like doing - listen to your body! It can seem surreal and is probably pointless, for example, to go straight back to work if you are feeling so relaxed you can hardly speak!
Call us to book today
