What is a “Swedish Massage”?

Swedish Massage at Martin & Phelps Beauty Salon in Cheltenham

Now that close contact services are allowed once more, we have many clients looking for services to help relax and rejuvenate them following a challenging year. The Swedish Massage is one of our favourite ways to feel relaxed physically and mentally.

What we know as a "Swedish Massage" is simply known as a "Classic Massage" in Sweden. This is well named as it is the classic massage treatment which represents the standard in the west for a massage.

The Swedish massage at Martin & Phelps Hair & Beauty Salon in Cheltenham utilises five main techniques which you may be familiar with - stroking and gliding, kneading, rubbing, tapping or pounding, and vibration..

What is Swedish Massage Good For?

The Swedish massage techniques are designed to soothe your muscles and make you feel more relaxed in body and mind. 

Swedish massage is also thought to be beneficial for : 

• Flushing out toxins to ease muscular strain
• Increasing oxygen flow in the blood by improving circulation
• Helping to keep ligaments and tendons supple
• Reducing emotional and physical stress

What to Expect From a Swedish Massage at Martin & Phelps

Your massage will probably last around 60 or 90 minutes. Your therapist will give you time to undress privately and lie down on the massage table, where you may cover yourself with towels. You will not be completely exposed during your massage, your Martin & Phelps therapist will uncover only the part of the body that they are focussing on at each point. If you're unsure or worried about anything, please don't hesitate to say so - this is supposed to be a relaxing and enjoyable experience for you.

Your therapist might assess your skin prior to your treatment to choose the right lotions and essential oils to suit you, we may also ask you to choose any aromatherapy oils dependant on what you want from your massage - energising, soothing etc. Your therapist 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 more firmly at your shoulders to unwind any painful knots.

The Swedish Massage treatment takes into account the delicate or tender areas of your body and should be comfortable and soothing. We will discuss with you any pains or concerns and what you wish to achieve from your Swedish Massage so that we can tailor the treatment to your needs. 

Relaxing During a Swedish Massage

Some therapists like to play soothing music during that massage, as it can help you to relax and unwind. If you'd prefer not to have the music or if there's anything else in the treatment room that you do not like please let your Martin & Phelps massage therapist know. 

Our therapists are very sensitive to how much their client wants to communicate and will limit or encourage conversation accordingly. Some people like to chat a little, others don't and that's ok - we don't insist on silence! Chatting or not doesn't actually matter for the massage as long as you're comfortable, relaxed and receptive.

Afterwards, you'll feel relaxed and maybe even a little sleepy (if you've not already nodded off on the table), so give yourself plenty of time to unwind from the massage and some back to yourself. Savour the feeling of having every muscle in your body gently manipulated and smoothed out.

The Different Types of Swedish Massage

Because Swedish massage is the classic western form of massage, the strokes and techniques form the basis for many other treatments; here are some therapies which may include Swedish massage:

• Back, Neck & Shoulder Massage
• Stress Reduction Massage

How to Prepare for Your Swedish Massage

The oils and lotions used in massage can stain fabrics, so it's a good idea to opt for your least favourite underwear. 
As with all treatments, please inform your Martin & Phelps therapist of any medical conditions you may have and tell them if you are - or suspect that you might be - pregnant.

It i also advised that you avoid heavy meals and alcohol in the hours leading up to your massage.

Hot Tip - What To Do After Your Swedish Massage

All massage can leave you feeling super 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 after your massage as you slowly drift back to planet Earth. Avoid caffeine and sip on herbal teas throughout the rest of the day.

Book Your Swedish Massage at Martin & Phelps Beauty Salon in Cheltenham

Treat yourself to some "me time", soothe aching muscles and improve your circulation with a Full Body Swedish Massage at our Cheltenham beauty salon. To book your appointment, please call us on  01242 523 568 or book securely online using the pop up button to the right of this page.