For the un-pampered amongst us, a massage is just a massage. Whatever words they throw before it on the spa menu, we know that the massage will involve oils, ocean music, scented candles – and a high chance of making us feel very relaxed and sleepy. What we don’t know is that there’s a lot more to it than that – and those words on the menu actually do mean something!
There are countless varieties of massage available, and the options can often depend on where you go and how much you’re willing to pay. Let’s start with the basics – the relaxing Swedish massage that can be found at virtually every spa, including those inside hotels in Marble Arch.
Swedish Massage
Generally the most readily available across London (and with plenty of special offers available online!) the Swedish massage is a fantastic option for those who want to treat themselves but who may be worried about reacting sensitively to the touch of the therapist. Ideal for those new to massage, this treatment is usually quite short, most often lasting around 30 minutes, and can help release muscle knots that are making you feel tense. A great choice for those spending a few days in London who are looking for a relaxing way to end their stay.
Sports Massage
The iconic sports massage is not to be entered into lightly and is best enjoyed as part of a spa package after a strenuous day of activity, whether that be a football match or sightseeing.
Sports massages focus on the muscles engaged during physical activity and sport, and tend to be intense with deep pressure and extreme stretching. This type of massage can improve your sports performance through the encouragement of increased flexibility, and is often performed immediately after a big race or sporting event – to release tension from the muscles and promote active healing.
Hot stone massage
Hot stone massage is perfect for those with aches and pains, as it relies on heated stones placed on different areas of the body after a gentle massage from your therapist. The stones improve blood flow and relieve pain, promoting relaxation and relieving stress. As this tends to be a much longer treatment, generally around 90 minutes or so, it’s often more expensive than the Swedish massage.
Of course, the money is worth it and after this one, you’ll be relaxed and ready to retire to your flat or your luxury hotel rooms in London.
Trigger point massage
Last on our list, and not such a relaxing one, is the trigger point massage. This option is designed for those suffering from injury or chronic pain as it focuses on specific issues and uses trigger points in the body to relax problem areas. This type of massage combines gentle strokes of the body with strong deeper pressure, to relieve the trigger points of your pain and promote release.
Of course, there are a great deal more types of massage available – it all depends on where you look. However, these are four of the most popular massages available across London today, so why not treat yourself to a bit of me-time and try something new.
Olivia's Travel Tips 