Swedish Massage

Although massage is as old as mankind, Swedish Massage has a much more recent history. It was developed by Pehr Henrik Ling (1776-1839) in Sweden, who was a Swedish fencing master and physiologist. The massage was based on the techniques he had learned in the Far East, which helped keep his fencing students supple and agile. The use of these techniques developed in the West into what we now know as Swedish Massage.

Pehr Henrik Ling was not able to describe the movements used with terminology we recognise today. It was Dutch practitioner Johan Georg Mezger (1838-1909) who researched the origins of the massage and gymnastics, and therefore adopting French names to describe the basic strokes of the systemised massage we know today.

The Treatment

This massage focuses on the musculo-skeletal system and uses recognised movements, such as Effleurage, Friction, Petrissage, Tapotement to manipulate the soft tissue of the body and to reduce muscle spasm and relieve pain. As well as affecting each of the physiological systems of the body for example cardiovascular, lymphatic, endocrine, etc. Swedish Massage also has the psychological effect of either invigoration or relaxation.

Treatment Benefits

Reduction in muscle spasm, pain and tension
Release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers
Relaxation and therefore reduction in anxiety
Improved blood circulation
Improved lymphatic drainage
Improved mobility
Reduction of swelling caused by an accumulation of fluid in the tissues
Balancing the overall flow of natural life energy through the body
Inducing a feeling of well-being through the comfort of human touch

Before and After your Treatment

Here is some guidance on what to do to prepare for your treatment along with what you can expect after the treatment too

Try to avoid eating a large meal at least 1 hour before your treatment. Please also refrain from consuming alcohol or using other substances before any treatment or therapy.
Arrive on time. This insures that you don’t arrive flustered and stressed. It also means that you will get the most out of your treatment. We ask all clients to arrive 10-15 minutes before their treatment is due to begin.
Talk to your therapist. If you are concerned or anxious about anything to do with your treatment let us know. We want to make sure you are comfortable and relaxed.
We ask our clients to ensure they arrive clean and ready for their treatment. If you are coming straight from work or the gym, please let us know and we can arrange for the use of our shower facilities before the treatment. (A surcharge will apply).
All new clients will need to complete a full medical and lifestyle questionnaire before their treatment. All existing clients will need to complete a treatment record card before any subsequent treatments. This is to ensure we can provide you with the best possible care and to comply with our insurance policies.
Please wear loose comfortable clothing and appropriate underwear. For any spa treatments, a robe will be provided for your comfort.

Everyone client has to complete a medical and lifestyle questionaire on their first visit - we ask you to arrive early (approximately 20 minutes) to allow you time to complete this in our relaxation area. On every subsequent visit you will be asked to confirm that none of the details have changed. This is primarily for your protection and to ensure we are aware of any contra-indications before providing tretment. It is also a requirment of our insurers.

Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins; massage aids the removal of toxins from the body
Coffee, tea and cola should be avoided as they contain caffeine. Aim to drink two glasses of water after each drink of tea or coffee if not. Or try to drink herbal infusions in place of tea or coffee
Avoid any headache tablets as these too contain caffeine
Avoid eating a heavy meal. Eat a light and natural diet, as refined and processed foods add to the toxicity levels within the body and hinder the natural healing process
Do not smoke or drink alcohol for the next 24 hours. Alcohol and smoking are counter-productive as they increase the levels of toxins in the body.

Healing Crisis

Some people may experience the following after treatment: