Massage has many benefits, including for the mind, muscles, skin and immune system, but maybe the one it is most often associated with is relaxation. There are various different types of massage, some more focused on treating injury or releasing tight muscles, some more focused on nervous system relaxation. If you’re looking for a relaxing massage rather than one that addresses specific physical problems, then these are the best choices.
Best choices for a relaxing massage
Hot stones massage
Hot stones massage is carried out with basalt stones, heated in hot water. The therapist holds the stones in the palms of her hands and glides them over the client’s skin. The feelings of comfort and warmth that the stones give help to promote mental relaxation and an overall sense of wellbeing. The calming effect of the stones encourages the body to decrease cortisol production and enter “rest and digest” mode. (This is the opposite of the “fight or flight” mode that stress causes us to be in.) Hot stones massage is particularly good for relieving stress and anxiety and improving sleep problems.
Aromatherapy massage
Aromatherapy is the practice of using essential oils from plants to benefit health and well being. Essential oils have various health benefits, depending on which plant they come from. Unlike many alternative therapies, aromatherapy has a basis in science. It’s well established that the chemical components of the oils have beneficial properties. Many of the oils have been proven to have a calming, relaxing effect. These include:
- Chamomile
- Clary sage
- Ylang ylang
- Frankincense
- Cedarwood
- Marjoram
- Lavender
If you choose to have an aromatherapy relaxing massage I will make up a relaxing blend to use in the massage oil, as well as using the blend in a diffuser in the room.
Facial including face, neck, shoulder & head massage
As well as benefitting skin, facials are effective for relaxation and mental well-being. All parts of facial treatments are soothing and relaxing, but the massage part of the treatment is especially helpful for relaxation Many people hold tension in their facial muscles, particularly in the jaw, forehead, and around the eyes. Massaging these areas relieves stress, reduces headaches, and encourages relaxation. It also helps to calm the mind and lower cortisol levels. Scalp massage has similar benefits for relaxation.
Relaxing massage options/prices
| Treatment | Price |
|---|---|
| 45 minute hot stones back & shoulder massage | £40 |
| 45 minute facial | £35 |
| 60 minute facial | £45 |
| 45 minute hot stones back & shoulder massage plus 45 minute facial | £75 |
| 45 minute hot stones back & shoulder massage plus 60 minute facial | £85 |
| Add aromatherapy to any treatment | Add £3 |
Book a relaxing massage
Fill out the booking enquiry form below. You can see my working hours and upcoming availability here. If you want to know availability further ahead than what is shown, let me know on the form when you would be interested in booking for and I’ll get back to you.
Body Benefits Chelmsford
