Swedish/Body Massage Therapy

What is Swedish / Body Massage? 

Massage has been used for 1000’s of years  as an instinctive way to relieve muscle tension and to relax the body and mind.  Swedish Massage uses a variety of stroking, kneading, pressure and flowing movements over the body and face to help to address  and prevent a huge variety of complaints, or can simply be used for deep relaxation.  The way that we feel can have a direct physical effect on our body, so by inducing relaxation and stress relief both the body and mind can benefit from a massage treatment.  Massage is a holistic approach that can be used alongside or as an alternative to conventional medicines.

Benefits of Swedish Massage

Touch is an amazing sensation and the most basic form of communication we receive from the minute we are born.  Parents cradle their babies to soothe and comfort and even as adults we embrace to re-create a feeling of comfort, love and protection.  It makes sense therefore that other forms of touch such as massage, can bring about such feelings of relaxation, comfort and well-being.

Here are just some of the potential benefits of Swedish Body Massage:

  • Promotes relaxation, thereby reducing stress and anxiety
  • Ease of muscular tension, soreness and stiffness
  • Improved skin tone, circulation and elasticity
  • Elimination of toxins and swelling
  • Boosts immune system
  • Relieves tired and stiff joints
  • Increases energy levels by invigorating the body’s natural systems
  • Aids better sleep and reduces insomnia

Swedish massage has proven effective in helping with : muscle aches and pains, headaches and migraines, depression, emotional conditions, poor circulation, low immune system, IBS and digestive disorders, anxiety and stress and insomnia but is in no way limited to this list.

Who can enjoy Swedish Massage?

As with all hands-on holistic therapies, Swedish massage may not be suitable for everyone and certain medical conditions may prevent the use of this massage, or may require your GP’s consent.  A full consultation will be carried out before your first session which enables us to ensure that Swedish massage is right for you.  Please feel free to call or email us if you would like to check your suitability before your appointment.

What happens during a Swedish Massage ?

You will be asked to remove your clothing (except underpants) behind a privacy screen and make yourself comfortable on the massage couch, with a large towel to cover your body.  During the massage, only the part of your body being massaged will be exposed, to ensure your modesty. A plant-based massage oil will be applied to the skin to allow free movement of the massage techniques and to nourish the skin.  A full body massage usually includes the back, legs,feet, abdomen, arms,hands,  chest and neck, face and scalp, although this can be adapted to suit your individual requirements or preferences.

After-care advice                                              

Swedish massage has a detoxifying effect on the body and you can encourage this by drinking plenty of water and avoiding caffeine, nicotine and alcohol for the next 24 hours.  Also try to avoid any strenuous exercise for 24 hours following therapy and try to rest and allow your body to heal from within.


Greenhouse Therapies Holistic Therapies & Sports Massage Training
VTCT Accredited Training Centre,
40 Parkgate Road, Chester CH14AJ Tel 01244 637851
Providing Holistic, Complementary, Alternative Therapies, Massage Therapy and Reiki Training Courses at Introductory, Accredited and Professional levels.