Swedish Massage

“Happiness resides not in possessions; not in gold, happiness dwells in the soul.”

Democritus

A regular massage can do wonders for one’s stress levels, it is believed to reduce stress of both the body and mind. What better way to treat yourself.

History of Massage

Hippocrates

Massage therapy can be dated back centuries with the earliest references to massage found to date back to 2700 BC in China.  In ancient Greece, Hippocrates (he’s the statue) referred to it as the ‘father of medicine’ in the West and makes references to ‘rubbing for loosening and softening of muscles’. There are many types of massage available to this day. Swedish massage was developed by Dr Ling in Sweden in the nineteenth century based on techniques used in Swedish gymnastics. Swedish massage uses the following techniques: effleurage, petrissage, friction, tapotement and vibration to provide a wonderful massage to reduce both physical and emotional stress in the body. 

Using the massage techniques increase the detoxification process, helping to increase the cells to eliminate waste products such a lactic and uric acid from the tissues, increase the body’s absorption of oxygen levels and stimulate the skin, nervous system and muscles. More and more massage therapy is used alongside conventional medicine as an alternative holistic therapy, helping to ease discomfort and enhance general wellbeing. There are many types of massage to try. The fact that it is still being practiced to this day is proof that it is so good for one’s general wellbeing.

What to expect

Hippocrates
Hippocrates
Hippocrates

I offer bespoke treatments in the comfort of your home.

A thorough consultation will be required before your initial treatment and before any subsequent treatments checking that the consultation form details have not changed, making any necessary amendments and signing-off each time before treatment can proceed.

If you suffer with a serious illness it is essential to check with your GP if massage will be an appropriate holistic alternative therapy for you. I would either need to contact your doctor to have confirmation or see a referral letter from them acknowledging that massage would be suitable. When you book an appointment I will check to see if you have any contra- indications to save time.

During your massage your modesty is paramount and your body will be covered other than the areas being massaged. For a full body massage you will be required to wear your underpants. When massaging your back, access to your lower back is necessary so please do not wear any tight clothing. So tights or trousers are best removed for your comfort while pants and pyjama bottoms work well. At all times your chest and genital areas will be covered. To be clear this is a massage and not an adult service.

Everyone is different and it is important we work to find the best pressure to suit you: whether it be firmer or lighter, the aim is to adapt to suit you. Swedish massage is lighter than sports massage. Just for clarification, the areas covered in the massage treatments are discussed prior to treatment and should you have any injury areas these can be avoided. Swedish massage treatments cover only the following body parts; scalp, face, neck, shoulders, back, arms, hands, legs and feet. 

Please allow at least 15 minutes to set up the massage couch and prepare. You will select your massage medium with me whether it be oil, cream or talc. I use Neal’s Yard and Absolute aroma products (Absolute aromas, won the Best Beauty/Bodycare Health food Business Awards in 2016). I believe in the quality and ethics of both these companies. I can also supply their products for you should you wish to purchase any of them.

It has been a pleasure having a massage with Amanda. I suffer from rheumatoid arthritis that makes my body very sensitive. Amanda was very careful that the pressure used helped my condition and was not only pleasurable and relaxing but improved my mobility. I know from experience the importance of a therapeutic massage being executed by a professional, highly trained individual.  Beyond her professionalism, I find that Amanda really cares about each client, their health, their circumstances – mind body and spirit.  She is dedicated and is, simply, wonderful!

Allyson

Dear Amanda, Fabulous massage, got to all my problem areas & destressed them. Wonderful, see you soon.

Clare

I can hardly believe the difference that my full body massage made.  I suffer from CFS and not having to travel was a huge benefit.  Amanda’s approach is extremely professional and I will now be having regular treatments.

Gill

What to expect

Hippocrates

This isn’t just any old massage, this is total indulgence coming to you.

My requirement is that you are ready, the room has enough space for a treatment massage couch and space for me to move around it, the room is warm and phones are turned off, so you can relax and chill out for the duration. I bring everything to ensure that your treatment is special without you needing to go anywhere and having to travel back home afterwards. The idea is that the spa treatment comes to you so that you can relax in the comfort of your home.

Swedish massage can help to boost immunity, encourages lymphatic drainage, improves skin tone and helps to remove dead skin cells. It is believed to be beneficial for the following: anxiety, back ache, depression and lethargy, digestive disorders, headaches and migraine, injury recovery, insomnia, muscle and skin tone, muscular discomfort and knots, pre-menstrual and menopausal issues.

It is always important to get up slowly after a massage and not to rush, drink a glass of water and chill out, which you can do (being in your own home) while I pack up and you don’t have to rush to get dressed to leave a salon as you can stay in your dressing gown for as long as you like! As with any massage you may experience some detox symptoms as your body reacts to the stimulation, as toxins are released for 24 -48 hours. This is quite normal and all part of the body’s healing process. You may feel that your movement has improved and that painful areas are less uncomfortable. You may have a runny nose, feel very sleepy or energised: everyone reacts differently and after each massage you can react in a different way too. It is sensible to avoid alcohol and heavy meals. It is advisable to drink plenty of water.

Treatments and Prices

Here are some popular treatments and combinations.

Mix and match the times so they total 60, 75 or 90 minutes (and no less).

  • Scalp Massage (15mins)
  • Back, neck and shoulders massage (30mins)
  • Face and scalp (30mins)
  • Legs Massage (30mins)
  • Back, neck, shoulder, arms and legs (60mins)
  • Back, neck, shoulder, arms, legs and tummy (60mins)
  • Back massage (30 min) + face and scalp (30 min)
  • Back massage (30 min) + reflexology (30 min)
  • Full Body plus face and scalp (75mins)
  • Full Body plus face and scalp (90mins)

So for example…

Scalp Massage (15mins) + Back, neck, shoulder, arms, legs and tummy (60mins) makes a total of 75mins.

Good to know

I charge for the actual treatment time given (which excludes consultation time, setting-up and clearing away my equipment).  This enables fluidity in the choice of more than one individual treatment.

I bring all equipment and everything necessary to enhance your treatment on a luxurious basis for your complete relaxation and revitalisation.

I make visits within a 15 mile radius of Alton and the minimum charge is for one hour. Evening appointments can be arranged subject to availability.

All first treatments enjoy a 20% discount (excluding corporate events and pamper parties). 

Massage isn’t always suitable for everyone, please read the following lists that may affect your treatment.

Examples of contra-indications that may prevent treatment:
  • Deep vein thrombosis
  • During chemotherapy and radiotherapy
  • Contagious skin disorders i.e. impetigo, herpes simplex, herpes zoster, tinea corporis
  • Cancer
  • Cardiovascular conditions, hypertension, hypotension
  • Diarrhoea and vomiting
  • Haemophilia
  • Medical oedema
  • Osteoporosis
  • Fever
  • Recent operations
  • Psychosis
  • Pregnancy
  • Severe varicose veins
  • Recent head and neck injury
  • Haemorrhage
  • Meningitis
  • Nervous system disorders
  • Undiagnosed lumps or pain
  • On Medication
Examples of contra-indications that may restrict treatment area:
  • Diabetes
  • Epilepsy
  • Varicose veins
  • High/low blood pressure
  • Product allergies
  • Skin disorders, boils, warts, verruca, tinea pedis that can be covered over
  • Drugs and alcohol
  • Cuts and abrasions
  • Bruising
  • Swelling
  • Recent scar tissue
  • Eczema/psoriasis
  • Menstruation
  • Hernia
  • Heavy meal
  • Asthma
  • Sunburn
  • Migraine