Get a massage in Gloucestershire

Discover a world of indulgent massages from across the globe, right here in Gloucestershire.

There’s nothing more decadently glamorous than hopping on an aeroplane bound for a five-star spa with top notch massages on tap, but then there’s the flight delays and jet-lag to contend with, the fuel-charges and lost baggage, not to mention the dent an international jaunt like this leaves on your bank balance – it’s enough to give you knots just thinking about it.

But for top-to-toe pampering with an international flavour you don’t need to leave the county, let alone the country, as Gloucestershire offers a prime selection of global treatments without the need for a passport. To make your trip to tranquility even easier, we’ve picked out some of the world’s most popular massages, which are all available on your doorstep.

Swedish massage is a classic on the menus of most spas and it is possibly one of the most relaxing treatments you can indulge in. For novices to the myriad of massage choices, it involves lying face down on a bed or table whilst partially naked (save for a towel and underpants) as a masseuse uses long smooth strokes with lotion or oils across the whole body. An hour later, if you are still awake, you will find your skin soft and supple and your mind calm and invigorated. Swedish massages are available at a number of Gloucestershire spas and beauty salons, including the Aromatherapy Beauty Clinic, Running Earth and Touch Bodyworks, a one-hour session will set you back around £35.

Thai massage has become as popular as green curry in Britain today, but the health benefits of this treatment far outweighs a takeaway. It is a dry massage using kneading, pulling and stretching motions while you lie on a mat at floor level. It is particularly good for relieving tense muscles and stiff joints, as well as improving flexibility. If you feel self-conscious being undressed in front of a therapist Thai massage is a perfect solution, as you are either provided with a huge pair of pyjamas or you can wear your own loose clothing. Choose between soft, medium or hard intensities – opt for the latter if you have a high tolerance to pain – and expect to hear a few satisfying cracks either way. Thai massage is offered at Prestberries and Bodyharmonics and costs around £40 per session.

Indian head massage is an Ayurvedic treatment from southern India that has become extremely popular as it can be performed on anyone – including pregnant women. The stimulating scalp, neck and shoulders massage can be conducted almost anywhere and you can choose to have it performed with or without oils. While fans of Indian head massage claim that it can offer improved skin tone and hair growth, enhanced concentration and the unlocking of trapped energy – one thing you can guarantee is that it is one of the most pleasant massages you can experience and a 30-40 minute treatment will leave you feeling rejuvenated and re-energised. Gloucester Natural Therapies Clinic, Aura of Beauty and Stroud Natural Health Clinic all offer Indian head massages, which will cost you around £30 a time.

Lomi lomi massages are a Hawaiian speciality which translated means 'rub rub'. The invigorating treatment works on the principle that the body has a memory and needs help to 'forget' old patterns and behaviours that might be causing stress or tension. Using oils, the therapist uses deep and gentle continuous flowing strokes across the whole body with his or her fingers, thumbs, palms, arms and elbows, while you relax on a bed. This slow repeated movement increases blood flow and encourages toxins to be expelled – a great boost to any detox. Lomi lomi is Le Spa's signature treatment, costing £55 for a 75 minute treatment.

Chinese massage or Tui Na forms a core part of traditional Chinese medicine and its practice in Asia dates back more than 2000 years. It can be a great alternative for the relief of pain and the treatment of some injuries to the neck, shoulders and back. It is also an excellent way to relax with the emphasis on improving one's qi (or energy) to promote healing. You either sit on a chair or lie on a couch, fully-clothed, while the therapist asks you about your health before performing a series of pushing, stretching and kneading movements on the muscles and acupressure points. Bodyharmonics offer Tui Na massage for £25 for 30 minutes.

With so many worldly options on offer, forget about the stresses of reserving a spot of winter sun and book yourself in for an exotic treat closer to home.

Michelle Byrne
1 February 2008