How to Decide Which Massage is Best For You

As a wellness hotel, The Chilworth Hotel Paddington takes the mental and physical health of its patrons very seriously. We have a fitness suite and daily yoga sessions available to keep our guests, as well as nourishing fresh food. The Chilworth Hotel Paddington Spa features a steam room and jacuzzi, as well as an extensive menu of treatments including facials and massages.

If you can’t decide which massage is best for you, we’ve put together a helpful guide to help you choose. We encourage teaming your massage with the Chilworth London afternoon tea for a truly luxurious experience in London.

If you are looking to relax… Aromatherapy or Swedish massage

A Swedish massage is a gentle massage which is delivered with soft, kneading strokes – it is the classic full-body massage which will relax your whole body. An aromatherapy massage uses very similar techniques to a Swedish massage, however, your massage therapist (or aromatherapist) will also apply aromatic essential oils. You will be able to inform your massage therapist how much pressure you would like.

If you are seeking a mindful experience… Aromatherapy

As a holistic healing treatment, an aromatherapy massage at The Chilworth Spa can improve your general wellbeing, as well as help treat specific health concerns. The essential oils are extracted from plants and can be applied topically during an aromatherapy massage. Common oils used in the practice include chamomile, lavender, eucalyptus and lemon.

Aromatherapy can help to ease the symptoms of many different conditions including depression, anxiety, headaches, nausea, insomnia and inflammation.

If this will be your first massage… Swedish Massage

If you have never had a massage you might feel nervous about what to expect, and daunted about being covered by only a modesty towel. Put your worries aside, the therapists at your accommodation in Paddington, London spend all day with nude skin! You can request a female or male massage therapist depending on your personal preference, and you can ask your therapist to be gentler during the treatment at any point if you are uncomfortable. If you are travelling with a companion, you can arrange to have a massage at the same time at The Chilworth Hotel Spa which might make you feel more comfortable. If you want a full body massage, opt for a gentle Swedish massage which will loosen your muscles and put you at ease in no time.

If you are a professional athlete or are training… Sports Massage 

Typically a sports massage is most suited to professional athletes or those with vigorous sporting lifestyles, perhaps someone training for a triathlon or marathon. A sports massage is also suitable for those who experience regular aches and pains after a workout – perhaps if you overdid it at the gym in your accommodation in London. A sports massage can both repair an injury caused by sports and also strengthen the muscles to prevent future damage. This type of massage combines compression, stretching, friction and toning. Your therapist will also use trigger point response techniques inspired by acupressure and Swedish massage.

If you want to rebalance yourself… Reflexology

Reflexology is a remarkable practice of applying pressure to specific reflex points on the feet. Your reflexologist will use a chart which shows how each part of your foot connects to a different organ or part of your body. Reflexology treats and restores the flow of energy to specific areas of your body, by targeting the corresponding part of the foot.

If you experience chronic muscle issues or an injury… Deep Tissue Massage 

During a deep tissue massage, your therapist will apply much more pressure compared to a Swedish or aromatherapy massage. The technique uses slow strokes and your therapist will apply pressure deeply with their fingers. This relieves tension from the deepest layers of your muscles and connective tissues. This massage is ideal for those who suffer from chronic muscle pain or have experienced an injury, sports-related or otherwise.

If you want to cleanse your body of toxins… Lymphatic Drainage Massage

A lymphatic drainage massage uses light rhythmic movements to promote lymphatic activity. The lymphatic system is part of your vascular system and plays an important part in a healthy immune system. This highly specialised massage will drain out toxins whilst giving your energy levels and immunity a boost.

A lymphatic drainage massage will also alleviate issues caused by a sedentary lifestyle – so use this one as an antidote to out that leisurely afternoon sitting down to afternoon tea at The Chilworth

If your feet are in need of some TLC… Deeply Nourishing Feet Treatment

If you’ve been traipsing around the museums and attractions of London, spare a thought for your feet and book yourself in for a deeply nourishing feet treatment at The Chilworth Hotel Paddington Spa! Your massage therapist will knead any aches and pains out of these strong muscles and apply soothing lotions and creams to make your feet feel soft and supple.

If you are suffering from a cold… Herbal Ball Massage

A herbal ball massage uses heat therapy with massage techniques. Your therapist will press warm balls of mixed herbs against your skin, targeting your problem areas as discussed prior to the treatment. Gentle and firmer pressures will be alternated to increase blood flow and alleviate muscular pain. The herbs will also give your airways and sinuses a clear-out, so if you’ve coincided a stay at your accommodation in Paddington, London with a seasonal cold, pick this treatment.

If you are pregnant… Pregnancy Ritual

Last but certainly not least, if you are a mum-to-be then the hotel’s spa has a pregnancy ritual which is safe for expectant women. The strokes are gentle, and based on Swedish massage techniques. The ritual enhances the function of muscles and joints as well as improving circulation and general body tone. The ritual also relieves mental and physical fatigue.

We recommend booking in for afternoon tea afterwards, after all – you’re eating for two!