Relaxation massage Most massage treatments will relax you, among other things. With a relaxation massage, relaxing you is the only aim. For this reason, it is one of the most complete and indulgent massages you can have. Definitions vary, but in the UK, a relaxation massage is usually a full-body treatment involving soft music, soft lighting and aromatherapy essential oils. You will have a long, luxurious massage which will use all kinds of massage techniques including long strokes, gentle kneading and rolling of skin and muscle, and perhaps some rhythmic rocking from side to side. It is a passive treatment. You probably won't be stretched or manoeuvred into any yoga-like positions, as you are, for example, in Thai massage. You just lie there and take it. This is the massage to choose if you just want to chill out, and be pampered and spoiled. What is relaxation massage good for? The clue to this is in the title. A good relaxation massage relieves stress and muscle tension and will leave you oozing with a sense of wellbeing. It achieves this because of the general benefits of massage: it improves your circulation and blood flow, so your organs and skin get more oxygen; aiding with lymphatic drainage. Whether it's a full body massage or back massage, this type of therapeutic massage helps to relieve back pain and neck pain breaking up stubborn knots and tight soft tissue. A relaxation massage encourages your body to digest its food, and get rid of its toxins and it will help you to sleep better. A massage will also help soothe muscle soreness and sprains and encourage the skin to heal minor abrasions. It is a natural instinct to rub or cuddle someone to give them comfort; a relaxation massage takes that instinct and runs with it, or rather 'meanders' with it.