Why it works … Comfort Touch Back Massage

Turning your massage into a complete sensory experience that’s tailored to the individual, Hilton at St George’s Park talks about the [Comfort Zone] massage that’s a favourite amongst men and women!

What exactly is the Comfort Touch Back Massage?

It starts with a welcome touch which includes placing a lavender pillow over the client’s eyes followed by a foot cleanse.  Then we turn the client onto their front and do a sensory engagement to commence the massage, where a few drops of oil are placed on their back and the therapist asks the client to take deep breaths while they focus on pressure points down the body.  We then go into the full massage, which uses very slow techniques, so it is incredibly relaxing.  It includes 15 minutes of set massage, and then we work on areas that the client has cited as problematic in their consultation form.  At the end of the treatment we tie a ribbon with a few drops of the oil used in the massage on it, onto the client’s wrist, and massage the feet before taking them to the relaxation lounge where we have a tea that also matches the oil used in the massage.

Where does it come from?

It is a [Comfort Zone] treatment, which is an Italian product house which focuses on a synergy between nature and science.  They are results driven and use natural products, but they have the science to back them up.

What is it supposed to do?

It is all about deep, deep relaxation.  A lot of people feel almost punch drunk afterwards and stumble to the relaxation lounge!

Is there anything you do to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment?

It’s a 45-minute treatment, but we turn it into a whole sensory journey and allow up to 90 minutes for the whole thing.  We start by asking the client to choose from one of four oils: Oriental, Mediterranean, Indian or Arabian.  You are then greeted with an Oshibori towel applied to the hands, which is there to cleanse negative energy.    You then have a full consultation, and your room and locker are prepared by spraying the robe and slippers with the scent of your chosen oil so that when you open your locker you can smell it!  The treatment room is also lit with candles and scented with the chosen oil, so the experience is completely tailored to the individual.  The client then lies on the heated couch and the experience begins.

Is there anything you recommend clients to do pre or post-treatment to get the most out of it?

If you are coming for a spa day, the ideal is to spend a little time unwinding by the pool first, and afterwards take some time to come round properly in the relaxation area.

Is there anyone you particularly recommend the treatment for?

The goal is total relaxation, which is really for anybody.  Mums who want a bit of ‘me-time’ always enjoy it, and we have a lot of male clients who love this treatment as well.

Is there anyone who shouldn’t have this treatment and why?

It isn’t suitable for pregnant women, and anyone with epilepsy, heart conditions and high blood pressure should check with a doctor before having the treatment.  As long as any conditions are under control however, it should be fine.  All the products are hypoallergenic, but if you have any particular allergies it’s best to inform the therapist.