At the edge of the small town of Hare Hatch, set in the lush backdrop of the English countryside, lies one of the most luxurious massage parlours in the area. Visiting from out of town, I had heard good reports from friends and wanted to experience the pleasure and relaxation of a visit to the massage parlour.
Entering the premises, I was met with the calming smell of oil and herbs, while soft ambient music enveloped me in a sense of peace. The staff were polite and helpful, guiding me to the small and tranquil massage area. Seeing the dark wooden walls and large massage beds draped in luxurious white sheets, I was instantly put at ease.
Greeted by the massage therapist, I was shown the menu of options. Feeling the need to indulge and pamper myself, I could not resist selecting the special pampering package. The massage therapist then advised me on the various scented oils that she would use during the massage, from the citrus scented to the warm calming lavender.
Nestling down on to the massage bed, I felt my body relax as the therapist started to work her magic. She massaged my feet, legs and buttocks, and then moved up to my back and neck, working her magician’s hands deep in to each muscle group. After a few more minutes, she moved on to my shoulders and arms, applying a light pressure as she stroked and kneaded the areas.
But it was when she moved up onto my face and head that the full effects of the massage were really felt. Using a light pressure her hands worked over my temples and eyes, before moving down to my mouth and chin. My jaw relaxed and I felt as if I had literally melted in to the bed.
As the massage progressed, the therapist changed the oils, introducing lighter scents that tickled my nostrils, heightening the sensations created by her exquisite massage strokes. After what felt like an eternity I heard her announce that the massage was over and that I could move on to the next stage.
Still feeling the effects of relaxation, I rose and followed her in to the shower room. I was instructed to shower off all the oils and then suggested to slip in to one of the complimentary robes and into the lounge area. It was here that I was confronted with a choice of massage options: from aromatherapy to hot stone. After consulting with the therapist, I decided to opt for the hot stone massage, which promised to warm my muscles and release any tension I might have still clinging on from the day.
The hot stone massage was like none I had ever experienced before. On entering I was enveloped in the warmth of the stones and the soothing sounds of water droplets. The therapist manipulated the stones expertly, creating an almost hypnotic state. After almost an hour I was lost in the kinetic pleasure and the feeling of total relaxation this massage offered.
After showering off the excess oil, I was left feeling totally pampered and revitalised. It was with some reluctance that I left the massage parlour. As I walked back to my car, I reflected on the excellent service I had received at the massage parlour. Not only had they provided one of the best massage experiences I had ever had, they had also managed to reinvigorate my spirit ready to face the world again.