We tried the most soothing anti-stress massage ever
The anti-stress massage at Le Petit in Swindon is a must for anyone feeling the weight of the world on their shoulders
Anyone who knows me knows I’m totally loyal to Le Petit Beauty Salon in Swindon. There’s nowhere else I’d go for my manicures and waxing (it’s the friendliest, most welcoming spot ever), so when Le Petit’s owner Rachel invited me in to try their anti-stress massage, I jumped at the chance.

I went there on a dark, drizzly Friday evening, after a day at work that had left me frazzled (but don’t all work days do that?). As soon as I stepped into the treatment room, I felt my shoulders melt down about three inches. It was atmospherically lit, scented with essential oils and just the right temperature to make me feel cosy and relaxed. And that was before the treatment event started.
The anti-stress massage was created by the team at Le Petit, designed for clients who spend long hours at their desk (guilty!), as well as those who hold stress in their shoulders. Once again, that’s me!
This hour-long treat also works on the scalp, face, neck, arms and hands, finishing with a glorious hot stone massage. It was so blissful I had to fight to stay awake so I could report back on how fabulous it was.
I’ve had a fair few massages in my time (I’m a slave to the spa, what can I say?) but rarely has one focused so much on my shoulders. Often they receive a quick light rub before my therapist moves onto my back, but the Anti-Stress Massage at Le Petit focuses on the shoulders, kneading and caressing them until they felt feather-light and tension free. Each side got equal attention, with Rachel working on my left and right until they felt perfectly balanced.
The ultra-gentle but supremely-soothing face massage was a highlight for me too. Rachel performed the most delicate taps and sweeps on my brow bones and cheeks that somehow made all my cares melt away. She explained that each move is performed three times. Once to introduce to the move, twice to get you comfortable with it, and the third to create a deep sense of relaxation. I’d never have guessed that ultra-light taps on my face could send me into a zen state, but they really did work like magic.
The treatment closed with a sublime hot stone massage on my back. Hot stone massages are my favourite type. Those warm pebbles feel like heaven smoothed up and down my back, taking me just to the edge of sleep, where I feel blissfully calm and deeply cared for.
I floated out of the salon on a cloud of dreamy comfort, feeling cocooned, safe and calmer than I have in months and next time I feel stress getting on top of me, this will be the first treatment I turn to.
Book Le Petit’s Anti-Stress Massage, from £52
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