Can combining massage and hypnotherapy cure stress?

We put the ultimate massage to the test

We are only just reaping the benefits of hypnotherapy, from how it can reduce anxiety, to phobias like flying and other ailments - the Duchess of Cambridge reportedly used hypnotherapy to cure her morning sickness.

But while it's all well and good looking after your mind, you can't expect to see results if you don't look after your body as well, which is where hypnotherapy massage comes in. Sound confusing? Scroll down for the full explanation, and how it can affect you.

What is a hypnotherapy mind massage?

In a nutshell, it's an experience that aims to relax both body and soul at the same time. Gazelli House in London, who invited us to try their signature Hypnotherapy Mind Massage (created by Life Coach and Hypnotherapist Rachel Coffey), describes it succinctly as a 'simultaneous physical and mental experience that allows you to switch off the chatter of everyday thoughts, inviting the subconscious mind to go on a journey of healing and rejuvenation, let go of anxieties, emotional blocks, and tensions.'

We know the title sounds a little confusing, so let us reassure you, you do get a physical massage, all the while listening to a transcript encouraging you to focus on your mental recovery, through mantras and soft music. Meanwhile, the massage therapist's pressures and movements are choreographed to be in time with the rhythm of the audio.

Can combining massage and hypnotherapy cure stress?

If you're feeling a little bit cynical, then think about this: the mind is intricately linked to your body, and if your mind tenses, so does your body, it's a natural reaction. So if you manage to rid your mind of emotional blocks, then your body will release its own tensions.

An hour and a half doesn't seem like a lot of time to achieve all this, but it certainly worked. The soothing recording does seem a little odd at first, especially if you're one of those people who doesn't like any talking during massages, but you soon forget it as you get into the rhythm of things. The therapist is almost like a dancer, hitting the correct pressure points and synchronising her movements with the transcript beautifully, like lifting your head and massaging your neck just as you are told to breathe out all negativity.

The result? While you'd need to do this regularly to see the full benefits, the massage truly makes you forget your woes for a while at least, and you leave the room feeling that little bit lighter and like you can calmly tackle any challenges that might come your way. Well worth it.

How to book a hypnotherapy mind massage

Hypnotherapy Mind Massage at Gazelli House, £185 for 90mins. Call 020 7581 4355 or email bookings@gazelli.co.uk to book an appointment.