London can be a stressful place, no doubt. Londoners work hard and play hard, in the city that never sleeps. But how do you relax in a place that’s always “on”?

At I Love Massage London we believe it’s entirely possible to unwind and relax in London.

And who understands relaxation better than the people who provide it for a living? We asked some of the London Massage therapists how they de-stress. Here’s their advice.

 “It is very stressful and exciting being a massage therapist in London. Looking for parking, lugging my table through the hustle and bustle of the city, and finding my Zen to deliver a great massage can be challenging. When my day is finished, seeing my clients’ smiles makes it all worth it. Once I get home from a long day, all I want to do is run a warm bath with Himalayan eucalyptus bath salts and a relaxing blend oil. This bath helps me unwind and treat my sore muscles. On my days off I enjoy a peaceful walk to Central London. Other things that help me de-stress are going out with friends to restaurants, bars, festivals, concerts, and West End shows. Above all, my best remedy for stress in London – besides a massage – is to check into a spa for a day pass to use the steam room, sauna and whirlpool and unwind from the chaos. This has improved my breathing and melts away my stress.”

Anna, Central London

  “How I unwind: Being outdoors! Especially in the morning, when the city is just starting to wake up. A great thing about London is we get many beautiful parks, so taking a walk or even just sitting outside is really peaceful and grounding for me.”

Nicole, West Kensington

  “When I feel overly stressed or completely tapped out, I like to sit in front of a window or even a park, in a yoga figure 8 position, and take a few deep inhales of vetiver oil (great for clarity and mental calm).

Gabriela, East London

 “I relax by walking through the streets of London. I think it’s one of the best ways to get rid of bad energy. Nice chill out music and of course a glass of Sauvignon Blanc with a friend at a cosy cafe helps a lot too!”

Paolo, Central London

“I start off my days with traditional yogic meditation that allows a space to separate the self from mind and body. Simply put a balance of what serves and what doesn’t serve life. Besides being a seeker in the divine, I spend my leisure time with company of good friends dancing or enjoying healthy foods.

Emil, South West London

 “De-stressing in London can be hard at times since we live in such a fast-paced city. I love to take long walks alone, listen to calming music on my headphones and taking in the scenery of the changing seasons. Being in nature is very therapeutic, and London has a lot of amazing parks. Practicing yoga is another way I de-stress. It lets me focus my energy within and restores the body and the mind. Flexibility and self-awareness make life in London a bit easier.

Jasmine, Kensington

 “I recently signed up for a dancing class. I find it relaxing to try something challenging and new from time to time. I learned about the class from my long-time client’s wife who teaches the class! And because of my massage career in London I can afford it!

Laura, London