Full Body Massage: What Is It and What to Expect
When it comes to self-care, there’s nothing better than a massage from a professional spa therapist. Whether you’re experiencing sore muscles, chronic stress, or simply want to treat yourself to some VIP pampering, you can’t go wrong with a full body massage.
One of the most therapeutic and revitalizing ways to reset your body and mind is through a full body massage. Whether you’re searching for a full body massage Atlanta, Miami, or even looking for couples full body massage near you, this guide covers everything, from prices to techniques, from machines to massage mats.
But what is a full body massage, and what can you expect when you book yourself in for this treatment for the first time? In this comprehensive guide, we’re going to go over everything you need to know about a full body massage: what it includes, how to prepare, and what to expect during your treatment. Let’s take a look!
What is a full body massage?
A full body massage is a form of massage therapy that involves massaging (almost!) the entire body, using professional techniques that can help to relieve muscle soreness, promote relaxation, and reduce stress.
A full body massage will typically include the back, arms, head, shoulders, legs, calf and foot massage. Some providers may also offer a glute massage as part of your full-body treatment, that’s if you ask if full body massage include glutes? But then, you’ll be able to discuss this with your therapist beforehand if you’d rather opt out.
What are the benefits of a full body massage?
The advantages of full body massage go beyond simple relaxation. Here are the most common benefits:
Reduce stress
One of the most common reasons people book a full body massage is to reduce any ongoing stress and anxiety. The combination of gentle massage strokes and deeply relaxing music can help you to relax, ease any physical tension, and help to improve your mental wellbeing.
If you're searching for “full body massages near me,” consider trying Spa Theory’s in-home experience. Either you're booking a full body massage in Atlanta or exploring massage therapy in Houston TX, relaxation is just a doorstep away.
Relieve muscle injury
There’s a reason you often see footballers and other sports stars getting an after-match massage on the pitch; massaging the muscles can help to reduce the risk of injury, relieve tension and improve muscle recovery after exertion. If you're a keen runner, gym-goer, or play sports regularly, a regular full body massage can keep you in tip-top form all year round. For men, a full body massage for men can target muscle fatigue and post-workout tightness.
Improve sleep
Many Americans report trouble sleeping; in fact, the CDC reports that 1 in 3 Americans don't get enough regular sleep. Chronic lack of sleep can cause serious problems for both your physical and mental wellbeing, but regular full body massages can help; by relaxing the mind and relieving stress-related physical tension, you'll be in a better position to achieve a full night's rest. At Spa Theory, we even offer a dedicated Sleep Massage for those who struggle with insomnia or sleep troubles.
Better blood circulation
According to a research by the National Library of Medicine research, a significant difference was observed between massage and rest condition on a fatigued muscle. A massage helps to increase the oxygenation of cells through improved blood flow, so you’ll enjoy better circulation and increased flexibility after a full body treatment. Improved circulation has a knock-on effect on your overall wellbeing; you'll notice improved concentration and even a more glowing complexion.
Full Body Massage Spa at Home – The Spa Theory Way
Unlike traditional spas or spa chains like Massage Envy, Spa Theory brings a certified massage therapist directly to your location. Whether you’re looking for an Atlanta full body massage or relaxing in a suite in Miami, our mobile massage therapists near you deliver luxury wherever you are.
Our full body massage services are ideal for:
Athletes needing muscle recovery
Busy professionals with tight schedules
Moms seeking stress relief
Couples wanting a romantic in-home massage experience
What to expect from a Full Body Massage?
So, what can you expect from a full body massage? Here’s a breakdown of what to expect before, during and after your massage therapy:
Before your massage
While nothing replaces the human touch of a licensed therapist, full body massage chairs, massage mats for full body, and full body massager machines are excellent complements to professional treatments. For daily relief, tools like a massage chair full body, heated full body massage mat, or full body massager with heat can help prolong the benefits of your in-person session.
At Spa Theory, we offer mobile spa services. This means we come directly to your home, hotel, or any private location of your choosing. Your licensed therapist will bring everything needed for your session, including a massage table, massage oil for full body massage, and soothing supplies. You’ll just need to provide two flat sheets and a pillowcase to ensure proper draping and comfort throughout the massage. In some sessions, Spa Theory therapists may also use massage full body mats for added support and relaxation.
Before beginning, you'll need to remove any restrictive clothing so that your therapist can perform the massage effectively - your therapist will give you privacy to undress and position yourself on the massage table. If you're wearing a bra and don't wish to remove it, you can simply unclip the bra at its fastening so the therapist can massage your back without any constraints.
During your massage
During your massage, your therapist will typically begin by massaging your back and shoulders; for this, you'll need to be laying down comfortably on your stomach. Then, the therapist will massage your legs and feet, (and your glutes if this has been agreed to) before proceeding to massage the arms. You’ll then switch to lying on your back, and your therapist will perform a head massage.
You can create your own at-home spa ambiance by playing relaxing music, safely lighting some aromatic candles, and allowing yourself to drift off into a relaxed state. A massage is about the mind just as much as it is about the body, so it's important to be able to detach from any ongoing worries, problems, or stress.
Don't forget that a massage is an intimate procedure, so mutual confidence and trust is important, as is respecting a mutual code of conduct during the treatment. Your therapist will always ensure that you feel comfortable during the massage, and likewise, clients should always respect personal boundaries with their therapist. This means no inappropriate touching, undressing in front of the client, or making inappropriate remarks during the treatment. Also be aware of any noises, even if the massage does feel great, it's best to keep any moaning sounds to a minimum!
Interestingly, some people prefer an Asian full body massage and often ask, “What should I expect from a Chinese full body massage?” While Spa Theory does not offer traditional Chinese massage techniques, these styles are typically known for using acupressure and meridian-based therapy. Instead, we specialize in fully customizable sessions, including Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, prenatal, and more, which are designed to suit your individual comfort and wellness needs.
After your massage
Once your massage is complete, you might feel slightly lightheaded; this is a normal reaction to the massage, and should ease off after a few minutes. Post-treatment, we'd recommend giving yourself time to relax, whether it be through reading a book or relaxing in front of the TV. You should also try to get to bed early, too - you'll wake up feeling fully rejuvenated and refreshed in the morning.
How to prepare for a full body massage
If you're booking a full body massage for the first time, here's how we recommend prepping for the event:
Take a shower
We'd always recommend taking a quick shower before your massage therapist arrives. Not only will this make the experience better for your therapist, but you'll also feel more confident during the treatment. Showering also energizes the muscles by increasing blood flow, so this will help enhance the effects of the massage itself.
Keep hydrated
Make sure to stay hydrated before and after your massage - this will ensure that your muscles remain relaxed and supple, as well as helping you feel energized. Try sipping some water or herbal tea for additional relaxation benefits.
Avoid stubble
Prickly stubble on the body can be irritating and even painful for your massage therapist. For ultimate massage etiquette, shave off any existing stubble before your appointment (or let it grow out beforehand if you don't plan on shaving again soon.) Your massage therapist will appreciate it!
How Much Does a Full Body Massage Cost?
One of the most common questions people ask is, “How much does a full body massage cost?” The massage full body price can range depending on location, session length, and massage type. At Spa Theory, we offer clear pricing, membership discounts, and even couples massage packages. Whether you want a full body massage in Miami FL, full body massage Memphis TN, or full body massage Brooklyn, you're guaranteed spa-level care at competitive rates.
Spa Theory brings luxury wellness to you, with licensed massage therapists providing premium services using professional massage tables, soothing supplies, and massage oil for full body massage. All you need to provide are two flat sheets and a pillowcase for proper draping during your session.
Here’s a breakdown of our full body massage prices:
| Service | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Swedish Massage | 60 Minutes | $129 |
| 90 Minutes | $179 | |
| Deep Tissue Massage | 60 Minutes | $129 |
| 90 Minutes | $179 | |
| Sleep Massage | 60 Minutes | $129 |
| 90 Minutes | $179 | |
| Sports Massage | 60 Minutes | $129 |
| 90 Minutes | $179 | |
| Hot Stone Massage | 60 Minutes | $150 |
| 90 Minutes | $199 | |
| Prenatal Massage (Must be 13+ weeks pregnant) |
60 Minutes | $150 |
| 90 Minutes | $185 | |
| Couples Massage | 60 Minutes | $259 |
| 90 Minutes | $359 | |
| Back-to-Back Massages (One therapist, two clients) |
2x60 Minutes | $259 |
| 2x90 Minutes | $359 |
Full Body Massage Types to Explore
Here are popular variations of full body massages:
Swedish Full Body Massage – Light, relaxing strokes ideal for beginners.
Deep Tissue Massage – Targets chronic tension and knots.
Thai Full Body Massage – Involves passive stretching.
Lymphatic Drainage Full Body Massage – Helps reduce swelling and detoxify.
Full Body Exfoliation and Massage – Combines body scrub and massage in one.
Mobile Massage Services in Atlanta
If you want to try out your first full body massage, let Spa Theory come to you! We can provide a mobile massage in Atlanta at any private residence, so you don't need to commute to the salon. We only work with licensed and trusted massage therapists, so you're sure to be in great hands - literally!
Full Body Massage Therapy for Muscle Injuries
Massage therapy for injured muscles isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. A recent study shows that 95% of people believe in the effectiveness of massage therapy for reducing pain and improving overall health and wellness, but timing and technique matter significantly for optimal recovery outcomes.
Is massage good for torn muscles? The answer depends on several critical factors: the severity of your injury, the timing of massage intervention, and the specific massage techniques employed. Understanding these nuances can mean the difference between accelerated healing and potential setback in your recovery journey.
How Soon to Massage After Muscle Strain
Wait 48-72 hours after acute muscle strain before applying direct massage to the injured area. During this initial inflammatory phase, your body is naturally sending healing resources to the damaged tissue. Premature massage can disrupt this crucial process and potentially worsen swelling.
Massage for pulled muscle recovery timeline:
0-48 hours: Avoid direct massage; focus on RICE protocol
48-72 hours: Light, indirect massage around the injury site
3-7 days: Gentle therapeutic massage with professional guidance
1-2 weeks: Progressive massage intensity based on healing response
Does Massage Help Pulled Muscles?
Current massage therapy research from 2024 demonstrates that massage is a clinically-oriented healthcare option used alongside standard medical care to help manage various symptoms. For pulled muscles specifically, massage provides multiple therapeutic benefits when applied correctly.
Proven Benefits of Massage for Muscle Injuries:
Enhanced circulation delivering oxygen and nutrients to damaged tissue
Reduced muscle tension and spasm around injury site
Improved lymphatic drainage reducing swelling
Pain reduction through endorphin release
Restored range of motion and flexibility
Is it bad to massage a pulled muscle?
Only when performed too early or with excessive pressure. Professional injury massage therapy focuses on gentle, targeted techniques that support rather than hinder the natural healing process.
When you Should NOT get Deep Tissue Massage
Active inflammation or acute injury phase
Open wounds or surgical sites
Blood clots or circulation disorders
Uncontrolled high blood pressure
Certain medications affecting blood clotting
Massage After Surgery
Can you have a massage after surgery? Yes, but timing and technique are crucial for safe, effective recovery. Post-surgical massage offers unique benefits beyond simple relaxation.
How Long Should You Wait to Get a Massage After Surgery?
General timeline for massage after operation:
Minor outpatient procedures: 1-2 weeks with physician clearance
Major surgery: 4-6 weeks minimum, longer for complex procedures
Orthopedic surgery: 6-8 weeks, based on healing progression
Cosmetic surgery: Follow surgeon's specific guidelines (typically 2-4 weeks)
Always consult your physician before scheduling post-surgery massage to ensure no contraindications exist for your specific procedure and current healing status.
What Type of Massage is Good After Surgery?
Lymphatic drainage massage stands as the gold standard for early post-surgical recovery. This specialized technique differs significantly from regular massage therapy, with specific contraindications for patients with conditions like hyperthyroidism, acute inflammation, malignant tumors, DVT, and major heart problems.
Recommended post-surgery massage types:
Lymphatic drainage: Reduces swelling and promotes healing
Gentle Swedish massage: Improves circulation without deep pressure
Scar tissue massage: Helps minimize adhesions and improve mobility
Myofascial release: Addresses tissue restrictions from immobilization
Beyond localized treatment, full-body massage provides systemic benefits crucial for comprehensive recovery. Recent 2024 research on percussive massage therapy indicates significant potential for home-based treatment of musculoskeletal concerns, though more evidence-based research is needed.
Six Critical Ways Massage Accelerates Recovery
1. Comprehensive Pain Reduction Throughout the Body: Massage doesn't just reduce pain locally—it creates systemic pain relief through parasympathetic nervous system activation. This process triggers endorphin production, serotonin release, and oxytocin synthesis, creating whole-body wellness that supports faster healing.
2. Enhanced Proprioception and Body Awareness: Severe injuries often disrupt the body's spatial awareness system. Regular massage therapy restores proprioceptive function, rebuilding confidence in movement and preventing compensatory injury patterns that can delay recovery.
3. Correction of Altered Body Mechanics: When you favor one side due to injury, your entire musculoskeletal system adapts to these compensatory patterns. Full-body massage identifies and corrects these imbalances before they become chronic problems requiring extensive rehabilitation.
4. Improved Neuromuscular Coordination: Injury disrupts the neural pathways between brain and muscle. Therapeutic massage helps restore these connections, improving coordination and preventing future injury through better movement patterns.
5. Enhanced Circulation and Healing: Massage increases blood perfusion not just locally, but throughout the entire circulatory system. This means improved healing resources reach your injury site more effectively, regardless of where you receive massage treatment.
6. Stress Reduction for Optimal Healing Environment: Psychological stress demonstrably delays healing processes. Massage reduces cortisol levels while promoting better sleep quality—two essential factors for optimal tissue repair and recovery.
FAQs
Can I Get a Deep Tissue Massage After a C-Section?
Not recommended during initial recovery period. C-section recovery typically requires 6-8 weeks before considering deep tissue massage. Direct massage over recent surgical sites should be avoided until fully healed. Focus instead on gentle lymphatic drainage and upper body massage with physician approval.
Is Deep Tissue Massage Good for Recovery?
Yes, when properly timed. Deep tissue massage excels at addressing chronic muscle tension, fascial restrictions, and scar tissue formation that can develop during extended recovery periods. However, it's contraindicated during acute injury phases and early post-surgical healing.
What areas are massaged in a full body massage?
A full body massage typically includes the back, neck, shoulders, arms, hands, legs, feet, and sometimes glutes and scalp.
Do I need to be completely nude?
Clients undress to their comfort level. While full body naked massage or nude massage full body searches are common online, Spa Theory adheres to professional standards with full draping and client safety as a top priority.
What is the etiquette during a massage?
Respect your therapist’s space. Avoid inappropriate comments or actions. A massage is a therapeutic—not sexual—experience.
Can you get a full body massage while breastfeeding?
Yes, but inform your therapist so they can avoid certain pressure points and use safe oils.