What to expect at your first Swedish massage?

Swedish massage is a gentle form of massage, which is great for beginners who are enjoying their first time at a spa. During the appointment, the massage therapist will do a combination of kneading, rolling, vibration, percussive, and tapping movements.


How do I prepare for my first Swedish massage?

Preparing yourself to best enjoy your massage
  1. Stay Hydrated. ...
  2. Eat Lightly. ...
  3. Take a Hot Shower. ...
  4. Dress Comfortably. ...
  5. Arrive in Advance. ...
  6. Communicate your Needs. ...
  7. Relax during the massage.


What happens during a Swedish massage?

Swedish massage involves long, kneading strokes combined with rhythmic tapping strokes and movement of the joints. This type of massage targets the uppermost layer of muscles and aims to relieve muscle tension.


What do I tip for a 60 minute Swedish massage?

In general, the 20% rule applies to tipping your massage therapist. So, if you're wondering how much to tip for a $100 massage, you'd want to tip $20. If you're considering how much to tip for a 60-minute massage (that costs $100) – you'd still tip $20. However, generosity is generally very appreciated.

What does a Swedish massage feel like?

Swedish massage involves long strokes using light-to-firm pressure. This style generally provides a more relaxing experience, but the pressure may not be enough for some people. In contrast, deep tissue massage applies much more pressure to release tension deep within the muscles and fascia.


Swedish Massage: What to Expect



What can you not do after a Swedish massage?

We have listed ten (10) things that you should not do after a massage.
  • Not Drinking Enough Water. ...
  • Take A Shower Immediately. ...
  • Taking Hot Shower. ...
  • Eating A Large Meal. ...
  • Drinking Coffee. ...
  • Drinking Alcohol. ...
  • Doing Strenuous Exercise or Activities. ...
  • Stressing Yourself Out.


Who should not get a Swedish massage?

Here are the conditions that fall into these category;
  • Fever. Anytime you have a fever, whether from a cold, the flu or some other infection, you should not get a massage. ...
  • Contagious Diseases. ...
  • Blood Clots. ...
  • Pregnancy. ...
  • Kidney Conditions or Liver Conditions. ...
  • Cancer. ...
  • Inflammation. ...
  • Uncontrolled Hypertension.


Should you shower before a Swedish massage?

Take a warm shower

First, the warm water will begin allowing your mind and body to relax making it more open to receiving massage. By cleaning your body prior to a massage, you can also mitigate some personal hygiene insecurities, if you have any, plus it is greatly appreciated by your massage therapist.


What should you not do during a massage?

What NOT to Say / Do with Your Massage Therapist
  • Ask your massage therapist to go see a movie / come to your house / etc. ...
  • Excessive noises. ...
  • Comment on our looks/attractiveness. ...
  • Poke your head out of the room to let us know you're ready. ...
  • Start undressing while we are still in the room. ...
  • Touch us.


Should you shower after a Swedish massage?

A warm shower after a massage can be wonderfully soothing. Since massage oils and lotions are meant to do most of their work during the massage, not after it, you don't have to skip the shower for fear of washing away skin-friendly oils.

What do you wear when you get a massage?

You don't have to wear anything out of the ordinary, whatever is comfortable for you. Some people prefer to wear a sweatsuit to be comfortable and others come in their business suit and heels. Your massage therapist has no preference so whatever you prefer is perfectly fine.


Should you eat before a Swedish massage?

It's better to have a light snack an hour before the session. Never go to the session on an empty stomach as massage stimulates the body's digestive system due to which you might feel hungry after the session. Also, the relaxing effect of massage lowers the blood sugar level.

How long does a full body Swedish massage take?

A typical Swedish or aromatherapy massage usually lasts between 40 minutes for a shorter back neck and shoulders version and 90 minutes for the whole body, including the back, arms and legs.

What do you wear for a full body Swedish massage?

While some people have no problem being completely naked under the sheet, others may opt to keep on their underwear or wear a swimsuit. If you would like to keep some of your clothes on, wear loose clothing so you can still benefit from the body massage.


What is the 1st rule of massage therapy?

First do no harm – to yourself!

What type of massage is best for first time?

Swedish Massage

A Swedish massage is perhaps the most well-known type of massage, ideal for a first-time experience. The Swedish massage technique involves using long strokes, kneading, and gliding with light to firm pressure to ensure total body relaxation.

Do I wear a bra when getting a massage?

You'll want to strip down to just your undies. Take off your bra—it'll get in the way of the back massage and who can relax with underwire poking you anyway? Also, if it's just an upper body massage, you can leave your socks on, otherwise, slip them off so the therapist can work on your soles.


How do I prepare for my first massage?

Put your mind at ease beforehand so that you can fully enjoy your massage in the moment.
  1. Undressing Is Optional, But Normal. ...
  2. Hydration Makes The Massage Better. ...
  3. Plan Your Workout Beforehand. ...
  4. Pregame With A Shower. ...
  5. Breathe Like You're Meditating – It Enhances The Experience. ...
  6. Don't Be Afraid To Ask For What You Want.


Is it rude to fall asleep during a massage?

A therapist is still able to perform a high quality massage even if their client is asleep. It's not rude, nor does it insult them in anyway. In fact, sleeping through a massage is a compliment to the therapist. Falling asleep tells them you are relaxed and comfortable and enjoying the time on their table.

How much do you tip for a Swedish massage?

We spoke to two etiquette experts, who suggested leaving a 15% to 20% tip, if you're able. Twenty percent is generous for the massage therapist and easy on the brain, which may be feeling more relaxed than ever after a massage. The math is straightforward. To find 20%, start by finding 10%, then double that amount.


Does Swedish massage include stomach?

A traditional Swedish massage involves the whole body. You will begin on either your back or your stomach and flip over at the halfway point. If you have an area of particular concern, such as a tight neck, you can ask your therapist to spend more time in this area.

Do they massage your face during a Swedish massage?

The head will now be moved from side to side to ensure movement and loosen up the muscles that are present in the neck. The neck and shoulders will be massaged. The therapist will also address pressure points on the scalp and face.

How do I not be awkward during a massage?

Feel Awkward About Massage?
  1. Be clean. ...
  2. If you have long hair, put it in a ponytail. ...
  3. Talk. ...
  4. Get to the appointment a few minutes early. ...
  5. Don't expect the unexpected. ...
  6. Expect to leave a tip if you liked the service. ...
  7. Finally, tell your friends if you find a place and/or therapist you really like.


What is Swedish massage best for?

Swedish massage may help reduce symptoms of depression, stress, and anxiety. Some of the symptoms that could be managed by massage therapy include back pains, headaches, muscle issues and other chronic pains. Massages are also associated with boosting immunity.

What should you do immediately after a massage?

So, if you missed your massage therapist's little chat, here's a quick recap of what you should be doing post-massage.
  1. DRINK WATER. Massage increases your blood circulation and hydrates your muscle tissues. ...
  2. STRETCH. ...
  3. EAT. ...
  4. REST. ...
  5. HAVE A BATH. ...
  6. WELCOME ANY EMOTIONS. ...
  7. PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR BODY'S REACTION. ...
  8. URINATE.