A full body massage is one of the most complete forms of massage therapy and is designed to support overall wellness by addressing the body as a connected system rather than isolated problem areas. While many people think of massage as a luxury, a full body massage is widely recognized as a therapeutic treatment that plays an important role in maintaining overall health and long‑term self‑care routines.
At Step Above Massage, a full body massage is approached with intention, structure, and professional care. Each session is performed by a licensed therapist and based on your comfort level, pressure preference, and physical condition. The goal is to create a balanced experience that supports the body and mind together, promoting mind‑body health, relaxation, and functional movement.
What Is a Full Body Massage and What Does It Include?
A full body massage is a structured massage therapy session that works on nearly the entire body during one appointment. Rather than focusing on only one area, this approach allows the therapist to address muscle groups from head to toe in a coordinated way, helping the body release muscle fatigue, tension, and stiffness while supporting natural movement patterns.
Areas Typically Included in a Full Body Massage
A standard full body massage generally includes work on the:
- Back and lower back
- Neck and shoulders
- Arms, hands, and wrists
- Legs, calves, and feet
- Hips and glutes (only with consent and proper draping)
- Scalp or head (optional)
Working these areas together helps improve blood circulation, supports muscle recovery, and encourages balanced movement across joints, which is especially important for people dealing with joint diseases, posture issues, or repetitive strain.
Techniques Used During a Full Body Massage
During a full body massage, therapists use a combination of professional techniques depending on the massage style selected. Common techniques include:
- Effleurage – long, flowing strokes used to warm the muscles and promote relaxation
- Kneading (petrissage) – rhythmic compression that helps reduce tension and stiffness
- Targeted pressure and compression for areas of tightness
- Gentle acupressure when appropriate
Massage oil or lotion is applied to reduce friction and allow smooth movement across the skin. Many sessions also include essential oils, especially when aromatherapy is added, to enhance relaxation and sensory comfort.
Full Body Massage as a Therapeutic Treatment
A full body massage is often used as a therapeutic treatment within a broader self‑care plan. By working through multiple muscle groups in one session, the massage supports:
- Better muscle function
- Improved flexibility and mobility
- Release of muscle stiffness and tight connective tissue
- Support for pain prevention related to overuse or imbalance
Because massage improves blood circulation and helps increase oxygenation of cells, it also plays a role in supporting the body’s natural recovery processes. Many clients include full body massage as part of a regular massage routine to maintain physical balance and comfort over time.
Types of Full Body Massage Available
Full body massage can be delivered through different massage styles depending on your needs, comfort level, and goals. At Step Above Massage, clients can choose from several professional options.
Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is one of the most common full body massage styles and is often chosen for deep relaxation. It uses light to medium pressure, flowing strokes, and gentle kneading techniques. This style is ideal if you are new to massage therapy or prefer a calming experience that supports mental wellbeing, emotional balance, and relaxation.
Deep Tissue Massage
A deep tissue massage is also offered as a full body massage when deeper pressure is appropriate. This style works into deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue and is commonly selected by clients dealing with chronic pain, restricted movement, or long‑standing muscle tightness. While the pressure is firmer, the session still follows a full body structure to support balanced recovery.
Specialized Full Body Massage Options
Depending on availability and location, full body massage sessions may also include:
- Sports massage for muscle fatigue and activity‑related tension
- Prenatal massage (after the first trimester) adapted for pregnancy comfort and safety
- Hot stone massage, where heated stones help muscles relax more quickly
- Couples massage, where two people receive full body massage in the same room
Each option is customized to your body and performed by trained professionals.
What to Expect During a Full Body Massage Session
If you’re new to massage therapy, understanding what to expect can help you feel more comfortable and relaxed.
Before the massage begins, your licensed therapist will ask about your health history, pressure preference, and any areas of concern. You’ll undress to your comfort level, and proper draping is used at all times to maintain privacy.
You’ll lie on a padded massage table in a quiet, calming environment. The therapist works methodically across the body, adjusting pressure as needed. The experience is designed to promote deep relaxation while supporting physical comfort and balance.
Preparing for a Full Body Massage
Knowing how to prepare for a full body massage helps you get the most from your session. Simple steps include:
- Showering beforehand
- Wearing comfortable clothing
- Staying hydrated before and after your session
- Communicating openly with your therapist
After the massage, it’s normal to feel relaxed or slightly tired as the body adjusts. Drinking water helps support circulation and the body’s natural detox processes.
Making Full Body Massage Part of Your Self‑Care Plan
Many clients choose to include full body massage in a long‑term self‑care plan. Frequency depends on lifestyle and physical demands. Some people schedule weekly sessions, while others prefer a monthly full body massage for maintenance.
Regular sessions help support flexibility, posture, and overall movement quality while encouraging consistent care for both physical and mental health.
Full Body Massage at Step Above Massage
At Step Above Massage, we believe massage therapy is essential for maintaining overall wellness. We offer professionally delivered full body massage services at our Raleigh and Wake Forest locations, using skilled techniques and personalized care.
Our services include Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, hot stone massage, couples massage, sports massage, prenatal massage, and manual lymphatic drainage. Every session provides full hands‑on treatment time, ensuring you receive the care you booked without feeling rushed.
We’re open daily from 09:00 AM to 09:00 PM, and appointments can be booked online 24/7 or by calling 919‑928‑2934.
Final Thoughts
A full body massage is more than a single appointment—it’s a structured massage therapy experience designed to support the body as a whole. When performed by a licensed professional, it becomes a valuable therapeutic treatment that fits naturally into a healthy lifestyle focused on balance, comfort, and long‑term care.
Relax your body. Restore your balance.
Schedule your session today at Step Above Massage and experience professional full body massage designed around your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Full Body Massage
How much of my body is actually massaged during a “full body” session?
A standard session is a head-to-toe experience. It typically includes your back, neck, shoulders, arms, hands, legs, and feet. Specialized areas like the scalp, glutes, or hips are included based on your specific needs, comfort level, and always with your explicit consent and professional draping for privacy.
What should I wear, and how much clothing do I need to remove?
Your comfort is our priority. Most clients undress to their underwear, but you are welcome to undress to your personal comfort level. You will be lying on a padded table under a sheet or blanket, and our licensed therapists use professional draping techniques to ensure only the area being worked on is ever exposed.
Can I choose between a relaxing or a firm massage during a full body session?
Absolutely. We customize every session based on your preference. You can choose a Swedish Massage style if you want light-to-medium pressure for deep relaxation, or a Deep Tissue style if you have chronic muscle tightness and prefer firmer, more targeted pressure. Just let your therapist know your goal before you begin.
Do I get the full time I booked, or does it include consultation time?
At Step Above Massage, we believe in transparency. We ensure you receive the full hands-on treatment time you booked. We recommend arriving a few minutes early for your initial consultation so we can discuss your health history and pressure preferences without cutting into your massage time.
Is a full body massage helpful if I have specific joint pain or posture issues?
Yes. Because we treat the body as a connected system, a full body massage helps release tension in the muscle groups that support your joints. By improving blood circulation and flexibility across your whole body, it can help reduce the strain caused by poor posture or repetitive movements, making it an excellent addition to a long-term wellness plan.
