A full body massage is one of the most complete and restorative treatments you can book. It’s designed to address not just one area of tension but the whole body, helping you feel more balanced, less tense, and deeply relaxed.
Yet there’s often some confusion about what “full body” really means. Does it literally mean every part of your body is massaged? Are there areas that therapists avoid? And how do they decide how much time to spend on each section?
In this detailed guide, I’ll walk you through:
- The areas typically covered in a full body massage
- How much time is spent on each section
- Optional areas you can request (or skip)
- The different techniques used for each region
- What to expect if you book a mobile massage in Slough, Maidenhead, Windsor, Ealing, Richmond, or Chiswick
- How to prepare so you get the most benefit
With over 15 years’ experience as a certified, insured, CNHC-registered massage therapist, I’ve helped thousands of clients—from stressed professionals to new parents—experience the deep relief that comes from a tailored, whole-body approach.
What “Full Body” Really Means
When most people hear full body massage, they picture a session that works from head to toe. That’s broadly true, but it’s worth noting that:
- Every therapist works slightly differently.
- The time you’ve booked will affect how much detail each area gets.
- Your personal preferences guide the focus—no area is treated without your consent.
A classic full body massage usually includes:
- Back and shoulders
- Neck
- Arms and hands
- Legs and feet
- Optional abdominal work
- Optional face and scalp massage
If you book with me, we discuss any areas you’d like to skip or spend more time on before we begin. Your comfort is always the priority.
1. Back, Shoulders, and Neck
For most clients, this is the starting point—and for good reason. It’s where daily life tends to store the most tension. Hours of desk work, driving, or carrying children all add up.
What happens during this section:
- Techniques used: A mix of long gliding strokes to warm the muscles, followed by deep tissue massage or trigger point work if you have stubborn knots.
- Benefits: Improves circulation, eases stiffness, and can help reduce headaches caused by tight neck muscles.
- Custom options: If you’re booking a session for pain relief, this section can be extended to spend more time on specific problem areas.
2. Arms and Hands
People are often surprised at how much tension they hold in their arms, wrists, and hands—especially if their work involves typing, manual labour, or childcare.
Focus areas:
- Forearms (often tight from gripping and repetitive movement)
- Wrists and palms (ideal for anyone who works at a computer or plays an instrument)
- Fingers (gentle joint mobilisation and stretching)
Why it matters:
Massaging the arms can improve flexibility, reduce repetitive strain symptoms, and give a deep sense of relaxation, especially when combined with hand reflexology techniques.
3. Legs and Feet
Whether you’re on your feet all day or mostly sitting, the legs take a lot of strain. From the glutes down to the calves, these muscles can be tight, sore, and in need of focused attention.
Techniques include:
- Effleurage to encourage lymphatic drainage
- Deep pressure to release calf and thigh tension
- Stretching for hamstrings and quads
- Foot massage targeting reflex points
Added benefits:
Clients often find that leg and foot work leaves them feeling grounded and lighter—perfect after long hours standing, travel, or exercise.
4. Optional: Abdominal Massage
Abdominal work isn’t always included, but it can be incredibly beneficial. It’s gentle, slow, and helps release tension in the diaphragm and lower back indirectly.
Benefits include:
- Supporting digestion
- Reducing bloating
- Easing tension in hip flexors
- Encouraging deep breathing
If you’d prefer to skip this, that’s absolutely fine—it’s always your choice.
5. Optional: Face and Scalp
This is where the deep relaxation often really settles in. The slow, soothing movements across the temples, jaw, and scalp can release hidden tension you didn’t realise you were holding.
Why it’s worth including:
- Helps reduce tension headaches
- Relieves jaw clenching from stress
- Encourages deeper rest
The Order of Treatment
While there’s no fixed rule, a standard flow might look like this:
- Back, shoulders, and neck
- Back of legs and feet
- Arms and hands
- Front of legs and feet
- Optional abdominal area
- Face and scalp to finish
If you’re booking a 90-minute full body massage, this order allows more time for detail. A 60-minute session may be more condensed, with extra focus on the areas you specify in advance.
How a Mobile Full Body Massage Works
If you’re in Slough, Maidenhead, Windsor, Ealing, Richmond, or Chiswick, I bring the full professional setup to your home:
- High-quality massage table
- Fresh linens
- Soothing oils
- Ambient music
All you need is enough space to set up the table and two towels. You can enjoy the full benefits of a spa-quality massage without travelling—perfect for fitting relaxation into your day.
Full Body Massage and Specific Techniques
Depending on your needs, a full body session can be adapted using different methods:
- Deep Tissue Massage for chronic tension and knots
- Harmonoflow™ for a Therapeutic, Restorative, Transformative, and Immersive experience guided by your breath
- Pregnancy Massage for expectant mothers
- Holistic Massage for stress relief and balance
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
- Communicate any injuries, sensitivities, or areas you’d like to avoid.
- Stay hydrated—it helps your muscles respond better to massage.
- Wear comfortable clothing for before and after the session.
- Allow time to relax afterwards rather than rushing back to work or errands.
Common Questions About Full Body Massage
Does a full body massage include private areas?
No—professional massage therapists do not work on intimate areas.
Can I ask for more time on one area?
Yes, as long as we discuss it before we start, I can adapt the treatment flow.
Is it okay to fall asleep?
Absolutely—it’s a compliment to the therapist that you’re that relaxed.
Final Thoughts
A full body massage isn’t just a luxury—it’s a complete reset for your body and mind. By addressing tension in every major area, it helps restore balance, reduce pain, and leave you feeling recharged.
If you’re in Slough, Maidenhead, Windsor, Ealing, Richmond, Chiswick, or nearby, you can book online in just a few clicks. With over 15 years’ hands-on experience and a commitment to personalised care, every session is tailored to you.
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Here are some additional resources that provide insights into the areas typically addressed during a full-body massage:
What areas are massaged in a full body massage?
This article outlines the common areas targeted in a full-body massage, including the back, neck, shoulders, arms, hands, legs, feet, hips, glutes, abdomen, head, and face.7 Main Body Parts Included in a Full Body Massage
This resource discusses the seven primary body parts typically included in a full-body massage, detailing the benefits of massaging each area.Full Body Massage: What Is It and What to Expect
This guide explains what a full-body massage entails, the areas usually covered, and the benefits associated with the treatment.Choosing Your Massage Focus Target Spots
This article provides insights into selecting specific areas for massage focus, highlighting popular regions such as the neck, shoulders, back, buttocks, thighs, feet, chest, and stomach.Will I have to undress when I'm having a full body massage?
This piece discusses what to expect during a full-body massage, including which body parts are typically massaged and considerations regarding clothing and modesty.
These resources offer comprehensive information on what to expect during a full-body massage and the specific areas that are commonly addressed.
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