Swedish Massage

Your first Swedish massage begins with a brief consultation where your therapist will discuss your health history, areas of concern, and preferences for pressure and focus areas. You’ll be provided with privacy to undress to your comfort level and position yourself on the heated massage table under clean linens. Your therapist will use a combination of long gliding strokes, gentle kneading, and rhythmic movements to promote relaxation and address muscle tension. Sessions typically last 60 or 90 minutes, and you’ll have time to relax and rehydrate afterward.

The frequency of Swedish massage depends on your individual needs, stress levels, and wellness goals. Many clients find that monthly sessions help maintain general wellness and stress management, while those dealing with chronic tension or high-stress lifestyles may benefit from bi-weekly appointments. Weekly sessions can provide maximum therapeutic benefit for those recovering from injury or managing ongoing muscle tension. Your massage therapist can help you develop a schedule that fits your needs and budget.

Swedish massage is generally safe for most people and can be beneficial for many health conditions, including arthritis, fibromyalgia, and chronic pain. However, certain conditions may require modifications or medical clearance before massage therapy. Always inform your therapist about any medical conditions, medications, recent injuries, or surgeries. We recommend consulting with your healthcare provider before beginning massage therapy if you have any concerns about how it might interact with your current health status.

Swedish massage uses lighter to moderate pressure with flowing, rhythmic strokes designed primarily for relaxation and general wellness. Deep tissue massage employs slower, more intense pressure to reach deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue, specifically targeting chronic tension and adhesions. Many clients at Perfect Fitness enjoy combining elements of both techniques in a single session, starting with Swedish massage for overall relaxation and incorporating deeper work in specific problem areas.

Arrive 10-15 minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork and begin relaxing before your session. Avoid eating a large meal within two hours of your appointment, but don’t arrive hungry either. Stay hydrated throughout the day, and consider avoiding caffeine before your massage as it can interfere with relaxation. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that’s easy to remove and put back on. Most importantly, come with an open mind and willingness to communicate with your therapist about your comfort and preferences.

Absolutely! Many clients create comprehensive wellness days by combining Swedish massage with our fitness classes, sauna time, or smoothie bar visits. We recommend scheduling your massage after any vigorous exercise to maximize relaxation benefits, though gentle activities like yoga can complement your massage beautifully. Our front desk staff can help you coordinate multiple services and create a personalized wellness experience that fits your schedule and goals.

Drink plenty of water following your massage to help flush metabolic waste products that were released during the treatment. Avoid strenuous activities for the rest of the day, allowing your body to fully absorb the benefits of the massage. Take a warm bath with Epsom salts if you have access, as this can help extend the relaxation response and further ease any residual muscle tension. Many clients find that gentle stretching or light walking helps maintain the improved flexibility and circulation gained during their massage session.