How to Perform a Full Body Massage
The benefits of a full body massage range from relaxing to therapeutic. Professional therapists administer massages to clients. However, amateurs can give a full body massages as a birthday or anniversary gift.
Step 1
Invite your client to disrobe and get under the top sheet face down, with his face in the face cradle. Inform him you will return in two minutes, then leave the room. Allow him time to disrobe and get under the sheets. Wash your hands, knock on the door and walk in cautiously.
Step 2
Adjust the face cradle if necessary, and insert the foot rest under the ankles.
Step 3
Fold the top sheet in half, at the base of the sacrum, to fully expose the back. Dispense the massage oil or cream into your hands and rub them together to bring it up to body temperature before touching your client's body.
Step 4
Perform a body stroke. Start at the lowest point on the back, using the entire surface of your hands. Employ about 25 percent pressure for the first pass, and use progressively firmer pressure to suit the client as the massage continues. Travel up the spine to the neck, out to and over the shoulders. Grasp the arms and glide down the arm to the hands with a gentle tug. Repeat several times, on both sides, reapplying oil as necessary.
Step 5
Re-drape the body vertically, so the entire left side is revealed. Carry out several more full body strokes, starting at the toes and moving up and around to the fingers.
Step 6
Utilize the "open C, closed C" technique to massage the arms, back and legs in any order. Execute this by making the shape of a "C" with both hands, as you confidently grasp and pinch the muscular tissue. Maintain contact with the client's body and rhythmically close one hand while you open the other, slowly traveling across the body.
Step 7
Re-drape the body to expose the other side. Repeat steps 5 and 6, then cover the entire body with the top sheet.
Step 8
Instruct the client to get dressed when you leave the room.
Tips and Warnings
- Respecting the client's privacy by maintaining proper draping helps her to relax and trust you.
- Ask your client about allergies and preexisting conditions.
Things You'll Need
- Massage table
- Two sheets
- Face cradle cover
- Massage oil or creme