Discover the Different Styles of Full Body Massage

You’ve probably heard the term full body massage thrown around at spas, wellness centers, or even from a friend who just came back from a weekend getaway. But what does it actually mean? And more importantly-what kind of full body massage is right for you? Not all full body massages are the same. Some feel like a warm hug from a cloud. Others feel like a reset button for your aching muscles. Knowing the difference can turn a good session into a life-changing one.

What Exactly Is a Full Body Massage?

A full body massage isn’t just a massage that covers more area-it’s a tailored experience designed to work on every major muscle group from head to toe. That includes your scalp, neck, shoulders, arms, hands, back, glutes, legs, and feet. But here’s the catch: the techniques, pressure, and rhythm change depending on the style. One person might walk out feeling like they’ve been floated through a dream. Another might feel like they’ve just survived a tough workout-except the soreness feels good.

It’s not about how long it lasts (though most are 60 to 90 minutes). It’s about the intention behind the strokes. Are you looking to melt away stress? Repair sports damage? Rebalance energy? Each style answers a different need.

Why Try Different Styles? (And Why One Size Doesn’t Fit All)

Let’s be real-you wouldn’t wear running shoes to a ballroom dance. So why use the same massage for every kind of tension? Your body tells you what it needs. Maybe your shoulders are stiff from staring at a screen all day. Maybe your lower back screams after a long commute. Or maybe you just need to feel human again after months of burnout.

Here’s the truth: one style won’t fix everything. But knowing your options? That’s power. You’re not just getting a massage-you’re choosing a tool for your well-being.

Swedish Massage: The Classic Relaxation Go-To

If you’ve ever walked into a spa and weren’t sure what to pick, you probably ended up with Swedish. And for good reason. It’s the foundation of most Western massage therapy.

Think long, flowing strokes, gentle kneading, and circular movements. It’s not deep. It’s not intense. It’s designed to calm your nervous system. The oil glides easily. The rhythm is slow. The lights are low. You’ll feel your breathing drop, your jaw unclench, and your shoulders sink.

Best for: Stress relief, beginners, anyone who just wants to unwind. If you’ve never had a massage before, start here.

Deep Tissue Massage: For the Chronic Aches

Swedish is like a warm blanket. Deep tissue is like a personal trainer for your muscles-except instead of reps, they use elbows and knuckles.

This style targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. It’s slower. It’s heavier. It might hurt a little-think “good hurt,” not “stop-that-hurts” hurt. Therapists use focused pressure to break up knots, release adhesions, and restore mobility. It’s not for everyone. But if you’ve got tight hamstrings from sitting too long, or a stiff neck from years of cradling a phone, this is your lifeline.

Best for: Athletes, desk workers, people with chronic pain. Don’t book this right before a big event-you might feel sore the next day.

Thai Massage: Stretch, Press, and Flow

Thai massage doesn’t happen on a table. You stay dressed in loose clothes and lie on a mat on the floor. The therapist uses their hands, knees, legs, and feet to guide you through a series of yoga-like stretches while applying rhythmic pressure along energy lines.

It’s like being gently manipulated by a very strong, very calm yoga instructor. You’ll feel pulled, pressed, and stretched in ways you didn’t know your body could move. It’s not relaxing in the traditional sense-it’s energizing. People often walk out feeling taller, looser, and oddly alert.

Best for: People who hate lying still, those who love yoga, anyone feeling stiff or sluggish. Skip this if you’re sensitive to touch or dislike being moved around.

Hot Stone Massage: Warmth That Melts Stress

Imagine smooth, heated stones-some as warm as a cup of tea-being placed along your spine, in your palms, and over tight muscles. Then, the therapist glides them over your skin, using the heat to sink deeper into tension.

The heat relaxes muscles so deeply that even stubborn knots soften. It’s like giving your body a warm hug from the inside out. Many people say they fall asleep during this one. And honestly? You should. It’s that effective.

Best for: Cold weather, high stress, anyone with muscle stiffness. Avoid if you’re sensitive to heat or have circulation issues.

Other Styles You Might Encounter

There are more styles out there, and you might run into them depending on where you go.

• Shiatsu: Japanese finger pressure along meridians. Feels like acupuncture without needles.
• Aromatherapy Massage: Swedish or deep tissue with essential oils (lavender for calm, eucalyptus for energy).
• Lymphatic Drainage: Super light, rhythmic strokes to move fluid. Great after surgery or for bloating.
• Myofascial Release: Targets the connective tissue wrapping your muscles. Think slow, sustained pressure.

Don’t feel pressured to know them all. Just remember: if a therapist says they do “full body,” ask them which style they use. That’s the real question.

What to Expect During Your First Full Body Massage

Walk in. You’ll be asked to fill out a quick form-anything from allergies to recent injuries. Then you’ll be led to a quiet room with soft music and dim lighting.

You’ll undress to your comfort level. Most people keep their underwear on. The therapist will leave the room while you get under the sheet. Only the part being worked on will be uncovered. Privacy is non-negotiable.

They’ll check in: “Is the pressure okay?” Don’t be shy. Too light? Say so. Too hard? Tell them. This is your time. They’re not here to impress you with strength-they’re here to listen to your body.

The session ends with a few minutes of stillness. You’ll be offered water. And then-you’ll feel different. Lighter. Calmer. Like you’ve been unplugged and plugged back in.

How Much Does It Cost? (Real Prices in Amsterdam)

Prices vary based on location, therapist experience, and session length. In Amsterdam, here’s what you’ll typically pay:

Higher-end spas in De Pijp or the Jordaan might charge more. But you’ll find excellent therapists in neighborhood studios for under €70. Always check reviews. A good therapist matters more than a fancy room.

How to Find the Right Place in Amsterdam

Don’t just pick the first Google result. Here’s how to find a real pro:

1. Look for therapists with certifications-like from the Dutch Association for Massage Therapy (NVMT).
2. Read recent reviews. Look for mentions of communication, hygiene, and whether the therapist adjusted pressure.
3. Call ahead. Ask: “Do you specialize in full body massage? Which style do you recommend for stress relief?” Their answer tells you everything.
4. Try a smaller studio over a chain. The personal touch makes a difference.
5. Check out places in De Pijp, Oud-West, or the Nine Streets. These areas have a high concentration of skilled, independent therapists.

Some places even offer a 15-minute free consultation. Use it. Ask questions. Trust your gut.

Safety Tips: What to Watch Out For

Most full body massages are safe. But here’s what to avoid:

• Anyone who doesn’t ask about injuries or medical conditions.
• Therapists who use too much oil and leave your skin greasy.
• Places where you’re not given privacy to undress.
• Hot stone sessions if you have diabetes, neuropathy, or are pregnant without clearance.
• Deep tissue if you have recent bruises, fractures, or blood clots.

Always speak up if something feels off. Your comfort is part of the healing.

Swedish vs. Deep Tissue: Which Should You Choose?

If you’re unsure, start with Swedish. If you still feel tight after a few sessions, then try deep tissue. It’s not an either/or-it’s a progression.

Ready to Feel Like Yourself Again?

You don’t need to wait for a vacation to feel good. You don’t need to spend hours in a gym to release tension. Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do is lie down, breathe, and let someone else take care of your body for an hour.

Try one style. See how it feels. Then try another. You might just discover the one that turns your regular days into calm ones.