Relaxation Massage
Massage Type Offered - Relaxation
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Relaxation Massage in Fort McMurray
Relaxation massage, also known as Swedish massage, uses long, firm, gliding strokes over the whole body to calm the nervous system and improve circulation. It is the most common starting point for anyone booking their first massage. Higher Health Acupuncture & Massage Therapy Clinic offers it with registered massage therapists in Fort McMurray, Alberta.
Session length - 45 / 60 / 90 minutes
Pressure - Light to medium, firm but gentle
Clothing - Undressed to your comfort level, draped throughout
Best for - First-time clients, stress, general tension
Booking - Standalone treatment
Insurance - Registered therapist receipt provided for direct billing
What is relaxation massage?
Relaxation massage is a full-body treatment built on firm, sweeping strokes rather than deep, targeted pressure. You lie on a padded table with a face cradle, starting face down.
The therapist works long, brush-like strokes along your back, then out over the shoulders and arms, then down through the lower back and legs. Roughly halfway through the appointment you turn over, and the second half covers the upper shoulders, arms and the fronts of the legs.
Therapists use the flat palm, the heel of the hand, or grouped fingertips to apply pressure to tight spots and to lengthen the muscle. The goal is circulation and blood flow to the large muscle groups, not breaking down scar tissue.
What does relaxation massage help with?
- Overall relaxation and stress reduction
- Better blood circulation
- Stronger immune function
- Better mental health
- Recovery from injury and illness
- Better skin tone
What to expect in your session
- Your therapist reviews your health history and asks what you want from the session.
- They leave the room while you undress to your comfort level and get under the sheet.
- You start face down with your face in the cradle.
- The therapist works the back of the body, then asks you to turn over.
- You dress, and reception provides your receipt.
Pressure is adjustable at any point. If it is too light or too heavy, say so during the treatment. You will not offend your therapist. The same goes for music, conversation and silence.
Who should not book relaxation massage
Speak to your therapist or your doctor before booking if you have an acute infection or fever, an active flare of a skin condition over a broad area, a recent fracture or surgery in the area to be treated, a blood clotting disorder, or uncontrolled high blood pressure. If you are pregnant, book Pregnancy Massage instead so you get the correct positioning and bolstering.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. The two names describe the same treatment. Swedish massage is the older clinical term and relaxation massage is how most clients describe what they want.
Relaxation massage works broadly across the whole body with lighter, flowing pressure. Deep tissue massage works slowly into the deeper layers of muscle and fascia on specific areas. Relaxation calms, deep tissue releases.
No. Undress only to the level you are comfortable with. You are draped with a sheet the entire time and only the area being worked on is uncovered.
Tipping is optional, but not expected at a registered clinic. Rebooking is the compliment our therapists notice.
For general stress and maintenance, most clients book every four to six weeks. If you are booking that regularly, our massage membership at $115 per 60 minute treatment is the better rate.
Drink plenty of water, consider a warm bath with epsom salts, and avoid heavy physical activity for 24 to 48 hours. Full guidance is on our New To Massage page.
Related treatments
- Therapeutic Massage - if you have one specific problem area
- Hot Stone Massage - deeper warmth without heavier pressure
- Aromatherapy Massage - added free of charge to any massage
Book online or call 780-743-0566.



