A Swedish massage is one of the most widely known types of bodywork, primarily focusing on general relaxation and improving circulation. The technique uses long, gliding strokes, kneading, and circular movements to warm up muscle tissue and release tension. These movements are generally lighter than those used in deep tissue massage. Many people feel anxious about what to wear, especially since oils or lotions are often applied. Understanding the professional standards for client comfort and modesty can alleviate this concern, allowing you to fully benefit from the session.
What to Wear Before and After the Massage
Before you arrive for your Swedish massage, selecting the right clothes can enhance the post-session experience. Choose attire that is loose-fitting, comfortable, and easy to slip on and off. Examples include sweatpants, yoga pants, or a simple t-shirt, which will not restrict movement or apply pressure to relaxed muscles after the session.
Avoid wearing items with complicated fasteners, such as numerous buttons, tight zippers, or restrictive elastic bands. Since massage oils or lotions are commonly used, residual oil may transfer to your clothing, making tight garments uncomfortable to put back on. It is also recommended to remove all jewelry before the massage begins, as these can interfere with the therapist’s strokes or get stained by the massage medium.
Understanding the Draping Technique
Professional draping is the industry standard that ensures your modesty is maintained throughout the entire session. This technique involves using large sheets or towels to cover your body, exposing only the specific area the therapist is actively working on. For example, when the therapist works on your back, the rest of your body remains completely covered.
The procedure begins with the therapist leaving the room to allow you to undress privately and get settled onto the massage table under the sheet. You will usually begin lying face down with your face resting in a cushioned cradle. The therapist will knock before re-entering the room to confirm you are ready, providing a secure and respectful boundary. This continuous covering maintains security and helps keep you warm, supporting muscle relaxation during the treatment.
The therapist will skillfully manage the sheet, making quick, professional adjustments to expose a body part, such as one leg or one arm. They immediately re-cover the area once the work is complete. This systematic method ensures that your private areas are always concealed, creating a secure environment where you can focus solely on the therapeutic benefits.
Guidelines for Undergarments
The decision of what to wear under the sheet is ultimately a matter of personal preference, as you are asked to undress to your “level of comfort.” Many clients choose to remove all clothing, while others prefer to keep their underwear on. A licensed therapist is trained to work around undergarments and will maintain your modesty regardless of your choice.
If you choose to wear undergarments, simple, non-restrictive briefs are preferred over items like thongs or large padded bras. You will be asked to remove a bra so the therapist can effectively work on the muscles across your back and shoulders without obstruction. While a therapist can easily work around underwear, full nudity allows for completely unobstructed, flowing strokes, which can be beneficial for areas like the hips or gluteal region. Some facilities may offer disposable underwear as an option to prevent oil from staining your personal items.