Californian massage
Long, fluid, enveloping strokes with warm oil, to release the body and quieten the mind.
Californian massage was the first technique I trained in, and it is the one I recommend to anyone who has never been massaged before. It is built on long, continuous strokes that travel across the body in a single movement, from the lower back to the shoulders, from the ankle to the hip, without ever leaving the skin. Warm oil, slowness and unbroken movement bring the pace right down within minutes.
The pressure stays moderate: the aim is not to work a muscle in depth but to give the body time to settle. I use my forearms and palms as much as my fingers, wrapping each area rather than pinpointing it, which is what gives that characteristic feeling of being carried. The oils I use are certified organic, with no synthetic fragrance.
I offer it in 60, 90 or 120 minutes. One hour is enough for the back, legs and neck; 90 minutes covers the whole body unhurriedly, arms, hands and feet included; 120 minutes adds the face and scalp. At the Antibes studio or at your place, whether a villa, a hotel or a yacht, the session runs exactly the same way, on my table, with my own linen and oils.
What this massage brings
- A rapid calming of the nervous system, noticeable within minutes
- All-over muscular relaxation without strong pressure
- Sleep that often comes more easily that same night
- A sense of the body as one piece, thanks to the continuous strokes
- A gentle massage suited to every sensitivity
Who it is for
- You have never had a massage and want to start gently
- You feel stressed or restless and sleep badly
- You prefer light to moderate pressure
- You are after a moment of calm rather than muscular work
Good to know
- Californian is one of the gentlest massages and suits most people, but do mention pregnancy, recent surgery or fragile skin before booking.
- The oil is warmed and applied generously, so wear something easy to slip back on and let me know about any known allergy.
- If you get cold easily, tell me; I keep unmassaged areas covered and adjust the room temperature.
Questions about this massage
Is Californian massage a relaxation massage or a full-body massage?
Both. It is a whole-body technique, but its first purpose is relaxation rather than muscular work. The pressure stays gentle and the strokes are long and continuous. If you want a specific knot worked out, Swedish massage or deep massage will suit you better.
Do I need to undress completely?
You keep your underwear on, and I leave the room while you settle under the sheet. Throughout the session only the area being massaged is uncovered; the rest of your body stays draped. If you would rather keep more on, just say so and I adapt.
How long should I book for a first Californian massage?
Sixty minutes makes a good first appointment: back, legs and neck, with time to notice how your body responds. If you already know you enjoy being massaged, 90 minutes lets me include the arms, hands and feet, and it is the length most of my clients end up preferring.