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1105 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34205Monday: Closed · Tuesday – Friday: 3 p.m. – 9 p.m. · Saturday: 1 p.m. – 8 p.m. · Sunday: 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.Tuesday – Friday: 3 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Session

Swedish massage

Long, even strokes at a pressure you choose, at any length from 30 to 90 minutes.

Swedish is the classic: slow gliding strokes, kneading and gentle rhythm. It suits first-timers and regulars alike. I work from the back to the arms, legs and feet, and spend longer on the places you name.

Lengths

  • 30 and 45 minutes

  • 60 and 75 minutes

  • 90 minutes

A therapist's hand resting on a client's shoulder, with a white towel covering the rest

What happens

In the room

  1. 01

    Step 1: Check-in

    You say how you want the session to feel and where you want extra time.

  2. 02

    Step 2: Back and shoulders

    Long, even strokes at a pressure we have agreed.

  3. 03

    Step 3: Arms, legs and feet

    Each part is uncovered in turn and covered again when I move on.

  4. 04

    Step 4: Finish

    A slower close, then time to rest before you get up.

Good to know

Pressure, cover and what to wear

  • Pressure

    Pressure starts light to medium and goes where you want it. Ask for more or less at any point.

  • Covered

    You are covered by a sheet or towel the whole time. Only the part I am working on is uncovered, and it is covered again when I move on.

  • Ask your doctor first

    If you are pregnant, or have had recent surgery or an injury, ask your doctor or midwife before you book, and tell me when you arrive.

  • What to wear

    Undress to your comfort and keep your underwear on if you prefer. You are covered throughout.

Who does it

One therapist, every session

Merlene holds a Florida massage therapist license and does every session herself.

  • Merlene Bartley in a sage-green tunic, smiling and folding towels beside the treatment table

    Merlene Bartley

    Licensed massage therapist and owner

    • Massage Therapist License · FL Lic. 000000

    Merlene is the only therapist at Settle, so you see her at every visit. She keeps the room quiet and the pace unhurried, and she takes the evening appointments for people who work evenings. She speaks English.

Questions

About swedish massage

Is this a good first session?

Yes. A 60-minute Swedish session is the one I suggest if you are not sure what pressure you like.

Can I change the pressure partway through?

As often as you like. I will also check in with you.

Can I add time on the night?

If the next slot is open, I can add 15 minutes. Otherwise add it when you book.

Choose an evening

Pick a Swedish length and a time on the online calendar.