Massage Etiquette: What Your Therapist Wants You to Know
- Rebecca Knubley
- Jun 8, 2024
- 7 min read
We’ve all thought it, haven’t we? As you step into the serene ambiance of a massage room, you can’t help but wonder: What should I do? How should I act? And do my undies really matter? As a massage therapist with years of experience, I’m here to demystify these questions and guide you on how to get the BEST out of your treatments. Whether you have awkward massage questions or just feel uncomfortable about the whole process, this blog will put your mind at ease and help you fully enjoy your next massage session. From undressing etiquette to communication tips, let’s dive into what really matters for a relaxing and effective massage experience.
“The benefits of a massage include a 31% reduction of cortisol (the fear hormone) levels; a 31% increase in dopamine (the neurotransmitter of motivation); a 28% elevation of serotonin (the neurochemical responsible for regulating anxiety and raising happiness)" - Robin S. Sharma
The Healing Power of Massage: More Than a Luxury
As a trained massage therapist, I’ve always believed in the profound benefits of massage—not just because it’s my profession, but because it genuinely improves well-being. While a luxurious spa day or a wellness retreat might seem out of reach for many due to time or financial constraints, self-massage offers an accessible alternative that can be just as beneficial.
The Benefits of Self-Massage
Every night, I practice self-massage, a ritual that has become essential to my routine. It helps me unwind, alleviating the stresses, aches, and pains accumulated throughout the day. This simple practice enhances my sleep quality and overall mental clarity. You don’t need to break the bank to experience the benefits of massage; a few minutes of self-care each day can make a significant difference.
The Misconceptions About Massage
Many view massage therapy as a self-indulgent luxury. In our busy lives, the idea of taking time out for a massage can seem impossible. When I ask my clients if they get regular massages, the most common response is that they don’t have the time. For me, finding a good therapist can be challenging, and I don’t want to waste money on unsatisfactory treatments. But once I find a therapist who understands my needs, I stick with them.
What if I forgot to shave?
It’s completely okay if you’ve forgotten to shave your legs before your massage appointment. At our practice, we embrace the philosophy of “your body, your rules.” There is no judgment here; our primary goal is to make you feel better and provide a relaxing, holistic experience. It’s natural to overcompensate or feel the need to apologise for things that don’t require an apology. However, rest assured, your therapist doesn’t mind if you’re due for a wax appointment or haven’t had time to shave. We understand that life gets busy, and what’s most important is your comfort and well-being.
Do I leave my underwear on?
First off, whether you leave your underwear on or take them off is entirely up to you. If your undies feel like they’re plotting against your comfort, or you’ve just come from a swim and they’re soggy, feel free to ditch them. We often provide disposable undies, and trust me, we have draping techniques so precise that Houdini would be proud. Your private bits will remain, well, private.
Now, if you’re fretting over your underwear choice, imagining us thinking, “Oh no, not the holey undies or that barely-there G-string,” relax! We’re not judging. In fact, with proper draping, we probably won’t even see them. Our minds are on knots and tension, not your undergarment fashion.
Got your big comfy period underwear on? No worries! Rock those granny panties. Wearing long boxers? Totally fine, though they might block us from reaching those glute muscles. So, if you want a thorough massage, you might consider letting them go for the session.
At the end of the day, it’s all about your comfort. So, come as you are, and let us work our magic.
I have my period, should I still get a massage?
Getting a massage during your period is not only safe but can also be particularly beneficial. Communicate openly with your therapist to ensure your treatment is customised to your needs, allowing you to enjoy the full benefits of the session. Remember, your comfort and well-being are their top priorities. Remember, they are healthcare professionals and accustomed to addressing various physical conditions. And if your experiencing period anxiety, wear an extra pay of underwear or ask for an additional towel for that security. Benefits of Massage During Menstruation;
• Pain Relief: A massage can help reduce menstrual cramps and lower back pain by relaxing tense muscles.
• Stress Reduction: The calming effect of a massage can alleviate mood swings and anxiety associated with hormonal changes.
• Improved Circulation: Enhanced blood flow can help relieve bloating and promote overall well-being.
What should I do if I need to pass gas?
It’s completely natural to feel embarrassed if you need to pass gas during your massage, but it’s a common occurrence that therapists are accustomed to. One way to ease your mind is to focus on relaxing your body rather than worrying about holding in gas. Before your massage, consider eating light and avoiding foods that may cause gas. If gas does escape unintentionally, a simple apology or ignoring it is perfectly fine; your therapist won’t mention it or treat you differently. In my practice, I sometimes enhance the massage oil with extra scent and use diffusers to minimise any lingering odours, but rest assured, it’s all part of providing a comfortable experience for you.
Do I speak up if I don't like the pressure?
Would you call a waiter over if your chicken meal wasn’t cooked properly? Some of you would, while others might not. I used to be in the latter group, never speaking up, afraid of sounding rude or unpleasant. However, I soon realised, especially as someone who provides treatments, that it’s always best to voice your concerns if you’re not satisfied. There’s always a polite and kind way to address issues.
When it comes to massages, never sit through an entire 60 or 90-minute session, spending a lot of money, without enjoying it. A good therapist will check in with you about how you’re feeling and whether you need more or less pressure. It’s our job to ensure the service meets your standards. I assure you, if you ask for a little more pressure here or a little less there, we appreciate the feedback.
So, the answer is: YES, ALWAYS speak up.
How to get the best out of your treatments: Before and After:
Planning a spa day or indulging in a one-off treatment is a fantastic way to relax and rejuvenate. However, to get the most out of your experience, it’s important to prepare your body in advance. Here’s a guide to ensure you’re ready for a blissful and effective spa experience.
The Day Before: Preparation is Key
1. Mind Your Meals: Avoid heavy meals the night before your spa day. Skip rich, greasy foods and instead opt for lighter, easier-to-digest options. This will help your body feel light and comfortable.
2. Limit Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can leave you feeling dehydrated and sluggish. Keep your alcohol intake to a minimum the day before to ensure you feel fresh and energised.
3. Know Your Body: If you have food sensitivities, be mindful of them. For example, I know that dairy and gluten can upset my stomach. If I indulge in cheese fondue and red wine the night before, I’ll be uncomfortable and unable to fully relax during my spa day.
The Day Of: Comfort and Hydration
1. Dress for Comfort: Wear loose, soft-fitting clothing. After your treatment, the last thing you want is to squeeze into tight jeans. Comfort is key to maintaining that relaxed feeling.
2. Morning Routine: Start your day with a refreshing drink like a green juice or lemon water. This helps to hydrate and prepare your body for the treatments ahead.
3. Light Eating: Keep your meals light throughout the day. Your body will be in recovery mode, and heavy meals can be taxing on your digestive system. Enjoy a balanced, moderate meal, you can still enjoy a lunch or afternoon tea with champers, but avoid overindulgence.
4. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is crucial. It helps flush out toxins and keeps you feeling refreshed and energised.
5. Temperature Awareness: After a massage or treatment, your blood pressure might lower, making you feel cold. Bring a cozy jumper to stay comfortable.
Follow-Up Care: Maintain the Bliss
1. Hydrate: Continue drinking lots of water post-treatment. This helps to maintain the benefits of the treatments and keeps your body feeling good.
2. Rest and Recover: Your nervous system and gut are getting a rare break, so don’t rush back into a hectic routine. Allow yourself some downtime to fully enjoy the afterglow of your spa day.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your spa day is as relaxing and beneficial as possible. Preparing your body in advance and taking care of it afterward will help you make the most of your spa experience. All this talk about massage is making me crave one myself! Remember, taking care of your body isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Enjoy your day of pampering!
Disclaimer:
The content provided in this blog post is for informational and educational purposes only. All information shared is based on personal experiences and insights. The author does not claim to be a medical professional, and the content should not be construed as medical advice or a substitute for professional medical guidance. It is essential to consult with your doctor, therapist, or counselor before implementing any practices discussed in this blog post. The author holds no responsibility for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.
Thank you for your understanding.
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