Whether your coming for pain reduction, sports, fibromyalgia, stress or just for the pleasure, there are probably questions you want answered and some questions you never thought to ask. What's expected of the massage therapist? What's expected of you? Here are some of the most common FAQs. If you can think of any additional ones, please let me know!
1. When you book your massage be aware that you will need a little time to relax and unwind before you start, also, I may have some questions for you, so please try to arrive at least five minutes early. If you are running late, let me know as often there will be a client after you and if you are running too late it could cut your appointment short.
2. You want to make sure you are clean before your massage, it is respectful to me, and yourself, who is about to be treating your (now clean) self.
3. This massage session is about you and your needs as well as your comfort. I will consult you about your needs and your desired results from the massage, but I cannot address something if you don’t tell me. If at any time you feel the pressure is not enough or even too much, speak up and ask me to adjust. If anything else comes into your mind that you might want to ask about or have addressed, speak up! I can only address what I am made aware of.
4. Don’t let the thoughts of “what do I wear, do I wear anything?” get you in a frenzy. As I mentioned before a massage is about you, your comfort and needs. I will tell you to disrobe to your comfort level, and that is exactly what you should do! If you feel comfortable fully disrobing then do so, if you feel more comfortable leaving your underwear on, then do so! You will be under a sheet the entire time, and only the body part that is being worked on will be uncovered. Please note, certain undergarments, such as bras can hinder work on certain areas of the body. Please discuss with me any issues you have.
5. “Am I supposed to talk, or be silent?” Again, another anxiety causing worry, which can be related back to your comfort level. A massage therapist will remain quiet during the massage, giving you the opportunity to relax. If you want to talk to me that is perfectly fine, but responses may be short, as to not control the conversation. Some people can relax better if they carry on a conversation with their therapist while others prefer to remain silent and even fall asleep.
6. Music will be played. If you don't like it, or prefer different music please tell the therapist.
7. Oil will be used during the massage so make sure the therapist knows on any allergies, preferences etc.
8. Remember to breath normally. This is a safe space and you can relax.
9. Assuming your having a full-body massage, half the time you'll be on your back, and half the time on your front. Make sure the therapist knows of any mobility or comfort issues as soon as they occur. Pillows, bolsters and rolled up towels can be used to help take any strain away so let them know! Your comfort is paramount.
You should never feel any significant pain during a massage. Contrary to popular belief even deep tissue isn't supposed to cause any significant pain! Don't be afraid to speak up and let me know if they I am pushing too hard, or if there is a particularly sensitive spot.
After your massage session is complete I will leave the room allowing you to redress. You will want to take a couple of minutes and get up slowly. I will be waiting for you outside the door and may have another client after you so need to get the linens changed and get the room ready for the next lucky person!
Tips, are neither expected or requested.
Your expectations should include:
Mutual respect, courtesy, professionalism, confidentiality and dignity between you and the massage therapist
Being draped appropriately by a sheet, towel or blanket, with only the area being massaged exposed
A professional massage therapist, working within their scope of practice and in an ethical manner.
A health intake conversation about your medical conditions and your expectations for the massage
The right and option to ask questions and receive professional responses
The right to determine if there will be conversation, music or quiet during the massage
An explanation of the nature of the massage and techniques to be used before the start of the massage
The right to consent to the massage techniques and approaches, including the level of manual pressure, used in the massage and the ability to request adjustments to pressure at any time during the massage
The right to stop a massage at any time for any reason, whether you choose to give one or not.