Massage Etiquette
Whether you are a therapy connoisseur or you have never had it before, every massage therapist is different and what is expected by the therapist can vary greatly. So here is a bit of a breakdown of how Intuitive Kneads handles indifferent questions that are most often avoided being asked. Feelings of apprehension are normal. So, here are some Do's and Don'ts of massage we agree also conveys our beliefs…
DO
In many countries it is common practice to be buff for your massage, and sheets are used to keep your dignity. Intuitive Kneads treatments vary and for that reason all clients are asked to wear fitness type clothing and socks.
Intuitive Kneads Signature massage is the "FOCUS" Pain Relief treatment which involves more movement than a typical massage… and could leave you feeling rather exposed if you're not wearing anything.
It is advised that you wear something comfy and stretchy on the legs, e.g., leggings, and avoid wearing belts, jeans, trousers/shorts without any stretch or lots of pockets.
DO NOT
Be body conscious - We are muscle experts, and muscles come in all shapes and sizes, and while giving a treatment we visualize the body on an anatomical level. We are not bothered by what the outside looks like, it’s what’s on the inside that counts, we do not notice or care if you think you have bingo wings, muffin tops or moobs! As the owner of the body you should be thankful, imperfections and all, that it has functioned so well as to bring you to our massage table, and while you're there we will do our best to make you feel at ease and comfortable, and once the massage treatment has started, you will forget all about your body worries.
DO NOT
worry about body hair - Hairy legs, armpits, chests, backs… we don’t care. Don’t feel embarrassed if you haven’t had time or forgotten to de-hair before your appointment. or you have your winter fuzz on. Even if you do go to the effort of hair removal before an appointment, many people can shave in the morning and have stubble by the afternoon and a massage can cause irritation too soon after shaving. So, we do appreciate the effort, but please do not feel obliged.
DO NOT
Make an effort - Make-up will get smudged, fake tan will stain the linen and towels, hair will get messed up and greasy, jewelry will get in the way, and strong perfume can be overpowering in a small room, and although every client gets a completely fresh set of linen and towels, the smell of perfume does tend to linger in the treatment room after you have gone, which can be off putting for the next client. So, to avoid nose offending anyone, it is best to leave the scent to a fresh light bit of deodorant.
DO NOT
be afraid to nod off - A good massage does have a very powerful relaxing effect and many clients do end up dozing off during their treatment, and that is fine. It is your body letting you have that bit of well-earned rest it is probably craving. Don’t worry about missing out on the enjoyment of a massage while in dreamland, the advantage is your muscles will be totally relaxed, allowing your therapist to really work into the muscles for maximum benefit
ABSOLUTELY DO, DO, DO
shower - We have many people coming to have a sports massage straight from a workout, training session, or sports event, and we do not mind if you arrive on the table sweaty… that is all part of sports massage.
However, personal hygiene is much appreciated by all massage therapists! As a rule, new sweat is no problem, old stale sweat is stinky. So, take a shower the morning before your massage and we’ll be friends.
DO NOT
be afraid to ask - Whether you want firmer or lighter pressure, you are too hot or too cold, you are uncomfortable in the way you are lying, you do not like a particular technique, or you need to go to the loo half way through your massage… the treatment is all about you, and our number one priority is your comfort and getting the absolute perfect treatment for you. So, do speak up, and do not feel you are being rude by doing so. We will not think you are a pain in the backside if you speak up once, twice or even a thousand times during your treatment.
QUIET is Perfect for my energy and work.
DO remain silent if you want to - Some people like to chat all through their treatment, and that is fine. But please do not feel you have to talk to fill the silence. We allow the client to lead the conversation, and will engage if we are talked to, however, many people like to just enjoy the massage without conversation and listen to soothing sounds to help relaxation. A good massage takes energy and concentration on the therapists' part, so do not feel bad if you do not talk for an hour, we are quite happy focusing on the work we are doing on your muscles.
THIS IS IMPORTANT: DO NOT
eat too much too soon before your massage - Just like swimming, it is best to wait an hour after eating before you have a massage. Massage has a great effect on getting the digestive system working, and to put it simply… it may save you the embarrassment of passing gas during your treatment. But that said, if you accidentally let one slip, it is completely natural and normal, so absolutely do not feel embarrassed.
DO
respect we are professionals - Although at some point during your treatment you may find our thumbs firmly planted in your buttocks or use techniques that involve a lot of contact… these are strictly approved professional massage techniques, and NO we do not provide ‘extras’!
DO NOT AVOID
OR be afraid to nod off - A good massage does have a very powerful relaxing effect and many clients do end up dozing off during their treatment, and that is fine. It is your body letting you have that bit of well-earned rest it is probably craving. Don’t worry about missing out on the enjoyment of a massage while in slumber land, the advantage is your muscles will be totally relaxed, allowing your therapist to really work into the muscles for maximum benefit
Follow these tips to make your massage appointment a great one, and just remember the massage is about YOU and YOUR comfort.
Thank you for reading and hope to see in the Intuitive Kneads Clinic soon.
Be Well,
KIM~
Tagged: Massage Therapy, What to expect, Massage Etiquette