Have you HAD a massage but it wasn't what you expected?
These answers will relieve your uneasiness about getting a massage!
NUMBER ONE:
What can I do if I'm self-conscious about a certain part of my body and don't want the massage therapist to see me?
People are self-conscious for various reasons. Some of the more common concerns are:
I'm overweight.
I have excessive hair growth on my body.
I've got acne on my face or back.
My feet are ugly.
I have scars.Being self-conscious should never keep you from seeking health care, whether it's visiting your doctor or seeing a massage therapist. If you're self-conscious about a certain part of your body, you can ask the massage therapist to avoid that area. Or, you can opt for a therapy that is done through clothing, such as shiatsu or Thai massage.
Because no massage oil or lotion is used, you remain fully clothed during the session. If you feel too embarrassed to speak directly about the reason you are self-conscious, you can opt indicate this on your massage preferences form.
NUMBER TWO:
How do I know if it's a legitimate massage clinic?
Although you might think massage parlors that offer sensual or erotic massage may look obviously seedy, it can be sometimes be difficult to spot these places. Today many social sites provide you with instant access to client comments / reviews. You should be able to distinguish a legitimate massage therapist by these comments / reiviews.
If you're still doubtful, it's a good idea to call first and ask these questions:
- Do you offer therapeutic massage?
- Is the massage therapist certified / licensed?
- Do you require a health questionnaire of your clients?
NUMBER THREE:
Will the massage therapist be there when I undress?
In North America, the massage therapist will leave the room so that you can remove your clothing and lie on the massage table UNDER the top sheet. The massage therapist always knocks and asks if you are ready before entering the massage room, so you shouldn't worry that the massage therapist will walk in on you.
NUMBER FOUR:
Am I supposed to take off my underwear when I get a massage?
Some people prefer to keep their under garments on during a massage, while others prefer to be completely nude. It's up to you. An experienced massage thrapist will be able to adapt to your preference. Keep in mind, however, if your problem areas are your lower back, hips, buttocks, or groin, tight-fitting underwear can sometimes get in the way of massage work. In North America, if you do remove your underwear, licensed massage therapists must ensure that you are always properly covered by a sheet or towel. Only the area being massaged will be uncovered.
NUMBER FIVE:
What if I get an erection during the massage?
Believe it or not, some men refuse to get massage therapy because they worry that they'll get an erection.
Or they get the massage, but are unable to relax during the massage because of this fear.
The good news is, you're not abnormal if this happens. Here's the biology of it...
The parasympathetic nervous system can be activated when massage therapy is being administered, which can send signals causing a partial or full erection. Typically, simply KNOWING this fact causes enough relaxation to bypass the occurance. Over time the body becomes familiar with the process of massage therapy and it is no longer an issue.
In the beginning, however, you need not fear or become embarrassed, your massage therapist (male or female) understands this and will not call any attention to its occurance. If you are still worried, you may wish to wear a men's bikini bathing suit during the massage, which provides more support than boxers.
NUMBER SIX:
What if I realize I've drooled during the massage?
I've had this happen on many occasions, so you certainly won't be the first!
Many people fall into a peaceful slumber during the massage but when they wake up, they notice a pool of drool on the pillow or massage table. This is very common. It often happens when people are being massaged while lying face down on the massage table. Don't be afraid to ask the massage therapist for a tissue.
NUMBER SEVEN:
How do I express to my massage therapist that thier technique / pressure isn't right for me, without insulting them?
Yes, the massage therapist has studied this art and you rely on them to be the expert, but everyone has a different experience of touch. What works for one individual does not necesarrily translate to the next. A professional massage therapist EXPECTS your feedback so they can adapt to your personal needs. It is encouraged that you communicate openly with the massage therapist. Keep in mind however that it's a myth that massage therapy has to hurt to be effective! Some of the most effective types of massage therapy are gentle and do not involve deep pressure or pain. In fact, too much pressure can cause muscles to seize up. Regarding pressure, here is a good rule of thumb -- on a scale of one to 10 where one is no pain and 10 is extremely painful, the pressure should always be less than seven. When you completing you initial intake forms for a new therapist, remember to provide complete and accurate information regarding your health history & massage preferences, so that the massage therapist is aware of any precautions or contraindications.
NUMBER EIGHT:
Is it appropriate to ask for certain gender massage therapist?
You should feel comfortable during your treatment so this is a very important question!
Unfortunately, men who choose to become massage therapists are often unprepared for the discrimination they face. When clients request female over male therapists, spas stop hiring them, however skilled they are. Women therapists are also discriminated against because of the myth they will not be strong enough for deeper massage work.
It may be due to outdated social and media stereotypes of the profession, but some men don’t feel comfortable having a massage by a male massage therapist. While some women also prefer a female massage therapist because they say they feel more comfortable. Believe it or not this doesn't just apply to massage therapy. A University of Michigan study found that 43 percent of women preferred a female doctor for a colonoscopy. Of these women, 87 percent said they would be willing to wait more than 30 days to get an appointment with a female colonoscopist, and 14 percent would be willing to pay more for one. I say, don't short change yourself! I believe it's important to challenge your preconceptions. Here are some tips to help you expand your ability to get skilled therapy REGARDLESS of gender:
- Have a consultation with the massage therapist before you book the appointment to become better acquainted and comfortable with them as a professional, caring technician that is commited to your health and well-being.
- Start with an active form of massage, such as deep tissue or sports massage or a type of massage that is done fully clothed, such as shiatsu or Thai massage.
What is a good tip for my massage therapist?
The answer to this question can be a little tricky. Generally speaking, when you are receiving a service the normal 15% to 20% tip is standard if you were pleased with the services applies. When it comes to massage services the tip can be calculated by the price of the service or the duration of your session. If you have received a promotional rate you will want to calculate your tip according to the normal rate the service is offered. If you are using time a your scale a “good” tip will range from $5-$10 PER thirty minute segments. If your treatment is being delivered in a clinical / medical setting such as a hospital, it is likely that no tip appropriate. Tips can come in the form of your referrals! Any massage therapist will be grateful when show your appreciation by referring friends, family and co-workers. If you're not sure, don't be afraid to ask if tipping is customary. You can call ahead to ask if you don't want to do it face to face.
NUMBER TEN:
Should I talk to the massage therapist during the massage?
Conversation can sometimes be a point of contention, because some clients like to talk during a session while others prefer silence. It's up to YOU to dictate this aspect. Talking is permitted, especially when it helps to destress. Talking is encouraged when something is "off" about the massage or when trying to distinguish the cause of a symptom. Although talking does not inhibit the execution of the massage it may detract from receiving the maximum benefits of your session. I will only initiate conversation if I need clarification/feedback, UNLESS you have requested absolute silence. Even though some people prefer to talk throughout the massage, don't feel like you HAVE TO make conversation with the massage therapist. After all, you're having a treatment, you're not at a cocktail party! Feel free to close your eyes and relax. Deep tissue massage and sports massage are just some of the types of massage that require more feedback. The massage therapist often works on deeper layers of muscle and will want to ensure that the pressure is not uncomfortable. Be sure to speak up if:
- the room is too hot or too cold
- you experience pain
- you have any questions related to the massage
- there's anything you forgot to mention during the consultation
I hope my answers have been helpful!
Cheers,
Yvonne L Larson | LA's Neck Work Expert
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