Proper Massage Therapy Etiquette

Feb 11, 2024

Are you looking into a relaxing massage for Spring? Get ready to unwind and enjoy, but before you do, there’s a few things to keep in mind when it comes to proper massage etiquette. Knowing is half the battle, so we’re going to help you get ready for that wonderfully incredible massage you’ve been wanting to get.

Communicate, Communicate, Communicate!

 

If you feel any discomfort or if you have questions, don’t ever hesitate to speak up and let your therapist know. They want you to be comfortable and relaxed during your massage, but if you don’t communicate with your therapist, you could be missing out.  The ultimate goal is to enjoy the experience, so if you’re not comfortable or something is painful, communicate!

Don’t Be Late! (Or Too Early)

 

You want to be certain to give yourself enough time to complete any paperwork, but don’t show up too early, otherwise you could end up waiting on your therapist to finish another massage. Ideally, you want to arrive about ten minutes before your appointment time.  And if you think you may be late to your massage, be sure to call your therapist to let them know as soon as possible.

Talk The Talk

 

There are quite a number of terms that are outdated or just offensive to massage therapists. While it may be fine in some countries, in the US it can make everything very uncomfortable if you slip and use the wrong terminology.

  1. Your massage therapist is just that. A therapist. Not a masseuse. A massage therapist spent time to study and get certified to become a licensed therapist. Most of the time, this is not the case for a masseuse.
  2. When you go to be seen by a massage therapist, everything is professional. Massage therapy isn’t sexual in nature and so when you call the “table” a “bed” it can make a therapist uncomfortable.
  3. Clinic, Practice, Office, or Spa. Don’t Call it a Massage Parlor! Massage Parlor indicates that you’re seeing a masseuse, and you already know how a massage therapist might take this.

 

Don’t Smoke Before an Appointment

 

You should refrain from smoking prior to your appointment. Why? Because smoke is something that quite a large number of people have a sensitivity to or even an allergy to. Additionally, the smell can stick around for a very long time before dissipating. Most therapists like for their treatment rooms to smell clean and fresh. So it’s best to be mindful of others, and just wait until after your massage has ended to smoke.

 

Are you excited to enjoy your first massage from a licensed therapist? We hope so, and now you’re all set to embark on the adventure and enjoy your massage!

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