Massage Etiquette for Women

 

Not too long ago I wrote an article about the massage etiquette for men, but what about women? Today I will be going over just that.

Massages are wonderful, but if you’re new to massage and just trying it out for the first time it can feel a little awkward having a stranger rubbing your semi-naked body.

It’s sort of an awkward scenario when you really think about it.

There has to be some unwritten rules about the whole experience right?

Indeed there are!

Your time will be far more enjoyable for both you and the therapist if you’re aware of this code of etiquette.

 

1. UNDERGARMENTS

Women tend to get a little uncomfortable when it comes to undressing for a massage.  Some studios offer disposable underwear that you can use but if not here are some options. You can wear a thong or no underwear. Ladies you’re not going to be judged for either one of these. As a matter of fact you are making it a lot easier for the massage therapist to do their job without having a lot of fabric getting in the way. And your going to be covered with a sheet for draping.

As for your bra? Consider stripping it off to avoid it getting in the way. Massage therapists see tons of bodies every day, and they’re there to work, not judge yours!

2.TAKE A SHOWER BEFOREHAND

This issue rarely happens with women but every so often it does. I know our days get busy but all the more reason to get cleaned up first before you going in for a massage. Not only will your massage therapist appreciate it but you will feel better as well.

3. DON’T FUSS OVER THE THERAPIST LOOKING AT YOU

I know it’s hard not to feel a little insecure when you are wearing barley anything or nothing at all. But that is why they provide draping to cover the glutes and chest (if you decide you would also like your front massaged). Like I said above they are there to work not to judge your body.

4. IF YOU’RE EARLY YOU’RE ON TIME, IF YOU’RE ON TIME YOU’RE LATE…

Before your appointment you’ll have to fill out some health background paperwork, and also talk with the therapist for just a couple minutes about what you’re looking for. Showing up right as your appointment starts means you are shorting yourself on massage time.

The rule of thumb is arrive 15 minutes early if you’re a first time client. If you’re a regular be 5 minutes early.

 

5. TURN OFF YOUR PHONE

This should go without saying. Nobody wants to hear a phone ring when they are in the middle off what’s supposed to be a relaxing massage. Even a vibration is noticeable during a massage.

So please turn your phone off, you will survive I promise.

 

6. COMMUNICATE

If something is uncomfortable let the massage therapist know. They normally ask in the beginning what type of pressure you like and if there are any parts of your body that you feel need more attention. If you don’t know what pressure you would like have them start out at medium pressure. From there you can determine whether you need softer or harder pressure.

Let the therapist know if there is any part of the body that you don’t want massaged. Most people are ticklish on their feet so be sure to let them know.

Do you need to make conversation?

That’s up to you, feedback is okay as well as small talk but don’t feel like you have to chat. You can if you want, but it’s fine if you want to lay in silence, close your eyes and listen to the music.

 

7. LEAVE A TIP

It’s pretty much expected to tip 15-20% these days, but some people don’t know that they should tip a massage therapist.

 

I hope this is helpful to you!

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Sources:

https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a19916724/massage-rules/

Photo by Samad Ismayilov from Pexels

Information pulled August 16, 2018