What to Expect When You Come for a Massage at Vibrant Life Therapies
What to Expect When You Get a Massage
Most people aren’t sure what to expect when they schedule their first massage. There is nothing to be nervous about! Although no two massages are alike, there are some things that are typical to each session. Generally, a massage session will take place in a quiet, comfortable room. It may be dimly lit with soothing music is often played to help you relax.
The Therapist will Assess Your Massage Needs
After introducing themselves, your practitioner will ask why you are seeking massage therapy, and inquire about any injuries or medical conditions you may have. They may also ask additional questions to gather information that can help improve your overall experience. Be honest with your practitioner – their role is to ensure that you have the most pleasant and successful session possible.
The Massage Therapist will then excuse themselves from the room.
This will allow you to privately disrobe to your level of comfort. You will then lie down on the table – either face up or face down – under the sheet, towel or cover provided. During your session, you will be draped (covered) at all times, and only the area being worked on will be exposed. A typical full body session includes your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, shoulders, and glutes . You may request that a therapist spend additional or less time on a specific area. Oil or lotion is often used, so be sure to tell the practitioner if you have any preferences or sensitivities.
During the massage, please make sure to communicate with your therapist about the pressure he or she is applying. Though many massage therapists can tell when they are using light or deep pressure, it is always good to let them know how you feel. The massage is all about you and your needs, so be sure to speak up if the pressure needs to be tweaked.
The Massage Therapist Will Leave the Room When Your Session Is Complete.
This is to allow you privacy to sit up slowly and take your time getting dressed.
Tips for After Your Massage
- Make sure to drink plenty of water.
- Book your next session according to your practitioner’s recommendation.
- Over the next few days, you may experience soreness if you requested a deep tissue massage.
- Make mental notes on how you feel so that you can communicate this to your massage therapist at your next session. It will help her adjust to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
A lot of people feel a little apprehensive about getting a massage. Here are some questions that people frequently wonder, but are usually too embarrassed to ask:
How Much Clothing Am I Supposed to Remove?
It really depends on the type of massage being received. The therapist should direct you before the session if specific clothes like sports bras, exercise shorts or gym shorts are recommended. For a Relaxation massage, many people prefer to keep their panties or briefs on during a massage, while others prefer to be completely nude. It’s up to you. If you aren’t sure and the therapist does not tell you at the start of the massage, ask what she recommends. They are asked this question regularly!
If your problem areas are your lower back, hips, buttocks, or groin, tight-fitting underwear can sometimes get in the way of massage work, but panties for women or briefs for men should do the trick.
Licensed massage therapists are required by law that you are always properly covered by a sheet or towel. Only the area being massaged will be uncovered.
Will the massage therapist be there when I undress?
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 therapist will direct you to either lay on your back or stomach.
Don’t rush or worry that the massage therapist will walk in on you — the massage therapist knocks and asks if you are ready before entering the massage room.
Should I talk during the massage?
Although 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, which is what most people do.
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
Am I supposed to tip?
If you get a massage at a spa or hotel, a 15% to 20% tip is standard if you were pleased with the services. On the other hand, there are no real ground rules or norms when it comes to massage in a medical setting. Most Massage Therapists appreciate a tip, especially if they are not the owner of the business.
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. If tipping isn’t the norm, you can always show your appreciation by referring friends, family and co-workers to the massage therapist.
What If I Need To Use The Restroom In the Middle of the Massage?
Often times, as the body and muscles are being manipulated; clients will have the urge to use the restroom. It is totally normal, so please tell your massage therapist. She will leave the room and allow you to use the restroom. It is much more preferable to take a short break in the massage than have you feel physically uncomfortable.
How Do I Know If It’s a Legitimate 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. If you’re trying a new clinic or spa, it’s a good idea to thoroughly check out their website, or even call first and ask these questions:
- Do you offer therapeutic massage?
- Is the massage therapist certified or licensed?
- Do you require a health questionnaire of your clients?
When you arrive at the massage location, the establishment should have each therapist’s license displayed in a prominent place. PA requires therapists to be licensed!
The pressure isn’t deep enough, but I don’t want to insult the therapist’s technique. What should I do?
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.
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.
I’m self-conscious about a certain part of my body and don’t want the therapist to see me. What can I do?
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. Massage therapists do not look at your outward appearance for judgment – although they may use that information to help them assess issues they may need to address during the session. They use their hands to feel what is happening underneath your skin.