Getting a massage, whether in Waterloo, Oshawa, or Toronto, has a plethora of benefits for everyone. It reduces pain, boosts your quality of sleep, and reduces stress. A massage therapist will knead your body to remove those knots and worries.
However, if you’re new to the massage scene, you may have certain questions like: How many clothes should I remove? How often should I talk? Should I leave a tip? The uncertainty makes others hesitant about getting a luxurious and relaxing treat.
For some people, it can be a little scary to think about a complete stranger rubbing your half-naked body for an hour or two, which brings us to the question: Are there some unwritten rules about the entire massage experience? Fortunately, there are.
Whether you’re a massage newbie or a massage connoisseur, there are massage etiquette rules that you need to follow to make the most of the massage experience. Here are 12 massage etiquette rules for you:
Quick Tip: Do you prefer a male or female massage therapist? Others feel weird and uncomfortable if someone who is not their significant other touches them. Some men and women find it akin to cheating if they have therapists of the opposite sex. Just keep in mind that massage therapy is not a sexual thing but about relaxation. So, there’s really no problem at all with having a male or female therapist giving you a massage as long as it makes you comfortable and it gives you the best massage experience.
12 Massage Etiquette Rules That You Should Know
That being said, all you need to put in mind is the things you should expect during the therapy — especially the things that you need to observe during the entire treatment to have the best massage experience.
- Don’t Make an Effort
The first things you need to remember when getting a massage is that you don’t need to wear full makeup (it will only get smudged), don’t shower your perfume (it will overpower the small room), don’t wear jewelry (it will get in the way) and don’t make a great hair fix (it will get greasy and messed up).
- Wear Comfortable Clothes
Believe it or not, you can wear whatever makes you feel comfortable. However, most massages need you to be naked for better treatment. However, if you’re uncomfortable without some clothes on, you won’t be able to keep your mind calm. Just tell your therapist if you want to be fully clothed during the experience.
- Be On Time
Ensure that you’re on time with your appointment. Your therapists have other appointments during the day and being late can knock off their schedule. Don’t be too early as well. It’s better to arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your appointed time.
- Arrive Clean
Shower before you enter the room. Clean yourself and make sure your skin isn’t stinky, dirty, or greasy so the essential oils will take their full effect.
- Be Honest
If you are experiencing health issues at the moment, let your therapist know so they would know how to work better. In some circumstances, massage might not be the best option. If you have some allergies to oils or creams, inform your therapist ahead to avoid getting sick.
- Keep an Open Communication
Don’t be too shy to tell your therapist if you want a lighter or firmer pressure, if you feel too cold or too hot, or even if you feel uncomfortable with your position. Remember, the treatment is for you, so voice out your concerns.
- Use The Proper Terminology
It’s essential to get educated on some terminologies to avoid offending your therapist. For instance, learn the difference between a massage therapist and a masseuse. A massage therapist is licensed and a masseuse is not. Also, in the industry, it’s called a table and not a bed.
- Turn Off Your Phone
It’s just completely obnoxious to receive texts, calls, and alarms while going through a nice and relaxing massage. To avoid getting disturbed from your luxurious treat, put your phone in vibrate mode or just turn it off.
- Don’t Worry About Body Hair
Massage therapists don’t care about your hairy armpits, backs, legs, and other hairy parts of your body. So, don’t feel embarrassed.
- Don’t Eat Before the Massage
It is highly recommended by massage therapists to not eat heavy meals 30 minutes before your massage. If you do so, it will have a negative impact on your digestive system and you might just end up passing gas throughout your treatment. It’s best to wait for an hour after a meal before you start your massage.
- Never Ask for Sexual Favours
This should be obvious, but not all people understand this. Not even joking about it. You’ll only end up offending your therapists. Your therapists are licensed, they have spent years of education and training. Consider them as a nurse. Would you ask your nurse sexual favours?
- Leave a Tip
In some cases, leaving a tip isn’t required or necessary. However, it is standard to leave a 15% to 20% tip if you are satisfied with your massage treatment. If you don’t have cash, a gift certificate will do as well.
Whether you’ve been thinking of going for massage therapy in Oshawa or Toronto, now that you know what’s expected of you, all you have to do is enjoy the experience!
