What Is Proper Massage Etiquette

Letting someone knead your worries away seems like the perfect way to simply relax or even reduce chronic pain. But if you have scheduled a massage appointment, you may be unsure of what to expect and what the proper etiquette is for a massage. Such as which massage is right for you? Should you wear underwear or not wear underwear? Tip or no tip?

Following a few general massage etiquette rules can help you get the most out of your massage and ensure a positive experience. Read on for our guide to massage do’s and don’ts.

Massage Etiquette Do’s and Don’ts

Do Be Prepared

Take a shower prior to your appointment because would you really want to rub down someone who stinks? If you are going to a massage parlor that offers table showers you may not have to worry about showering as much as you can book your table shower prior to your massage appointment. Be sure to arrive on time for your scheduled appointment – in fact, arrive 5 minutes early so you can have a few minutes in the tranquility lounge to start getting in a relaxed mindset. Doing so will allow you to take advantage of the full amount of time allotted for your massage. Leave a few minutes to fill out any necessary paperwork or update any records.

Do Schedule the Right Type of Massage

When it comes to massages you have a few options such as deep tissue, Swedish, Shiatsu, Asian, soft and four hand massages.

Swedish Massage: the most common type of massage and focuses on gentle, smooth strokes, and kneading. It is very light and relaxing.
Deep Tissue Massage: focuses on the deepest layer of muscles to target knots and release chronic muscle tension. These massages tend to have more intense pressure. If you are looking to simply relax during your massage this is probably not the right option for you.
Soft Massage: uses softer, slower, and more relaxing touch to manipulate parts of the body without using pressure or pain.
Shiatsu or Japanese Massage: focuses on evening out your energy to balance your body by using localized finger pressure on various pressure points around the body. It is like acupuncture but with fingers.
Asian Massage: focuses on releasing the stress of everyday life with a full body massage. This massage is designed to pamper and purify with special focus on the body areas that receive the hardest stress in daily life.
Four Hand Massage: this can be any type of massage, typically Swedish, but is done by 2 massage therapists instead of a single therapist.

Do Speak Up

Talking to your massage therapist will help you to have the very best experience possible. Begin by telling her about any surgeries that you have had or any injuries that you have sustained. If it also important to let your therapist know the level of pressure you would like during your massage. Learning a bit more about your body’s history will help your therapist to determine the best course of treatment. In addition, be sure to speak up during your massage if something doesn’t feel right or is not to your liking. Your masseuse can adjust their technique or the amount of pressure they are using as needed.

Do Plan on No Underwear

Underwear are not ideal when getting a massage. During the massage, you are draped with a sheet or blanket and as your massage therapist moves to rubbing down different areas of your body, she will adjust the drape as needed to keep the areas of your body not being focused on covered.

Do Plan On Tipping

Most massage centers do not have tips included in the price of the massage. It is proper to give 15-20% of the cost of the massage (based on full price if you getting a discounted massage) as a tip to your masseuse.

Don’t Drink Alcohol Prior to Your Appointment

Don’t drink or take narcotics in the 24 hours prior to your appointment. Not only will you not be able to fully enjoy your massage if you are under the influence, but it can also be both dangerous and unpleasant for you and your massage therapist.

Getting a massage for the first time while exciting can also cause anxiety if you do not know the proper massage etiquette. Hopefully, our do’s and don’ts of massage etiquette helped ease your anxiety and get you prepared for your massage.

For the best in New York City area massages, contact West Garden Spa at 347.756.7136. We provide excellent Asian massage services in a soothing and serene setting. Call to schedule an appointment today!