Am I Doing This Right?
You’re laying on the warm table, clean linens draped over you, soft ambient music playing… You’re about to receive a massage. And the minute your massage therapist (hopefully me, but I’m biased) makes contact with your body, your mind starts racing…
Am I doing this right? Should I be breathing deeper? Should I help move my arm? Can I itch my nose? What if I need to sneeze? Shoot, now I need to pee.
No? Just me? Okay, well just in case you ever find yourself in one of these thought patterns, read on :)I am here to tell you that first and foremost, however you show up on my table is absolutely perfect and wonderful. No matter if you’re fidgety, talkative, still as a stone statue, quiet as the tooth fairy—you are absolutely perfect as you are!
However, if you’re someone (like me) who thrives on a little bit of guidelines and soft expectations, I am here to give you just that!
Massage Etiquette
(a gentle suggestion, not a requirement)
What should I do with my hands?
Nothing. Seriously. Do nothing. Let me move your arms. Let me move your legs. You just be the most limp, wet noodle you can be. And enjoy it! How many other times in your life do you get to just surrender to someone else moving your body and worrying about where your limbs are in space? Relish in this opportunity!
What should I do with my breathing?
For starters, please breathe. Holding your breath signals to me that the pressure may be too much, and I will adjust to that cue, but I would much rather you tell me what adjustments you need in the moment. Holding your breath will also cause your body to tense, making it hard for you to receive the work that we are doing.
My personal recommendation for the breath during a massage is to inhale deeply but gently, and on your slow exhale, melt into the table. This will help your muscles relax, your nervous system to downregulate, and your body will be more receptive to my touch.
I have an itch! What do I do?! *Cue existential panic*
Just itch it :) Even if you itch it 27 times, it doesn’t bother me. If you’re itchy, you won’t be able to relax, and I’d much rather you be comfortable.
I have to sneeze/cough/expel a hairball!
If you have hairballs, please consult a doctor (or vet?) immediately. But for all others, just use common courtesy and try to cover your sneeze/cough. I have tissues in the office, and I am more than happy to grab one for you while you’re on the table.
We are halfway through the massage, and I have to pee!!!
That’s the worst. I’ve been there. I keep a robe (that is washed after each use) on hand for clients to use if we need to get up mid-session for a potty break—especially handy for my prenatal clients! Again, your comfort is my priority, and I have no problem accommodating any needs that arise!
Are there any other “etiquette” curiosities that you’ve though of that you don’t see her? Ask about them in the comments or send me an email!
