Let’s be honest, there are a lot of misconceptions around what massage therapy appointments include or don’t include. It’s natural to have some questions about what to do (and not do) during a massage. We also understand that it’s not always easy to broach the topic. Below we cover the dos and don’ts of massage etiquette, along with some best practices for appointments at Kamati Wellness.
Massage Etiquette Dos:
1. DO undress to your comfort level
When you are on the table, dress down to your comfort level. Most people choose to go buff as sheets protect your dignity and keep your body warm during the session.
If you are coming in for a bodywork or Thai massage session, we recommend wearing something comfortable and stretchy on the legs, e.g. leggings or joggers, and avoid wearing belts, jeans, pants/shorts without any stretch or lots of pockets. Loose top or sports bra.
2. DO avoid inappropriate topics
Regardless of your familiarity with your therapist, some topics should always be off-limits. Topics include:
- religion
- politics
- sexual commentary
3. DO stay hygienic
Take a shower before your appointment. Your massage therapist uses professional grade products that are best absorbed through clean skin.
4. DO respect the professional space
At some point during your session, you may find thumbs firmly planted in your buttocks or techniques that involve a lot of contact; these are strictly approved professional massage techniques.
Please also keep in mind that joking about “happy-endings” or “extras” might seem funny, but it isn’t. At best, you’ll offend your therapist, at worst you’ll be banned from further appointments.
Massage Etiquette Don’ts:
1. DON’T assume your therapist knows how you’re feeling
Your massage therapist needs to know about any health changes. Massage therapy directly impacts all body systems including circulatory, nervous, digestive, and muscular. A therapist needs to know about changes to medical conditions, injury status, and overall state of health to be aware of contraindications and modifications to bodywork.
During your massage, be sure to speak up about pressure levels, anything that is causing pain, and even if you’re feeling cold or too warm.
2. DON’T worry about body hair
Massage therapists are trained professionals. Don’t worry about the state of your body hair besides being clean and hygienic. Often, shaving the day of your appointment can lead to post-massage skin irritation.
3. DON’T be body conscious
Massage therapists are trained muscle experts. We understand that muscles come in all shapes and sizes. Our priority is making sure that your body is moving and performing to its highest capacity, helping you relieve any stress or pain.
4. DON’T eat too soon before your appointment
Getting a massage is like swimming, we recommend not eating anything for at least an hour before your appointment. Massage encourages blood flow throughout the body. If you eat shortly before your appointment, the massage will encourage blood flow away from your core and disrupt digestion.
How to Prepare for Your Massage at Kamati Wellness
1. Show up 5-10 minutes early
Arriving 5-10 minutes ahead of your scheduled appointment guarantees we’ll utilize your allocated time for treatment. Please also keep in mind that by being late, you potentially impact other client appointments, and you will have time cut-off your massage.
2. Be considerate if you can’t make your scheduled appointment
Please do not “no call, no show” if you can’t make your appointment. It shows a distinct lack of respect for our therapist’s time. Please let us know as soon as possible if you will be unable to make your scheduled appointment. Kamati Wellness has a 24-hour cancellation policy that is enforced. Also, please do not show up sick!! Cancel your appointment if you are not feeling well. You do not want to get the therapist or other clients sick. Keep in mind that if the therapist gets sick, no one can get a massage.
Cancellation Policy: If you cancel less than 24 hours before your appointment, you will be charged the full amount for the treatment or forfeit the gift certificate you were given.
3. Pay attention to any stressors or pain points you want addressed
Not every massage is the same. Make sure you share any updates about stressors or pain points you’re experiencing. We want to make sure that those issues are addressed and discussed during your massage.
4. Wear comfortable clothing
Ideally, after your massage you’ll be relaxed and loose. Plan to wear something comfortable and easy to get in and out of. It can be a hassle to get into tight or structured clothing after your massage.
5. Hydrate
Massage naturally helps your body eliminate toxins. Staying hydrated before and after your massage will help your body flush the toxins and keep you from feeling too sore. Avoid beverages high in caffeine or with alcohol for the first 24 hours after your appointment.
If there are any other massage etiquette topics that you have questions about, feel free to ask your therapist. We want you to be comfortable.
Ready for a massage? Book your appointment with Kamati Wellness now!