What to do and not to do in a massage session:

Are you considering getting a massage? Before you get on the table, there are a few rules of massage etiquette you should abide by.

1. Do not address a massage therapist as a "masseuse" :

Massage therapists have worked really hard to rid the misconception that asking for a "happy ending" is acceptable. Most therapists if not all agree that the word "masseuse" is not just insulting, it's a misunderstanding of what we do.

2. Shower before getting a massage:

Showering before a massage helps the body to relax and it's a courtesy to the therapist. 

3. Pay attention to your feet:

Make sure your feet are clean before coming into a session. We don't want to be touching dirt or spreading it all over you.

4. Do not be concerned if your legs are hairy:

We work on bodies all the time. To us, a body is a body is a body. It's not going to be an issue for us, it shouldn't be an issue for you.

5. Do NOT get a massage if you are sick:

This rule is VERY important. Massage is a way to detox, but not when you are sick. The illness in your body will most likely get worse if you get a massage plus you can pass it to the massage therapist as well. If we get sick, we can't work. Practicing massage while sick has the same effect as a client receiving a massage that is sick.

6. Anticipate a glute massage:

This area can be worked on or skipped depending on the massage therapist. We prefer to ask and leave that up to the client. If you don't wish for this area to be worked on, tell us or keep your underwear on.

7. Communicate with the massage therapist:

There are some medical situations we look out for when working on a client. Sometimes, massage therapy isn't always a good idea. Be upfront about any medical issues that you may have. You know your body better than we do.

8. Don't tell us too much:

You are there to relax and unwind. Any personal issues that aren't medically involved need to stay to yourself. If that's how you unwind, that's fine. However, if needed we will redirect the conversation back to the session.

9. Tipping:

I prefer to leave this one last. Tipping is entirely up to the client. It's not necessary, but much appreciated.

I found this article in Elle Beauty and was written by Cheryl Wischhover. However, I did re-word a great deal of it and felt like these issues need to be addressed with clients who have or haven't received a massage.