Embarrassing Massage Questions

Do you tip? Are you supposed to be nude? Do you say anything if the pressure’s too deep or not deep enough? What if you’re self-conscious about your body?nnHere are the answers to massage questions you want to ask, but may be too embarrassed to.nnAm I supposed to tip my massage therapist?nnIf you get a massage at a spa or hotel, a 15% to 20% tip is standard if you were pleased with the services. If you’re not sure, don’t be afraid to ask if tipping is customary. You can call ahead to ask if you don’t want to do it face to face.nnAm I supposed to take off my underwear when I get a massage?nnMany people prefer to keep their panties or briefs on during a massage,nWhile others prefer to be completely nude. It’s up to you. Massage therapists must ensure that you are always properly covered by a sheet or towel. Only the area being massaged will be uncovered.nnWhat if I realize I’ve drooled during the massage?nnMany people fall into a peaceful slumber during the massage but when they wake up, they notice drool on the pillow or massage table.nThis is very common.nIt often happens when people are being massaged while lying face down on the massage table. Don’t be afraid to ask the massage therapist for a tissue.nnWill the massage therapist be there when I undress?nnThe massage therapist will leave the room so that you can remove your clothing and lie on the massage table (usually face down) under the top sheet. Don’t rush or worry that the massage therapist will walk in on you – the massage therapist always knocks and asks if you are ready before entering the massage room.nnShould I talk to the massage therapist during the massage?nnAlthough some people prefer to talk throughout the massage, don’t feel like you have to make conversation with the therapist.nAfter all, you’re having a treatment; you’re not at a party! Feel free to close your eyes and relax, which is what most people do. Deep tissue massage requires more feedback. The therapist works on deeper layers of muscle and will want to ensure that the pressure is not uncomfortable.nn Be sure to speak up if:nThe room is too hot or too cold.nYou experience pain.nYou have any questions related to the massage.nThere’s anything you forgot to mention during the consultation.nnI’m self-conscious about a certain part of my body and don’t want the massage therapist to see me.nWhat can I do?nnBeing self-conscious should never keep you from seeking health care. If you are self-conscious about a certain part of your body, you can ask the therapist to avoid that area.nnI don’t feel comfortable having a massage by a male therapist.nnThis may be due to outdated social and media stereotypes of the profession. Unfortunately, men who choose to become massage therapists are often unprepared for the discrimination they face. When clients request female over male therapists, spas stop hiring them, however skilled they are. That’s why I believe it’s important to challenge your preconceptions.nnnShane Steffins is a Certified Massage Therapist. As owner of Relax Massage, based in Dawsonville, Georgia, Shane helps people who want relaxation by providing stress relief, increased circulation of blood an lymph flow, relief of tight muscles, and reduction of pain in the body thru massage therapy. He is a member of the AMTA (American Massage Therapy Association). If you have any massage therapy questions, please contact Shane at 770-561-6156 or relaxdawson@yahoo.com and visit www.relaxdawson.com.nn