Etiquette for Massage Clients
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of a good massage: the soothing music, the gentle touch of the therapist’s hands, and the release of built-up tension and stress. But with great power comes great responsibility, and as a massage client, it’s important to be mindful of the etiquette and expectations involved.
After all, a massage is a two-way street: the therapist is providing a service, but you also have a role to play in ensuring the experience is enjoyable for both parties.
Showering before massage
Hygiene is key when it comes to receiving a massage. No one wants to be contending with BO, dirty clothes, yellow stains, or even, dare we say it, a chunk of sh*t (yes, it happens! ).
That’s why it’s crucial to make sure you’re clean and presentable before your session. A quick shower or bath beforehand is always a good idea, as it not only washes away any odors or sweat but also helps to relax and warm up your muscles.
Plus, it’s just common courtesy.
Inappropriate behavior by patrons
It should go without saying, but it’s important to stress: inappropriate behavior has no place in a massage studio. This includes everything from grinding, frisky behavior, kissing, and grabbing, to making unwanted advances towards the therapist.
Not only is it disrespectful and uncomfortable, but it can also be mistaken for a seedy establishment and damage the reputation of the studio. Remember that the therapist is there to provide a professional service, not a sexual one.
Professional draping
Professional draping is another important aspect of massage etiquette. In most cases, therapists will use sheets or towels to drape over areas of your body that are not being worked on.
This not only protects your modesty but also provides a barrier that ensures proper hygiene and cleanliness. Always follow the therapist’s instructions when it comes to draping, as it not only shows respect for their professionalism and expertise but also ensures your safety and comfort.
And whatever you do, please don’t leave any surprises (ahem, semen) on the table.
Challenges Faced by Massage Therapists
While receiving a massage might seem like a pure indulgence from your end, it’s important to understand the challenges that massage therapists face on a daily basis. From difficult clients to maintaining professionalism, here are some of the common obstacles they have to navigate.
Dealing with unhygienic clients
As we mentioned earlier, hygiene is crucial when it comes to massage. Unfortunately, not all clients take this as seriously as they should.
From body odor to dirty clothes, and even unwelcome bodily functions, some therapists have had to deal with some pretty uncomfortable situations. So, do your therapist a favor and make sure you’re clean and presentable before your session.
Trust us, they’ll thank you for it.
Inappropriate behavior by patrons
Inappropriate behavior is not only uncomfortable for the recipient but also for the therapist. They’re providing a service and deserve to be treated with the respect and dignity that their role requires.
To ensure a safe and comfortable experience for everyone involved, always keep your behavior professional and appropriate.
Striving to maintain professionalism
A massage therapist’s job is not just about rubbing muscles; it’s a highly skilled profession that requires extensive training and expertise. They’re experts in anatomy, physiology, and different massage techniques, and they work hard to provide a service that leaves you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.
But maintaining professionalism can be challenging, especially when clients are difficult or behave inappropriately. So, do your therapist a favor and be respectful of their expertise and professionalism.
In summary, receiving a massage is a wonderful way to invest in yourself, but it’s important to remember that it’s a two-way street. By following proper etiquette, respecting your therapist’s professionalism, and being mindful of your behavior, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
And that’s what we call a win-win. Massage therapy is meant to provide physical and mental relaxation and rejuvenation, but sometimes, things can take a turn for the unexpected, bizarre, or downright strange.
Clients with unusual requests or situations
As massage therapists, we expect to encounter all kinds of clients with different needs and requests. However, some requests can be unusual and even bizarre.
- One therapist recalls a client with a pus-filled blister that popped during the massage, causing a gush of fluid to squirt on her hands.
- Another therapist was given a diamond tennis bracelet as a thank-you gift from a wealthy client.
- One therapist found out the hard way that not all clients stick to a regular schedule. She had booked an appointment with a client based on his rotating work schedule, only to find out that he had accidentally double-booked himself with another therapist on the same day.
- And then there are the cases of mistaken identity. One therapist recalled a client who had mistakenly booked a session with her, thinking she was a different therapist he had seen previously.
Awkward!
Awkward moments during massage
It’s not uncommon for awkward moments to happen during a massage, even with the best of intentions. Some of these moments can be downright uncomfortable for both the therapist and the client.
- One therapist recalls a client who let out a loud “glurp” noise as she was working on his back, causing them both to burst out laughing.
- Another therapist remembers a client with a lustful look in his eyes who accidentally grazed her breast during the massage.
- And then there are the moments when the client’s face ends up uncomfortably close to sensitive areas. One therapist recalls a male client who shifted his weight during a face-down massage, causing his face to accidentally end up in an awkward position near her crotch.
Awkward, indeed!
Funny and embarrassing incidents
Massage therapists have seen it all, including some pretty funny and embarrassing incidents.
- One therapist tells the story of a client who left a load of semen on the table, causing quite the challenge when it came to cleaning up.
- Another therapist recalls a client who turned out to be a “bunny boiler,” confessing her love for the therapist and begging her to run away with her.
- And then there are the strange smells that can emanate from a client. One therapist recalls a client whose breath smelled like hot dogs, making it difficult to work in close proximity. Another therapist had to deal with a client whose feet smelled like cheese.
Yikes!
Conclusion
While massage therapy is meant to provide relaxation and rejuvenation, it’s not always smooth sailing. From unusual client requests to awkward moments and embarrassing incidents, massage therapists have seen it all.
However, despite the challenges, most therapists approach their work with a sense of humor and a commitment to professionalism. At the end of the day, the goal is to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
In conclusion, understanding proper etiquette as a massage client is essential for a successful and enjoyable session. This includes showering beforehand, behaving professionally and respectfully, and following the therapist’s instructions for draping.
On the other hand, massage therapists face challenges such as dealing with unhygienic clients, maintaining professionalism, and navigating awkward situations. Finally, while bizarre or funny experiences can arise, most massage therapists approach their work with a sense of humor and a commitment to providing safe and relaxing services.
By keeping these points in mind, clients and therapists alike can ensure a positive massage experience.
