Hey Everyone! Tasha here. This will be a continuation of the previous post discussing common questions or concerns about the massage environment and other helpful information. Let's jump right in! Q: Should I talk during the massage? A: There will be some level of communication that does need to happen. This would include letting the therapist know if the pressure, table heat, music volume, or other controllable aspects to the service are at the level that works for you. They also may need to ask for specific feedback for a stretch or certain treatment to make sure it is achieving the right results. However, you are not required or expected to chit chat with your massage therapist the entire time. You are in charge of the level of discussion and can at any time request that it end or start it back up. Also, be aware that it can be uncomfortable or even inappropriate to ask your massage therapist personal questions and they can choose not to answer or even to end the session early if they feel harassed in any way. Q: What if I forgot or don't have time to shave? A: Nothing to worry about at all! Shaving or not shaving does not affect the massage or bother the massage therapist in any way. Once the lotion or oil is applied the level of hair in an area is not an issue. Massage therapists work on all types of bodies- short or tall, male or female, shaved or unshaved. Feel free to let go of the stress and enjoy your treatment! Q: What body parts will not be massaged? A: There are actually three categories of answers to this question. The first would involve the areas that are never worked and are illegal (against the law for a licensed massage therapist to work). In this case, the areas that would never be included in a massage are breast tissue, genitalia, and the anus. The second category includes areas that would be contraindicated (unadvisable to treat with massage therapy). These would be areas such as the front of the neck, front of the elbows, back of the knees where there are vulnerable blood vessels and arteries. There are also certain areas specific to an individual that may fall into this category such as burns, deep cuts, recent blood clots, or anything contagious. The third category would be areas that permission or request may be needed beforehand which may include the face, abdomen, upper pec, scalp, or muscles accessed by the armpit. Such areas are okay to some and not to others so they tend to be included on a case by case basis or by request. Q: How often should I get a massage?
A: It depends on your goals and priorities! If massage is something you do to de-stress and relax then you can schedule one as often as your time and finances allow. If it is a routine you have for general health and maintenance, then it seems that every 4-6 weeks is a good timeframe for most. However if you have a chronic issue that is a priority for you to resolve to have the quality of life you desire, then you may consider every 1-2 weeks until the physical concern diminishes to a maintenance level. If you are not sure which option is best for your situation communicate with your massage therapist to come up with a plan customized to your needs. Q: How much should I tip? A: While a tip is not required, it is a part of the culture in the massage environment in the united states and generally expected if the service was good. It is your opportunity to show appreciation for the excellent work your massage therapist provided at the level you are able. A typical rule of thumb for gratuity in the service industry is around 20% of the service cost. If you have a question, ask! If you have a concern, speak up! In 95% of cases when someone is disappointed or frustrated with how a massage session went, it could have been avoided with better communication. Until next time, may you have the highest quality of life possible! Tasha Ouderkirk, LMT, Business Owner
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May 2023
CategoriesNothing on this blog is to substitute for proper medical advice from your doctor and is not intended to diagnose or cure any disease. Always seek the advice of a qualified medical physician if you have any questions about a specific diagnosis or disease
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