Getting a massage from someone new is always a gamble.
I cannot tell you how many times I have gone to get a massage, explained in detail to my massage therapist what was bothering me, and they would focus everywhere except the place I was sore. I agree, in some cases, that it is important to also massage the areas around the specific sore area because the muscles are interconnected. However, I know what also works for my body and what doesn’t. Over the years of frustration and feeling not heard by my massage therapists, I decided to be very picky and get referrals and even start going to the massage teachers, not students, at massage schools. There are a lot of mediocre massage therapists out there especially at the generic chain massage shops. Not that there aren’t any good ones, but I have just experienced my worst massages in those environments.
I typically enjoy medical, deep tissue massage. Once in while, I love a great soft massage because that helps me relax my mind. If you’re like me, I want to tell you that it is OK to ask your massage therapist questions and give her feedback. Yes, even during the session. A good massage therapist isn’t just the way they massage, but also the way they communicate with their clients. It is important that both parties are communicating fluidly so that you can get the most out of your time and money.
Personally, I like to know what training my massage therapist has had. If I want deep tissue and they tell me they have taken 5 classes of energy work and 1 massage class, I’m probably going to be looking elsewhere at that point. If they use words like deep tissue, PNF stretching, sports massage, shiatsu, or Thai massage, I am going for it. The more classes I know they have taken, the more I know they are familiar with their anatomy. I am not looking to get hurt more, which has happened. I am looking for salvation from my sore and tired body!
It’s not 100% the case where people, who take more classes, are better. Some people are naturally gifted with touch and can follow muscles without having taken a single class but don’t take that chance!
Conclusion
- Don’t be afraid to interview your massage therapist
- Take responsibility for your needs by communicating with your massage therapist (what they don’t know hurts you)
- It’s important for you to be and feel heard by your massage therapist
- With all the above, you empower yourself and your massage therapist in your session
I once received a massage in Thailand that hurt like mad. I didn’t tell her and ended up with a bruise that covered my whole leg. The reason I didn’t tell her was because I am British and don’t like to complain in some customer service situations like receiving a massage. Another good example is when I have received a sub-standard meal at a restaurant. I will be asked if the food was good and I will say yes despite wanting to tell them that it is average. I could do with some advice on how best to explain to the therapist what I like and don’t like? What types of words should I use and how should I approach the therapist? Any tips? Great post by the way.
Hello Lee! 🙂
Thanks for your comment. Your reason, for not bringing up your discomfort in the middle of a massage, is the same reason why many others don’t say anything. At your discomfort, you try to be polite. But remember, it is a service you are paying for. It is okay to let your massage therapist know what you like and don’t like. For example, I go in and let them know that I have sensitive calves so go light there but I love deep pressure everywhere and also my head massaged. Or, if you have a specific area you want attention to, let them know that. For a one hour massage, sometimes, I will let them know that I would love to have 40 minutes on my back and 20 on my arms or legs. If I feel I want to be stretched, I will ask if they can incorporate it. Think of it simply as you are in a relationship and communicating your needs. Once you can do that, you will enjoy your massage sessions a lot more!
That’s so funny because my calves are the areas I always have to tell my therapist to go more gentle!
It is good to choose the right massage therapist according to your need.