How can I impress my massage therapist?

Author: Marguerite Kihn  |  Last update: Thursday, October 9, 2025

10 tips to get the most from your massage
  1. Be as receptive and open to the massage process as possible.
  2. Don't eat just before a massage session. ...
  3. Be on time. ...
  4. Take off only as much clothing as you are comfortable removing. ...
  5. Communicate with your massage therapist. ...
  6. Remember to breathe normally.

How do you tell your massage therapist what you want?

  • You can politely communicate your preference by saying something like:
  • ``Hi (Therapist's Name), I really appreciate your work, but I prefer to enjoy the massage in silence.
  • This approach is respectful and clear, ensuring that your therapist knows your preference without causing any discomfort.

What is a good tip for a $100 massage?

A standard tip for a massage therapist typically ranges from 15% to 20% of the total cost of the session. For a one-hour massage, if the session costs $100, you would leave a tip of $15 to $20. If you received exceptional service, you might consider tipping more.

What not to do during a massage?

  • 1. Eating a heavy meal before the massage
  • 2. Drinking alcohol or caffeine before the massage
  • 3. Being dehydrated
  • 4. Wearing jewelry or other accessories that could interfere with the massage
  • 5. Not communicating with your massage therapist about any injuries or areas of sensitivity Upvote Profile photo for Ssaamir

Is it OK to hug your massage therapist?

They may accept the hug, or they may decline. Some don't hug unless it's the final session, some may do it after every session. It's up to the therapist. Either way it's not a reflection on you, they just have their own boundaries that need to be respected.

6 Tips for Giving a Better Massage

How to tell if your massage therapist is into you?

The therapist might seem more flirtatious, and even seductive. You might find the session dwells on personal conversations, instead of focusing on treatment. Changes in body language might not be immediately obvious, but they can indicate a shift in the relationship.

Can a massage therapist sleep with a client?

Sexual contact of any kind between a therapist and a client is unethical and illegal in the State of California.

What are red flags in massage therapy?

One of the first red flags in a massage session is a lack of communication. If the therapist doesn't take the time to ask about your pain points or preferences before starting, that's a sign of trouble.

Should I take off all my clothes during a massage?

This massage is about you and it's important that you feel comfortable. For some people that means leaving some clothing on. For others, it means taking it (mostly) all off. There is no right or wrong, this is your massage.

What is the most favorite body part to be massaged?

The back is one of the most requested areas in any massage. It's where many people carry stress, tension, and discomfort from sitting, standing, or physical activity. Therapists focus on the upper, middle, and lower back to release tightness and improve mobility. The neck and shoulders are another high-tension zone.

What to wear to a massage?

Leave the leather pants and pencil skirts at home! I generally remind you of this before your session, and it's quite common for people to come straight from work, but with a bag of clothes to change into. I usually recommend wearing a t-shirt and yoga pants/sweatpants/shorts.

Is $20 a good tip for an hour massage?

A good rule of thumb for tipping in the massage industry is between 15% and 20% of the total service cost, which is the standard practice in the broader service industry. This range is widely accepted as a standard gesture of appreciation for satisfactory to excellent service, and is a perfectly acceptable tip.

How often should you get a massage?

1. What are the general massage frequency guidelines? It is generally recommended to get a massage once a month to maintain the benefits of relaxation and stress relief. However, some individuals may benefit from more frequent sessions, especially if they have specific health concerns or physical discomfort.

Should I talk during my massage?

Talking during a massage is a personal preference. Some people find that light conversation helps them relax, while others prefer silence to fully immerse themselves in the experience. Let your therapist know what makes you feel most comfortable.

How to compliment your masseuse?

You can express gratitude for their excellent technique, relaxing touch, or effective treatment. Focusing on the overall experience shows appreciation for their professionalism and avoids potentially awkward or misunderstood comments.

What does your massage therapist know about you?

“I take note of things like freedom of movement, symmetry, breathing patterns, and body language,” said massage therapist Cindy Williams. “I also notice things like how fast or loud someone is speaking, how they're gesturing, and whether they seem fatigued or depressed.”

Why do they say not to shower after a massage?

The temperature of the water can cause your muscles to tense up, which can negate the benefits of massage therapy. The heat can also increase the risk of dehydration. Inflammation may also occur if you are already feeling sore after the massage. Wait at least 1-2 hours before showering or taking a bath.

What is inappropriate during a massage?

Unwanted Touching: Any contact that feels inappropriate or goes beyond what is necessary for the massage. This includes touching private areas without explicit consent. Suggestive Comments: Making remarks that are sexual in nature or comments that make you feel uneasy or objectified.

How to act during a massage?

Some people like to talk during a massage, while others remain silent. Tell your massage therapist what you prefer. During the massage session, report any discomfort, whether it's from the massage or due to any problems or distractions related to the environment, e.g., room temperature, music volume, lighting, etc.

How do you know if a massage place is shady?

Here are some of the signs of human trafficking in massage parlors:
  1. Any sexual or erotic services are provided, or they advertise on illicit websites.
  2. The providers are wearing very little clothing.
  3. They refuse to service females.
  4. You have to buzz in to get into the business.

Where should a massage therapist not touch?

Never touch the client's genitals or anus. Clients can only provide explicit consent to have their genital area and gluteal cleft exposed for the purpose of Massage Therapy during childbirth.

What red flags do therapists look for?

Other warning signs include: being judgmental or critical of the client's choices or lifestyle, appearing bored or distracted during sessions, treating the client as emotionally or intellectually inferior, or seeming easily overwhelmed or upset by information the client discloses.

Is it normal to turn on during massage?

But don't worry—it's not an uncommon reaction. During a massage, the combination of physical touch and deep breathing relaxes your body. It activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for “rest and digest” body functions such as slowing the heart rate, digestion, and yes—arousal.

What is the 2 year rule in therapy?

Thus, the Ethics Code includes an absolute prohibition against sex with former clients for a period of two years following termination. The next part of the 2-year rule provides an opportunity for some judgments to be made by therapists.

What should you do if a client falls asleep during their massage?

Maintain the Flow of Your Massage

It's tempting to stop and check on your client when they drift off, but interrupting the flow can disrupt the relaxation you've worked so hard to create. Keep the pace steady and natural. A sleeping client will generally stay relaxed and comfortable without needing adjustments.

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