Where do you put your arms during a massage?

Author: Prof. Stone Mann  |  Last update: Friday, November 7, 2025

You can feel free to re-position your arms while I'm working. Some clients put them by their heads on the face cradle. Others hang them off the table at a 90 degree angle from their bodies. Some hang them off the front of the table.

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

What is the proper massage position?

Bend legs and straighten your arms

If the couch isn't too high, you can also keep your arms straight most of the time. Bring your shoulders over your wrists to drop deeper into the tissues. Work with your legs to bring your body into this position.

Do you wear a bra during a massage?

During a massage, it's common to wear minimal clothing to ensure comfort and allow the massage therapist to access the areas being worked on. Most people choose to wear underwear, or if they prefer, a bikini or sports bra.

Which direction should you massage arms?

Start with your shoulder, gently stretch the skin, pushing the fluid upwards and release. Shift the hand that is performing the massage down to your upper arm. Gently stretch the skin, pushing the fluid upwards and release. Repeat this upward motion on your forearm (elbow to wrist).

How to Strengthen Your Arms For Massage Therapy

Why do my arms hurt when massaged?

Muscle manipulation.

The pressure and movements during a massage can break apart spasms or micro-scars in the muscle fibers. This can lead to soreness similar to what you might experience after exercising.

How much do you tip for a $100 massage?

The standard hospitality rate for massage tipping is 20 percent. For example, if a massage or body treatment costs $100, a 20 percent tip would be $20.

What is the most pleasurable type of massage?

The Most Relaxing Types of Massages
  • Swedish Massage. The most common type of massage therapy, Swedish massage will help to relax you with a combination of specific movements including: ...
  • Hot Stone Massage. Another very relaxing type of massage is the hot stone massage. ...
  • Chair Massage. ...
  • Aromatherapy Massage.

Do you take off pants during massage?

You should never be expected to be fully nude for a massage. Depending on the type of massage you are receiving, you may be asked to take off some of your clothing. However, you will always be given the choice of what you would like to keep on and what you would like to remove.

What is the most requested massage?

Swedish massage is arguably considered the most popular massage type, appearing on a majority of spa menus worldwide. This Western massage utilizes the following techniques—effleurage (stroking), friction (rubbing), petrissage (kneading) and tapotement (rhythmic choppings)—for a truly relaxing spa treatment experience.

What is the first rule of massage?

1. Slow down when you need to. Speed up when you don't need to slow down.

What body part feels the best in a massage?

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 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.

Why can't you 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.

Is it rude to fall asleep during a massage?

Massage therapists understand that their clients may fall asleep during a session and do not consider it rude at all. In fact, they often see it as a compliment that their techniques are so effective in inducing relaxation.

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.

How do you know if a massage therapist is good?

Check credentials.

Make sure the massage therapist you are considering has the proper credentials. He or she should be certified or licensed by a recognized organization. Check to see if the organization requires continuing education or if it has a code of ethics.

What is the most advanced massage?

In layman's terms, Aescape provides you with a personalized session that swaps out a human massage therapist for a table that's equipped with two robotic arms for double the bodywork in half the time.

What is proper etiquette when getting a massage?

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 much is a 90 minute massage?

Here is a summary of the average cost of massage therapy based on the duration of the session: 30 minutes: $30 to $65. 60 minutes: $50 to $130. 90 minutes: $90 to $175.

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.

What body parts should not be massaged?

These are areas of the body where deep, sustained pressure should be avoided because of the structures that lie beneath. Those areas are the anterior and posterior triangles of the neck, suprasternal notch, sternum, axilla, spinal column, umbilical area, inguinal triangle, popliteal fossa, and the antecubital fossa.

Can a massage therapist feel knots?

Yes, massage therapists are trained to identify muscle tension through touch and experience. They use their knowledge of anatomy to pinpoint problem areas effectively. The frequency depends on your activity level and tension severity.

How to do a good arm massage?

Simple arm massage techniques at home

Start by rubbing your hands together to create heat. Then, apply pressure to the muscles in the arms using your fingertips, knuckles, or palms. 2. Use circular or back-and-forth motions with light to moderate pressure.

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