You are about to visit a massage parlor or have already been there, but… But some piquant questions bother you, causing stiffness and anxiety.
Especially if you are a first-time client of a prestigious salon like Armonia SPA, for example, where experienced professionals work and the service is at a high level, and the choice of services and procedures scatters your eyes.
We have collected some specific questions and given brief and comprehensive answers to them.
1. I am self-conscious about certain parts of my body; should I undress completely?
Complexes, shyness, and dissatisfaction with your body very often become a barrier not only for personal life but also for the usual need to undergo a medical examination or undress in a massage parlor. It can be overweight, acne, scars, increased hairiness, etc.
Keep in mind that no one is perfect, even in glossy magazines where Photoshop retouches beauty. And the masseur looks at you with the eyes of a doctor and will not notice, let alone talk about you. For him, you are the patient, and your wish is the law. You can ask not to touch a certain area of the body or to remain partially clothed or covered with a sheet.
2. What if I feel aroused during the massage and the masseur notices?
Due to the erection, men find it hard to hide their arousal, unlike women. In fact, it is quite natural. During the massage, any gentle touch can trigger a parasympathetic impulse, and an erection occurs. For men, the best option is to wear tight-fitting swimming trunks. Alternatively, as a final measure, request a moment to calm down.
3. What if I have a sudden urge to pee or can’t hold my gas?
If you have a sudden urge to pee during the massage, just say so and go to the toilet. If you clench your sciatic muscles and tense up, the massage will be useless. Any discomfort, anxiety, and physical factors must be eliminated. It is the same with gas. If it happens randomly, it should not be noticed by the masseur. You can also interrupt the treatment and ask to leave to go to the bathroom.
4. Can I talk during a massage?
A massage therapist, although it is a service industry, is still a medical profession. It is better not to talk but to concentrate on the sensations, relax as much as possible, and even sleep. But you can always express your requests or wishes if you are not comfortable: cold, hot, painful, or unpleasant, or if you forgot to say something during the consultation.
5. What if I’m ticklish?
Everyone is ticklish to some degree. Warn the masseur. But usually, moderate and light movements during the massage will not cause tickling.
6. Does the masseur leave the room when I undress?
Yes. The masseur will ask you to undress depending on the massage—partially or completely. If you have problem areas around the tailbone, thighs, and buttocks, any clothes will be tight and uncomfortable. The specialist will always take care of your comfort and offer a towel (or even disposable underwear). The masseur will only enter the room when you are ready.
7. Is it possible, and is it necessary, to tip a masseur?
If you visit a professional massage parlor in Europe, a tip of 15-20% is considered mandatory. In some countries, there are no prescriptions or rules for this issue. Occasionally it depends on the specialist or clinic. The masseur does not expect such “gratitude” from you and may refuse. But a sincere gratitude without money, in the form of a gift, is also possible. It all depends on your noble and sincere intentions.
Conclusion
Massage offers a chance to treat your body and mind in addition to a means of relaxation. Allow embarrassment or shyness not to prevent you from appreciating this experience. Recall that professional massage therapists work to provide a secure and comfortable space in which your preferences and limitations will always be honored. Calm yourself, rely on the expert, and allow yourself to enjoy the operation to the most possible advantage. After all, looking after oneself is not a luxury but a need.