Have you been curious about trying Massage Therapy? I understand that it can be difficult to ask certain questions, or maybe we forget in the moment. Some commonly asked questions I have heard over the last decade include…
WHAT’S THE DEAL WITH CLOTHING?
This is completely up to the client and their individual level of comfort. If a client is not entirely comfortable removing their clothes, the are more than welcome to remain clothed throughout their treatment. Many clients find it more comfortable to remove clothing for ease of various kneading actions.
Whether you remove or leave clothing on, Registered Massage Therapists in Ontario must adhere to strict guidelines for draping. These guidelines ensure that you are always covered with the sheet and the only part of the body that is uncovered is the area being treated. Your RMT will ensure that the sheet is tucked in appropriately, so you always feel covered and secure.
While obtaining consent for the treatment, your RMT should discuss the removal of clothing and allow you to decide what works best for you. This includes offering clients that may be uncomfortable undressing, an alternative of doing the massage over the clothing or through the sheet. Your treatment must be comfortable for you and how much of your clothing you remove is your decision.
WHAT IF I HAVE A HAIRY BACK OR HAVEN’T SHAVED MY LEGS LATELY?
No judgement! Body hair is natural and during your massage, we don’t even feel the hair. Clients should never be made to feel self conscious about hair on your body. It will not interfere with the treatment in any way. Your RMT is a person too and all of our bodies grow hair as well so there is no judgement. Just come in and relax!
WHAT IF I SNORE?
It happens, and again, this is a judgement free zone! If you are snoring, RMT has done their job and has given you the much needed rest that your body requires and deserves.
I’VE HEARD THAT MASSAGE THERAPY CAN HURT. DOES IT HAVE TO?
Nope! RMTs work within your comfort and tolerance level. When the treatment is therapeutic for an injury or issue, the involved areas may be sensitive to pressure. You can simply ask your RMT to lighten the pressure to a comfortable amount – alternatively, you are also welcome to ask for more pressure if you feel it is not enough.
CAN I TALK DURING A MASSAGE THERAPY TREATMENT?
I leave this up to my clients. Most RMTs will let the client guide the conversation. If you talk and ask questions, we are happy to chat. If you wish to be quiet, that is okay too!
Your massage therapist may have to ask you questions during your treatment which relate to the area being treated. I will be checking in regarding pressure or may have questions that arise depending on what I observe as we work through certain areas. Other than that, you are not expected to talk during your treatment unless you want to.
COMFORT AND RESULTS!
I want my clients to feel as comfortable as possible when they come for their treatment. If you can think of any questions I may have forgotten, please contact me and I will be happy to answer you.