The first time you do something can be intimidating but massage is such an important part of overall health. Here is a step by step guide of what to expect:
I recommend starting with a general (Swedish) massage. Choose a therapist or shop based on recommendations or reviews. Having scheduled your appointment and showed up (good idea to arrive about 15 minutes early if it is a spa because you will want to enjoy relaxing in the usually spa like atmosphere waiting area), check in at the desk.
When your therapist greets you to take you to your private massage area he or she will show you where to put your clothes and jewelry and leave you to change out of your street clothes. He or ste will also let you know whether to lie on the massage table face up or face down. He or she will probably ask you if you have any special concerns like sore back or neck, etc.
As you change, keep in mind that you can choose to keep your panties I recommend removing all underclothes full benefit. Otherwise your therapist will be flooding them up and down to reach your higher thigh area and this can be more awkward than him or her simply refolding the sheet that will cover you. Once you are ready the therapist will knock to check and you can say ready!
Generally there will be some relaxing music. The therapist will check in with you as to any injuries or current areas of concern. He or she will run his or her hands over your body to explore any sensitive areas and determine the level of pressure you prefer. This is a bit like ordering food at the Thai restaurant. Mild, medium and hot (or deep in this case) vary from restaurant (provider) to restaurant. However at any time you can ask for more or less pressure or ask the therapist not to work on a certain area. The therapist will oil his or her hands and begin to massage each area of your body individually. He or she will check in with you to ask about the pressure and you should be honest. Feel no requirement to speak any more than that but if you want to go ahead. I like to be silent and often fall into a trance almost asleep.
Halfway through the therapist will have you flip over. The headrest you put your face through is removed as are the cushions under your knees and ankles. He or she will hold the sheet up for privacy.
Once complete the therapist will let you know and leave the room son you can change back into your street clothes. Once dressed you will go into the hall and they will be there to take you to the payment area. You can provide feedback on the way especially if you enjoyed and want to return so they will be familiar with what you like or don’t. Hopefully also you were honest during the massage.
Tipping 20% is quite typical.
Hope you enjoy and will find it a benefit to your health rituals! Once a month is optimal.
Notes From Real Life 