Preparing for Your Visit
Having selected which type of treatment you wish to book; you can go ahead and book an appropriate time.
What else do you need to know before you arrive for your appointment?
To Shower and/or Shave
It is appreciated when a client is able to shower beforehand, though we know that isn't always possible and that is fine. Should you shave in preparation for a treatment? We never care whether or not a client has shaved. We are more concerned with the muscles and areas that need to be treated.
Arriving by Car
There may be room to park in the driveway but it is not possible to park in front of the property on Ryefield Close (the road is narrow). Please park in Woodcroft Drive, to the side of the property on the opposite side of the road.
Arrive on Time
Punctuality is very important. We always try to accommodate and move an appointment, if possible, but, on a busy day, there may not be a lot of flexibility in the schedule. In such cases, the service will have to end at the scheduled time regardless of when the client arrived. We also have strict preparation and clean down procedures to follow between each client.
Rather than planning to show up at the time of your appointment, we recommend leaving enough time that would allow you to arrive a few minutes early in case there are delays on the road. That way, you can use the restroom prior to your treatment if needed. We always build in enough time for the filling out of paperwork, when required, into the time allocated.
A Brief Guide to your Massage Experience
You are now ready for your treatment; we want you to feel comfortable and confident both on and off the table. How can you ensure you are a model client and receive the best treatment for your needs? There’s not actually a whole lot to do (above all, we want clients to be relaxed and enjoy themselves), but here are some tips.
How to Disrobe
You will be left alone to disrobe and there will be given a basket into which your clothes may be placed. We always tell clients to disrobe to their level of comfort, and explain that they’ll be covered and draped the entire massage. We only uncover the areas we are working on at the moment. As a male therapist, I make a point to be conservative with the draping technique and never massage under clothing that is left on. When we need to move an item to gain access to an area, we always ask for permission first and it is the client’s choice whether we continue on to treat that area. In our experience, most people either take everything off or leave their bottoms on.
In the case of undergarments and jewellery, think about what’s going to make for the most relaxing treatment. Clients should consider what areas they'd like specific work on and whether they are okay with getting oil or lotion on their garment or jewellery, as sometimes they can get in the way. It is easiest to remove necklaces and earrings, but, at the end of the day, it’s up to you. A small bowl is available in which to deposit jewellery during a treatment. Ultimately, client comfort is the priority.
Don’t Be Afraid to Communicate
As a massage therapist we are there to deliver the most enjoyable treatment for each client, which means we are willing to talk as much or as little as you would like to. It is your time, so you are welcome to chat or speak as much you want. We always let the client lead any conversations.
With that said, communication, especially if it’s about certain target areas or pressure, is the key to maximizing your experience. In order to get the most out of a massage, clients should definitely feel empowered to ask for what they need, whether that means a pressure adjustment, spending a little extra time somewhere, or skipping an area all together. There is no such thing as being too vocal, as this is your treatment.
One thing to keep in mind about pressure: While clients have every right to ask for as much or as little pressure their therapist is capable of giving, those looking for extremely deep pressure should know that their tissue will need to be warmed up first using lighter techniques and progressing into deep pressure in order to prevent damaging the tissue. In extreme cases a heat lamp may be used to heat the tissues more quickly before deep work is attempted.
After the Treatment
Your therapist will leave the room whilst you dress and will return when you are ready. There will be an opportunity to discuss the treatment and any post treatment actions or limitations. Payment for the treatment may be made at this time, unless it was made in advance on line. A further appointment may also be made at this time.
Leaving a Gratuity or Tip
In the UK, giving a tip is less common than elsewhere in the world. Therefore, we do not expect a client to give a tip. However, if you do wish to offer one then a 10 percent gratuity is plenty for such a treatment. However, it is always the client's choice as to how much they'd like to leave.
How to Maximize the Benefit of your Massage
Massages can do wonders for your mental and physical wellbeing, but you can actually extend the benefits post-treatment. To keep the rest and relaxation going, consider the following:
• Take a Bath: Post-massage taking a warm bath to further relieve any stress and tension and proactively counteract soreness. This is particularly useful after a deep tissue massage.
• Stay Hydrated: Massage therapists offer water after a massage as it helps flush the waste products released during the treatment. Stick to water and avoid caffeine and alcohol, as it can be counterproductive to the benefits obtained by the massage.
• Avoid Strenuous Exercise: Massage therapists offer water after a massage as it helps flush the waste products released
• Book Another Treatment: Massage is more than just a luxury; it is healthcare and should be done more than just once a year. Massage is like exercise; your muscles need it on a regular basis so you can move through life feeling balanced. It’s called ‘massage therapy’ for a reason.
To Summarise
Remember, it’s your massage. Be as communicative as possible when it comes to sharing what you want (or, just as importantly, what you don’t want), and feel free to ask for guidance prior to booking your appointment to help select the best service for your needs. In terms of etiquette, be punctual and respectful and let your therapist take care of the rest.