Modesty in Massage

Some people don't come in for massage because they worry about getting naked. They worry about being exposed to a stranger, they worry about exactly what will happen while they are undressed, and they worry about what the Therapist will be thinking during a session. Since it's sometimes hard for people to talk openly about modesty issues, I thought I'd take this opportunity to address some common questions and concerns.

Firstly, you don't have to undress to receive massage. There are many modalities [types of massage] that are preformed fully clothed. Most massage, especially in the U.S., is preformed partially or completely unclothed however, and chances are if you make an appointment at a Massage Studio you'll be expected to undress at least down to your underwear.

It's important to know that you'll be given complete privacy while you disrobe and dress, in fact the Massage Therapist won't even be in the room during those times. Nor will any part of your body be exposed unnecessarily. If your arm is being worked on, then only your arm will be uncovered, if a leg is being massaged, then only that leg will be exposed. Massage Therapists are required to practice draping in school, and they practice many different styles of draping on many different body types. You need have no fear that your Therapist will uncover or otherwise expose any part of your body without your prior knowledge and consent.

Before you even enter the massage room, you'll have a chance to discuss with your Therapist exactly what kind of massage you want, what you'd like to have massaged, and what places you'd like your Therapist to avoid. Many people don't want abdominal massage for example, some don't like to have their face touched: It doesn't matter, whatever makes you comfortable is what the Massage Therapist is there for. All you have to do is let your Therapist know what makes you comfortable. Remember, you're the client, you're in charge, and you have the right to be treated with respect, decorum and deference at all times.

And if you're worried about what we think when we see your body, you needn't be. Just like doctors and nurses, we've seen it all. And unlike doctors and nurses, we've actually touched it all, everywhere, more than once. The fact is, bodies look like what they look like. Airbrushed images in magazines don't come in for massage, real people do, and real people are exactly the ones we're here to help. If you're very, very large or very, very small, I'm not thinking about what you look like, I'm trying to remember where I put my extra pillows so I can make you comfortable.

Massage Therapists who gossip about clients and pay attention to looks don't last long in this business, because by definition they're not professional, they're not good at what they do, and they simply don't succeed long-term. When we're working on you we're actually working - thinking about what you need and what we can do for you and what you'll need next, because as I said before, you're the reason we're here. So don't worry. You can trust, you can relax, and you can enjoy. You're entitled to a safe environment, you're entitled to respect, and you're entitled to nonjudgmental, professional treatment, every time.