Massage therapy is an effective treatment for reducing stress and relieving muscle pain. However, getting a full-body massage for the first time might be intimidating as you don’t know what to expect. To ensure your first appointment goes smoothly, here are a few of the do’s and don’ts of massage etiquette.

Do:

Turn off your phone.

Your belongings may be with you in the treatment room, so it’s essential to turn off all electronics before the session begins. Whether it’s a phone call or an alarm, any excess noise is distracting during a full-body massage treatment and may interrupt your feelings of peace and relaxation.

Communicate with your therapist.

If your therapist is applying too much or too little pressure, don’t be afraid to voice this during the treatment. While you may feel some discomfort in tense muscle areas, you should always notify the therapist of any pain you’re feeling. Before the appointment, they’ll also ask about any problem areas or injuries, and it’s during this time that you should discuss your questions or concerns.

Don’t:

Arrive late.

It’s best to arrive about 10 or 15 minutes before your appointment start time so that you have the chance to fill out paperwork and talk to your massage therapist about your preferences. Showing up late will cut into the treatment time you reserved and paid for.

Show up if you’re sick.

If you’re sick the day before your appointment, it’s best to cancel rather than show up with a cold or flu. You won’t enjoy your experience if you’re ill, and you could contaminate the massage table and reception area, affecting the health of the staff and other customers.

When it’s time to schedule your first full-body massage, contact the licensed therapists at Kama'aina Massage and Foot Spa in Honolulu, HI. This locally owned spa provides a wide range of treatments for men and women, including Thai, Shiatsu, and Swedish massages as well as foot reflexology. They also offer full-body massages for individuals and couples in a soothing environment. Call (808) 352-6144 to schedule an appointment, or view their current specials online.