If you’ve never had massage therapy before, it’s natural to wonder what to expect and how to prepare for the session, especially during 2020. You can visit the spa’s website or contact the practitioner for a list of rules and procedures to know before you arrive. Although each establishment’s guidelines might vary, below is a general overview of etiquette rules to follow and common faux pas to avoid. 

Do:

Remember to shower. 

A massage therapy session is an intimate experience where the practitioner will manipulate both clothed and unclothed areas of the body. Given the close personal contact, showering is advisable to eliminate dirt, oils, and odors. If the facility doesn’t have showers, bathe before you leave the house. 

Arrive early. 

Get to the massage spa 10 minutes early for your session. You then won’t have to rush while filling out paperwork or getting undressed before the session begins. The practitioner will also appreciate your promptness, as starting on time will avoid backups in their schedule.

Don’t:

Consume alcohol before the session.

Refrain from drinking alcohol for at least a full day before getting a massage. Alcohol numbs nerve endings, so you won’t be able to give accurate answers about your comfort and pain response. During massage therapy, people often feel dehydrated as different fluids and toxins circulate in the body. If you’ve been drinking, this can make you feel more intoxicated, which could make driving home dangerous. 

Keep the appointment if you’re sick.

If you have a cold or are feeling under the weather in any way, let the receptionist know, so they can reschedule your massage therapy session. Showing up when you’re sick is not advisable. You’re likely to spread germs and viruses to the practitioner by being in close proximity. You might also infect other clients by breathing on surfaces in the waiting room.

COVID Guidelines

Today’s massage world is very different than at the beginning of the year. Make sure to check with your local spa for their specific COVID safety guidelines before arriving. If you are traveling, make sure to become familiar with that state’s or countries COVID safety rules to make sure that you feel safe in their environment.

It is now common to arrive wearing a mask, have your temperature taken, and be escorted directly to your treatment room versus sitting in a lobby. Your massage therapist is likely to be wearing a mask or a face shield for protection. All surfaces should be easy to wipe down and proper linen and hand washing procedures followed. Remember that all of the precautions are to protect both you and the therapist! Once you lie down for the massage, all will be well.

For massage therapy to improve your mental, physical, and emotional well-being, contact the professionals at 808 Wellness: Healing Spa & Maui Yoga Studio in Kihei, HI. Since 2016, the center has offered hot stone massage, acupuncture, and additional holistic medicine services to help Maui residents feel better from the inside out. See a complete treatment menu online, check out event announcements on Facebook, or call (808) 875-4325 for an appointment.