Just what you need after the hectic holidays, right? Not always. For massage newbies — and some not-so-newbies — who may not be familiar with the proper pampering protocol, what should be a relaxing experience quickly can become a nerve-wracking ordeal.
To strip or not to strip? What if your massage therapist is a guy? Should your therapist be touching you there? These are a few of the concerns that can be a source of tension, according to the Chicago spa owners, massage therapists and frequent spagoers with whom RedEye spoke.
Schils told RedEye that many first-timers are most nervous about disrobing. With that in mind, RedEye turned to Childs, Schils and other spa experts to address the most common massage stress points. More bashful clients can keep on their underwear, Tessler said. Women usually remove their bras; the chest area remains covered by a sheet while the client is lying on her back.
The same rule applies in the sauna or steam room. Most spas will accommodate you. Yes — but with permission. He said he specifically asks about feet and glutes. From a therapeutic standpoint, releasing tension in the gluteus maximus can help with lower back pain. The client should feel pressure and kneading — any squeezing of butt cheeks would be inappropriate. If the client is fully undressed, he will fold the sheet back for the massage.
Grozenski said his therapists take their cue from the clients. A good massage therapist should check in during the course of the massage about the level of pressure, the temperature of the room, and periodically ask about pain. Are you comfortable? Am I hurting you? Yes, but keep it down. Ask about gratuities because every spa has its own guidelines. Tips of 10 to 20 percent are customary for massages. In addition to their school certification, individual professional massage therapists receive licenses through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, the same agency that licenses physicians, nurses, and other health-care professionals.
