Proper etiquette can feel confusing if you are new to professional massage. Knowing what to expect before your first appointment helps you relax and enjoy the experience. Here are the most common questions answered so you can walk in feeling confident.
Customers new to professional bodywork may have a lot of questions. Do your therapists accept tips? How much should I tip?
In This Article
Do I Have to Remove All My Clothes?
Do I have to take all my clothes off? What’s the difference between a Swedish style and deep tissue? Do chiropractic adjustments hurt? Many want to know the answers to proper etiquette but few dare to ask. Here’s the scoop so you don’t feel all confused!
Do Therapists Accept Tips?
Do therapists accept tips? The answer is yes and it is customary to tip your therapist. Just as you would tip any service provider such as your hair stylist, manicurist and waiter, therapists do accept tips and are appreciative of any amount given.
How much should you tip? The average tip for an hour session is about $10.
Do I have to take all my clothes off? No not at all. If you are not comfortable removing your underwear you may feel free to keep them on. Removal of clothing is not mandatory. It only makes it easier for your therapist to maneuver effortlessly around the body and makes the experience more relaxing for you.
What’s the difference between a Swedish vs deep tissue? of the body such as the neck, shoulders, back and legs. They also use the same techniques to work these areas. The only difference is that the Swedish style utilizes a medium pressure for a more relaxing experience and the deep tissue style uses a firmer pressure. If you do not receive regular sessions or exercise often it is recommended to get a Swedish session at first. Lactic acid is released during the manipulation of muscles making you feel soar and like you just had a thorough workout at the gym. After you become a pro, take it to the next level and try a deep tissue session.
What Is a Chiropractic Adjustment?
What exactly is a chiropractic adjustment and will it hurt? A chiropractic adjustment is when a chiropractor uses several spinal manipulation techniques in order to realign your body to alleviate any tension in the neck, back and hips. Adjustments generally do not hurt. Our chiropractor is a licensed Chiropractic Doctor with over 12 years of experience. He will ask you a brief series of questions about your medical history and any injuries sustained in the past. He will also evaluate your posture and things that will need to be adjusted. An adjustment typically takes about 5 minutes.
At Happy Head we welcome new customers as well as experienced clients to ask any questions about which style they would like. Our front desk staff is knowledgeable, ready and willing to answer all your questions.
Another common question is whether you should talk during your session. The answer depends entirely on your preference. Some people enjoy chatting with their therapist, while others prefer silence. Either way, always communicate if the pressure is too light or too firm. Your comfort is the top priority.
Arriving five to ten minutes early gives you time to fill out any intake forms and settle in. Avoid eating a heavy meal right before your appointment, and stay hydrated afterward to help flush out toxins released during the session.
Why Good Etiquette Matters
According to the American Massage Therapy Association, clear communication between client and therapist leads to better outcomes and a more enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
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