Communication is KEY!
I read an article recently about the common complaints that massage clients often express regarding their massage experiences. There are a number of reasons that can make a massage not the "greatest" experience. Throughout the years of being a licensed massage therapist, I have tried to do my best at communicating with my clients. No matter how many times I have done a consultation with a new client, or even a client that I have seen a dozen times or more, I am constantly learning. Not every massage is alike, even with the same therapist.
Some common thoughts on a negative experience can include:
- talking too much
- not talking enough
- too much pressure
- too little pressure
- didn’t explain what they were doing
- gave play by play what they were doing, couldn’t relax.
- spent too much time draping
- didn’t drape well enough, felt exposed
Notice, these things listed are pretty much opposites of each other. These are all things that can interfere with your relaxation during a session. However, these things are all things that should easily be solved with a simple solution. Communication.
As your therapist, I will sometimes check in during your appointment. I may ask you “How is the pressure” every now and then. I will drape properly and effectively but if you are ever not comfortable, I can always take the necessary time to make sure that you do not feel exposed. I always try to mold to the individual with their quietness or chattiness. What everyone needs to know… is that everybody has their own preferences. Even though there are signs that I can pick up on, I will need to be able to rely on the client's honesty to lead me at times.
NEVER, and I mean NEVER worry about communicating your thoughts because you are afraid that you may insult me as a therapist. Other than responding to whatever conversion you may want to include me in, I stay pretty silent. If you want to relax and not talk, just say it. I am happy to give you your quiet time. As for pressure, let me know if you want more or less. I would much rather have you leave happy with your treatment session, than have you leave upset that I wasn’t strong enough, or maybe you would never want to come back because I hurt you which is the complete opposite of what I aim to do as your massage therapist.
