Massage therapists pick on a variety of things from the moment you step into a salon or a spa center. While you’re looking around the space and noticing its scents and cleanings, your massage therapist is doing the same to you. They are trained to be in tune with their client’s needs, which often means observing more than you thought. Here are common things your massage therapist notices as soon you are on the table.
Body hair
Though massage therapists notice your body hair situation, it does not mean they will judge you. It won’t affect the quality of the service because they are professionals and have seen it all. But body hair is not easy to miss when a person is lying on a table. If you are self-conscious, this could be a problem because you won’t be able to relax fully. But, for a therapist, it is all the same.
Acne and other skin issues
It will take no time for a massage therapist to notice all your skin imperfections, including cracked heels, acne, moles, etc. Like with body hair, it will not change the quality of your massage, but since the massage therapists are solely focused on you, it is normal for them to notice these things. Licensed massage therapists are willing and able to help with early skin cancer detection.
Your lifestyle
While they might not be able to guess your profession, it is common knowledge that those with tension in the neck, shoulders, and lower back are busy working by the desktop. They might also notice whether you’re a runner or have children. There is no crystal ball – massage therapists notice where the tension gathers, and how it got there is easy to assume.
Your stress levels
From the moment they see you, massage therapists can tell whether you’re stressed out, fatigued, or in the mood to chat. This is based on your posture, breathing patterns, symmetry, freedom of movement, and how you carry yourself. Your body language is an excellent tool for therapists since they are working on relaxing not only your body but also your mind.
Whether you’re a talker
Massage therapists mirror their clients, so if you prefer to stay quiet, so will your therapist. If you want to chat, they will join. However, topics should be light and socially acceptable. If you aren’t a master of small talk yet find it soothing, simply talk about massage and ask about the process.
Dozing off
It is not uncommon to doze off during a massage. It may signal a therapist that they are doing a great job or that you need rest. Regardless, once you doze off, your breathing patterns change and massage therapists are always listening to discover whether you give away sounds of discomfort or pleasure.
Whether you are willing to speak up
Some people don’t say anything, while others only speak up about the pain they felt after the massage. However, the best clients are the ones who express their concerns during the massage, so they work with the therapist to improve the experience on the spot. Additionally, you might not find the scented candle pleasurable, and you should voice your opinion because any good massage therapist wants you to get the best out of your “me” time.
If you suffered abuse or injuries
Touching someone who went through abuse can trigger unwanted memories. Many professional massage therapists might try to soothe you if they notice that your breathing has changed, and some might even refer you to mental health specialists. If you had an injury, your therapists will likely be able to tell.
Occupational strain
Your job can significantly impact your physical health, and massage therapists will be able to identify your occupation. For example, if your shins are overly sensitive, it indicates you work as a house painter. If you have groin area pains, it could indicate you’re an athlete, while low back pain is usually a problem for truck drivers.
Personal hygiene
Showering before a massage is imperative because it improves the overall experience for you and your therapist. If you are arriving straight from work, shower in the morning. While your massage therapist will not say anything because they are professionals, they are also humans who want to improve your day, so show them respect by coming prepared.
Perfume you’re wearing
It is not just your showering habits that are exposed. If you’re wearing too much perfume, you might trigger allergies or even give your therapist a headache. Additionally, it could interfere with the room’s scents and create an unpleasant mixture. While showering is basically mandatory, skipping perfume is a good idea.
Breathing patterns
Breathing patterns can reveal tension in the body, helping massage therapists understand emotional and physical states. This provides insights into tension levels and reactions to touch. Regardless of what your massage therapist discovers, they will not judge you because they are interested in well-being, not gossiping.
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Kate Smith, a self-proclaimed word nerd who relishes the power of language to inform, entertain, and inspire. Kate's passion for sharing knowledge and sparking meaningful conversations fuels her every word.