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How do you prefer to begin a massage
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Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Terry Chretien on
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I usually begin with the client face-down because, especially if they are new to massage therapy, I feel that it makes them feel somewhat safer. I work on their shoulders, neck and back for a long time, then move to the back of the legs. When they turn over, I do more on the neck, face and head, then arms, fronts of the legs and feet at the end. I have had quite a few massages myself and I walk around in flip-flops or bare feet, so I feel kind of grossed out when someone works on my feet and then wants to massage my head and face.
Alternatively, if you are talking about where in a geographical sense, we like to start (and finish) them on the beach! ;-)
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Permalink Reply by Gary W Addis, LMT on
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How I begin depends on the needs of the particular client. But, since most client complaints center in the back, like most other LMTS, I most often begin with the client prone, face in the cradle.
There's a logical reason for my preference. Most clients sink into a dreamless, restful sleep during the session. After the back work (including neck and shoulders) is completed, I have to interrupt the nap to turn the client supine. When the client is face up, back and forth conversation is possible: instruction in eliminating their own trigger points in chest, arms, neck, legs, scalp and face, as well as how to properly stretch. Besides providing the client with useful instruction about their bodies, this helps the client to revive leisurely, and arise from the table fully restored and ready to meet life head-on.
Without this interaction, made possible by finishing with the client supine, the client must be nudged awake and asked to get dressed while they are still groggy. Working in a busy spa, appointments are scheduled close together...as little as 15 minutes for me to prepare for the next client session.
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Permalink Reply by JP on
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I too normally start with the client prone and finish supine with facial and head massage as the last part. I wash my hands or use a hot towel after massaging the feet before I move on up the body.
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I usually prefers to start from downwards as it gives a positive feeling inside. I am in home massage therapist and thats why I mostly asked customers to say first about starting massage.
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Terry Chretien said:I usually begin with the client face-down because, especially if they are new to massage therapy, I feel that it makes them feel somewhat safer. I work on their shoulders, neck and back for a long time, then move to the back of the legs. When they turn over, I do more on the neck, face and head, then arms, fronts of the legs and feet at the end.
I agree with you on this.
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