Massage FAQs

New to massage? Or just have some questions you've always been afraid to ask? Read on for answers!

Question #1

Do I have to take my clothes off?

The short answer is: no.

First, some styles of massage like shiatsu and Thai massage are done fully clothed! If you're nervous about disrobing, these can be great options.

Second, clients are invited to disrobe only to their level of comfort. If that means keeping everything but your shoes on, that's okay! While direct access to skin can make some techniques more effective, the entire body can be treated through clothing or over the drape. If you choose to fully disrobe, know that intimate areas (groin, breast tissue, gluteal cleft) will ALWAYS be covered the drape. In fact, only the area being worked on will be undraped at any time, unless you specifically request to keep your arms or feet out of the drape.

For all services, I do recommend removing tight accessories like belts and watches, and unfastening buttons on collars and cuffs for your comfort and circulation.

Question #2

Does/should massage hurt?

While professional opinions on this vary, my response is generally no. Massage may occasionally be uncomfortable or areas may be tender, but it should always be tolerable and never be what you would consider painful. I tell first time (and repeat) clients that any pain/discomfort that affects their breathing, makes them grit their teeth, or causes them to brace against my pressure is too much. Those three responses are signs that we are revving up your nervous system, which makes it harder for muscles to relax, and may cause an increase in tension--the exact opposite of the goal of massage. Deeper massage techniques may occasionally leave you sore, and if that's the case, I encourage clients to let me know so that we can adjust techniques in the future. While you may have a "high pain tolerance," it does not need to be tested on the massage table.

Question #3

What if I'm ticklish? Can I still get a massage?

Yes. Absolutely. Your therapist will work with you to adjust pressure and strokes so that your tickle response is not activated and/or calms down. You can also request that particularly sensitive areas not be worked. Anecdotally, you may find that you tickle response lessens the more therapeutic touch you receive. Although it may also worsen during periods of high stress.

Certain massage types like shiatus and Thai massage may also be less conducive to the tickle response as they are done over clothing and including more compressions than stroking/gliding movements.

Question #4

Will the therapist touch my _________ (butt, feet, face...)?

A full body massage may include gluteal muscles (aka buttocks), abdomen, feet, face, scalp, neck, back, arms, hands, and legs. However, you alway have the right to choose where you want your therapist to work. During the start of your appointment, we'll discuss what areas you are and are not comfortable having touched. There is never any pressure to agree to have an area worked on. If I believe addressing a certain area might help with your pain (ex: relaxing glutes to help the low back), I may guide you through some self-myofascial release techniques you can use at home.

Note: Intimate areas such as the breasts and genitals will NEVER be massaged.

Question #5

Do I have to tip?

While this varies throughout the industry, Outside the Mat's specifically has a no-tipping policy. Our stance is that massage is part of healthcare, and you don't tip your doctor or your chiropractor. We also believe that the price for your massage should be what you read on the website or were quoted over the phone. There shouldn't be a bunch of up-charges or hidden expenses.

Question #6

Can I get a massage if ______ (I have high blood pressure, I'm pregnant, I just had surgery, I just got a new tattoo...)?

When in doubt, reach out! Each case is unique, and I'm always happy to answer questions about our services and when massage is/is not appropriate.