This is an excerpt from the March/April 2018 issue of Massage & Bodywork magazine, available at www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com.
We asked massage therapists what their vision of an ultimate massage experience is. Here are a few of the answers. Do you have any to add? Comment below!
From email
A relaxing ambience of candles, spa music, water fountain, rich woodwork, warm massage table, and an outgoing, friendly yet professional, licensed massage therapist who is as good at small talk as they are skilled in bodywork. I receive the massage I ask for, which consists of very little product, a citrus essential oil, and global myofascial release. At the end, my LMT sends me home with tea for my ride then finishes with a Q&A to ensure my expectations were exceeded.
Alicia Bruder
Prairie Farm, Wisconsin
From Facebook
Getting a massage from myself. Too bad it’s impossible.
Jamie Lea Newbold
A great massage makes my body feel listened to, all congested areas refreshed, and mind and body calm and integrated.
Maggie Kampny
The room is warm and neat. The chair to undress is nice, with a hook to hang my clothes on. The music is not too loud and maybe reminiscent of past vacations. The therapist is warm and inviting and really interested in where I am at the time of the session. There is a heated and comfortable table. The therapist gives me plenty of time to undress, as well as plenty of time after the session to get dressed. The therapist is good at creating an intention, and this comes through the hands-on work. A mixture of corrective, relaxation, and energetic techniques are appreciated. No feel of a schedule and no rush.
Kimberly Hovi
A two-person massage.
Caty Warrick Paben
From Twitter
Feeling like a drooling, limp noodle when it’s over!
Jennifer Lovitt
@J_Lovitt
From LinkedIn
That is totally situationally dependent. If I am injured or hurting, then relief from pain. If I have been working out, or engaged in sports, then muscle release. If I just want to relax, then relaxation. Sometimes I want to be stimulated and energized to wake up and face the day or a potentially difficult event/client. There is no universally perfect style or all-encompassing method that will work in any given set of circumstances. So, the ultimate massage experience is whatever I need at that time, on that day.
George Grant
From Massageprofessionals.com
When the MT actually listens to me by working thoroughly on the area I’ve mentioned. Incorporating heat in some way is always nice. I like it when the therapist communicates, but isn’t necessarily trying to start a conversation. A to-go cup of tea or water would be nice. I also just like an overall welcoming atmosphere. Give me that, and I’m happy.
Mintaka Gazer