The questions people are too polite to ask before a first massage are almost always the same ones. Here they are, answered plainly.
What do I take off?
Whatever you are comfortable taking off. Many people keep underwear on; some undress fully; some stay clothed entirely. All of these are normal, and your therapist genuinely does not mind. For Thai massage and shiatsu you stay fully clothed by design.
You undress in private, get onto the table under the sheet, and your therapist knocks before coming back in.
How does draping work?
You are covered by a sheet or towel for the entire treatment. Only the area being worked on is uncovered, and it is re-covered before your therapist moves on. This is standard professional practice and it is not negotiable — if you are ever somewhere it is not being followed, leave.
Am I supposed to talk?
There is no rule. Some clients chat the whole way through and some say nothing after the first two minutes. Your therapist will follow your lead. What you should always speak up about is pressure, room temperature, or anything that is uncomfortable.
How a first visit runs
- Arrive 10 minutes early Time for a short intake form covering allergies, injuries, medication, and pregnancy, plus tea before you start.
- Consultation Your therapist asks what brought you in, which areas need attention, and what pressure you want. Mention any injuries or recent surgery.
- Undress and settle In private, to your comfort level, under the sheet, face down to start unless told otherwise.
- The treatment Your therapist checks pressure early on. Answer honestly — “a little lighter” is a completely normal thing to say.
- Turning over About halfway, you will be asked to turn. Your therapist holds the sheet up so you stay covered.
- Finishing You are told the session is ending and left alone to get up slowly and dress. Take your time — standing up too fast after a good massage is genuinely disorienting.
- Water and tea Drink water. We serve tea afterwards, and there is no need to rush off.
Common questions
What if I fall asleep?
Completely normal and a good sign. Snoring is not unusual and your therapist will not mind in the slightest.
What if I am ticklish?
Tell your therapist. Firmer, slower pressure is far less ticklish than light touch, and they can adjust or avoid the area.
Should I tip?
Tipping is appreciated but never expected. If you would like to, 15–20% is the usual range in New Jersey.
What if I need to stop?
Say so at any point and the session stops. You are in charge of the treatment throughout.
Do I need to shave my legs?
No. Genuinely, no therapist anywhere has ever noticed or cared.
What if I have an injury or a health condition?
Tell us on the intake form and mention it to your therapist. Most conditions simply mean adapting the treatment. For recent surgery or a serious condition, check with your doctor first.
