WHEN YOU'RE GETTING A MASSAGE, IT'S IMPORTANT TO THINK ABOUT HOW MUCH CLOTHING YOU SHOULD TAKE OFF.
Content written by Vic Paterson, RAPID NeuroFascial Reset Specialist, BTEC L5 Soft Tissue Therapy (CSSM), Hypnotherapist, MFHT
Many people don't know if they need to take their clothes off for a message.
It's not only a matter of comfort, but also safety.
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You want to make sure that you feel comfortable and that your massage therapist can access the areas they need to work on.
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On this page, we'll discuss what you should consider when deciding how much clothing to take off for a massage, as well as how to politely let your massage therapist know if you don't want to take your clothes off.
FIRSTLY, IT DEPENDS ON THE TYPE OF MASSAGE
The amount of clothing you should take off for a massage depends on the type of massage you are receiving.
For example, if you're getting a Swedish massage, you will usually be asked to remove most of your clothing. This allows the massage therapist to use long, gliding strokes to reduce muscle tension and improve circulation.
For a fast, seated-at-desk massage, however, you don't need to take off any clothing. This type of massage focuses on the neck, shoulders, and back, so all you need to do is remove any coat, waistcoat or jacket and loosen any tight clothing.
Sports massage also requires you to take off some clothing, but it's generally performed while wearing gym clothing.
Your therapist may want to assess your movements before the treatment, so it's important to wear comfortable clothes that allow for free range of motion. This will make it easier for the therapist to identify any areas that need extra attention.
YOU DON'T HAVE TO BE FULLY NUDE
You should never be expected to be fully nude for a massage. Depending on the type of massage you are receiving, you may be asked to take off some of your clothing. However, you will always be given the choice of what you would like to keep on and what you would like to remove.
In the UK, massage therapists are trained to work on clients in their underwear. Think of the level of clothing you'd wear as being the same as swimwear. You should never be asked to remove all your underwear.
With both Swedish and sports massage, you should expect your therapist to cover the areas not being worked with a towel or blanket. This has two benefits - it both preserves your dignity, and helps keep muscles warm should they need to be worked on during the treatment.
This means that no matter what kind of massage you're getting, you won't have to worry about feeling exposed or uncomfortable. You'll be able to relax and enjoy the experience, knowing that your therapist has your best interests in mind.
IF YOU'RE UNCOMFORTABLE, TALK TO YOUR THERAPIST
If you don't want to take your clothes off for a massage, or if you're uncomfortable with how much clothing you need to remove, talk to the massage therapist.
If you tell them your concerns, they should be able to work with you and make accommodations for your comfort.
It's important to keep in mind that the massage therapist is there to help you relax and enjoy your treatment - not make you feel embarrassed or uncomfortable. They should be respectful and understanding of your wishes.
If you don't feel like your therapist is listening to you or accommodating your needs, then it's time to look for another therapist. You deserve to be comfortable and relaxed during your massage session.
TIPS FOR TAKING OFF CLOTHES FOR A MASSAGE
1. Always leave your underwear on. Women should wear a bra and briefs / pants, while men should wear briefs / boxer shorts - imagine what you would wear to the beach.
2. If you're feeling uncomfortable taking your clothes off, talk to your massage therapist. Your therapist will be more than happy to answer any questions you have, and accommodate your needs. If you do not see why an item of clothing should be removed, don't take it off and please don't allow yourself to feel pressured into removing clothing!
3. Get comfortable with the environment before taking your clothes off. Make sure the room or area is warm enough, and that you have been given a blanket or towel to cover yourself with. Some therapists will provide small towels as they are cheaper to clean - if the towel is too small to cover yourself, tell the therapist you require a larger towel to feel comfortable.
4. Take your time. If you feel too exposed, you can always keep a towel or blanket over your body while changing. The therapist should leave the room or area whilst you change - they should not watch you.
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