Is it bad form to get a massage during my period? Not having much experience with getting massages, I have no idea and don’t want to break some sort of unspoken rule or something…
And, since we’re on the subject of massages–is one expected to tip a massage therapist who works independently? How much?
Thanks,
karol
Y’know, with a name like bodypoet , I kinda assumed you were a massage therapist!
Yes, you can get a massage during your period. Some therapists may ask during the intake where you are in your menstrual cycle, so we know not to do deep work in the abdomen.
I doubt any of us expect tips. They can be an added bonus for good work. If someone is working out of a spa or health club, he/she has to split the fee you pay with the place of business, usually 60/40. In those cases, please tip if you would like. If someone is working out of his/her home, he/she doesn’t have to split the fee with anyone, so tipping isn’t necessary.
I hope I answered your questions sufficiently! I’m sure others will be along soon to offer up their suggestions. Enjoy your massage!
Thank you, Chicken Scratch. My appointment is tonight, and oh! did I NOT want to cancel!
I’d love to take classes to be a massage therapist, but it’s a bit further down my list of Things to Do, in the midst of the rather misty, unevolved section that follows “Get kids into school.”
And since my soap/candle/bodycare business is called Body Poetry, I’ll be able to work it in the whole biz theme nicely, don’t you think?
Thanks again!
Mostly good advice, Chicken Scratch - but I do want to add a couple of notes. I’m an MT working out of my home, and there are a few considerations; one is that since my fees aren’t split with a business owner, I have lower session prices than area spas. A second is that I don’t have to work to the clock - most sessions I do last 90 minutes, often longer. I don’t charge for the extra time. I also provide my own linens, creams and oils, and offer a wide variety of teas to my clients. Just working from home doesn’t mean that the cost of doing business is zero.
I agree that tipping isn’t expected, but a bonus for good service - I just wanted to point out that just because an MT doesn’t work out of a spa/office/club, it doesn’t mean that tipping is ruled out.
bodypoet, if you’re interested in classes, you might be able to find a one-day or weekend workshop that will give you an introduction before you drop a lot of cash on full tuition. A lot of community colleges offer such things, and they’re pretty cheap. That’s how I got hooked!
Y’know, with a name like Chicken Scratch, I kinda hoped you WEREN’T a massage therapist!