We all like to be fondled and made a fuss of. If warmth, comfort, cleanliness and privacy accompany this, you can relax and enjoy the sheer physical pleasure of the massage and the euphoric state of mind it induces.

The reason you are going for a massage is because you want to feel good. Perhaps it is to break down built up tensions, or to soothe aching muscles, but generally it is because you like to be given some intimate personal attention. You may only want to have on part of your body treated, i.e. feet, facial or back... do ask for what you want.

It is beneficial to shower before your treatment either before you leave home or at the clinic if it has the facilities. If you are comfortable it is better to be naked, or if shy, leave your knickers on.

Remember to inform the therapist of any health problems or concerns that you may have for both yours and the therapists peace of mind.

Do you want a full body massage or just a partial massage?
Massage approaches around the world vary in both philosophy and practice. Many 'politically minded" service providers will never touch or massage the breasts, buttocks or inner thighs and will at all times keep these areas including the genitals covered. Other therapists will with the clients permission, massage the breasts and deep into the groin to help achieve the desired outcome. In other massage systems like lomi lomi and various forms of holistic bodywork, your body may be completely uncovered.

So if you are shy about any part of your body, it is your duty to inform the therapist of this prior to the commencement of the massage and of course you can leave your knickers on, but it is always more comfortable to remove your bra.

You may prefer a very vigorous massage or be soothed with soft techniques. At no time should massage be unpleasant or painful although in therapy for very tense or strained muscles you may find the treatment causes some discomfort but should not exceed your tolerance level and you need to be able to relax into this form of treatment for it to be effective. The therapist although often intuitive is not a mind reader, you must ask for your needs and desires in your treatment.

You may be left to have a short rest after massage treatment. This aids further relaxation and after the treatment do drink plenty of water to help flush toxins from your body.

Massage Time
The time taken to perform a massage can be anything from a 10 minute neck and shoulder release to 2 or 3 hours of bliss.

The Massage Medium
An organic soft non-sticky wax, balm or oil without odour which spreads easily and washes off without trouble is to be preferred. Oils such as sweet almond, avocado, grapeseed, rosehip, canola and others are suitable. Fragrance can be added with essential oils which are often used to assist relaxation and help heal your body.

Massage and Sex
If this is all you want you are better served by going to a massage parlour or brothel.

Massage due to it's nature can be interpreted as sexual and you may feel aroused during treatment. This does not imply in anyway that the therapist wants or wishes to create any sexual relationship. However to feel aroused is normal, we are sexual beings.  If during a massage you feel aroused, you can ask the therapist to work more in a less sensitive area or engage in conversation as a distraction. Generally women may enjoy a warm inner glow without the therapists knowledge, however for men, getting an erection can be more embarrassing but your therapist will not have any judgment or take advantage of your vulnerability.

Massage in your Home or Hotel
When you make your booking you need to specify your requirements to the therapist as to the type of massage and the length of time. You must have your room warm as once oil is applied, your body will cool down. We recommend a room temperature of about 25 degrees. You may be treated on a bed, or a blanket on the floor, or the therapist may bring a massage table to set up, which ever, you will also need to check that you will not be unduly disturbed. (Take the phone off the hook)

Fees
In New Zealand there are some beneficiaries and gifted amateurs who will offer treatments from as little as NZ$15.00 per hour. However qualified therapists charge anything from NZ$30.00 to over $100.00 per hour depending on their level of expertise.
In The USA, a good massage can be as much as US$200.00 per hour.

What should I do if I am unhappy with my massage treatment?
The rare problems that may occur are caused by misunderstandings and can easily be resolved by discussing your concerns with the therapist directly but are avoided by being clear as to what you require and your comfort boundaries during your initial booking and consultation.

To ensure you get a good treatment:
Good communication is extremely important. You need to let the therapist know of any health information that might interfere with your session. You also need to let them know what you want and expect from the massage as well. During the session make sure to open your mouth and give feedback about the pressure, speed of movement or anything that bothers you, you need to let the therapist know so as to ensure you get a good treatment and the therapist can perform his or her work. 
Do your best to relax during the session and keep breathing as sometimes holding your breath will make you tense.

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