MyMassage FAQ’s
Whether you are booking an appointment for therapeutic reasons or just for some pampering, a massage can have many health advantages. You may have heard all the benefits of what a massage can offer but booking your first massage may leave you wondering about a few things. Am I supposed to leave a tip? What if I am self-conscious about certain parts of my body? Here are a few frequently asked questions about Massage Therapy you may have before coming in for your massage.
If you have a question that is not quite answered here please contact us and we will be more than happy to respond.
First, we get to the questions that you might be embarrassed to ask your Massage Therapist
Am I supposed to leave a tip and how much?
Tipping is not compulsory but always appreciated by your therapist. She will feel validated for a job well done and rewarded for the pride and extra care she put into her profession. Typically in South Africa tipping at Spas is 10-15% of the total cost of the services.
Do I have to take off my underwear?
Massages at MyMassage are always done with oil which necessitates removing your garments. Removing your undergarments is not necessary for you to receive a massage. For men we recommend that they keep their undergarments on but our female clients can choose to remove all if that makes them enjoy their massage more fully.
Is it discourteous to request a female therapist?
MyMassage only employs female therapists.
What if I drool all over the face cradle or fart during my massage?
Keep in mind that during your massage your circulation will increase, your digestion will be promoted and most of the time the aim of the treatment is to get you to relax. It is likely that you may drool and some do more than others. Farting on the other hand sometimes can’t be avoided and is acceptable as long as it’s not intentional.
What if I am self-conscious about certain parts of my body?
If you’re uncomfortable with getting a specific area treated don’t be embarrassed to mention it to your therapist. Remember that everything is confidential. Those areas can be avoided. If it is an area that needs to be addressed there are other options, such as treating through the sheets. Discuss this with your therapist. Your massage therapist are very experienced and there isn’t much that they haven’t seen or dealt with.
Is it OK to pass gas during my massage?
Listen, farthing is a natural bodily function and sometime it cannot be controlled. In most the therapist will ignore it. While your therapist won’t mind a few toots, they understandably don’t want a gas bomb going off in the typically small massage room. So if you’ve got a lot of gas or need to use the bathroom, it’s okay to pause the session and visit the restroom. Same thing goes for needing to pee, or simply blow your nose. It’s okay to call a timeout.
Is there parking near MyMassage and is free?
MyMassage Greenpoint is located on main street on the corner of York and Main in Greenpoint. There is ample FREE parking on Main road and on York. On Main Road there is a large municipal parking across the road from us.
How do I organise a Gift Certificate?
There are several ways to request a Gift Certificate. Our staff will be happy to assist as soon as you send in your request. To speed up the whole process please provide us with the name (first and last) of receiving party, their email id, mobile number and the message that you want us to put on the certificate on your behalf.
1) Click on this link (https://mymassage.co.za/gift-certificate/) and fill out the small form and hit Submit
2) At the bottom of each page there is always a button that says “Gift Certificate”. Clicking on this button will take you to our Gift Certificate section where you will be able to fill out the small form and hit Submit.
3) Write an email to contact@mymassage.co.za and send your request details.
Should I take off all my clothes during my treatment?
The therapists use professional draping techniques to ensure your privacy at all times. Although some treatments are best performed with less clothing, every action is taken to ensure discretion. The therapist will leave the room while you disrobe and position yourself for the treatment, but if this would make you feel uncomfortable then you can wear your underwear. The therapist will protect your right of privacy and comfort at all times.
Men are always recommended to keep their underwear on. If for any reason a man cannot comply, the man must discuss the issue with his therapist before the massage begins.
Does MyMassage cater for men?
Yes! There is a large number of men who know the benefits of getting a massage to unwind or kick start a healthy lifestyle. MyMassage premises are equal access to all genders and identifications.
We do however remind our male clients to be mindful that their therapists are professionals and that they must respect their professional and keep their hands and thoughts strictly to themselves. MyMassage reserves the right to terminate a service or deny service to any client at any time.
Are facial treatments only for women?
No! Men are welcome to try our facials and other treatments.
Can I come alone?
Of course! A large number of people do go by themselves. It is often the best way to get the most out of your relaxing break, not having to worry about anyone but yourself. Most spa’s are used to this and you certainly will not be the only one.
What about my comfort?
When you take a spa treatment, it is your time. So tell the therapist what makes you feel comfortable, whether it is the room temperature, the amount of massage pressure, the volume of music or even the therapist themselves. You can even write to us ahead of time so that we can make the proper arrangements before you arrive.
What if I have questions about the treatment?
We encourage you to communicate any questions or concerns with your spa therapist that you may have concerning your body treatment. We hope that this open communication will raise your comfort level, allowing you to receive full benefits from the treatment. Please also let your therapist know if you prefer a deep massage or a soft touch, and don’t be afraid to tell your therapist whether they are massaging to hard or to soft.
What if I am menstruating? Can I still participate in spa services?
For almost all services that is not a problem. Please notify the therapist if you are getting a waxing treatment.
What if I am pregnant? Can I still come to the spa?
Absolutely! A spa gives you the perfect opportunity to relax. It is safe for you to indulge in massage, facials, reflexology and aesthetic services. We have pregnancy treatments specifically for pregnant women. It is important to always inform your therapist that you are pregnant before beginning any treatment.
Are there any medical conditions that would prevent me from receiving certain treatments?
Yes! If you have broken bones its probably a good idea to avoid massaging those areas. However, certain conditions such as high or low blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes are not suitable for certain treatments. If you have a condition which you have questions about, please speak to your therapist about your concerns. If you have any queries contact our us and we will be happy to assist you.
Does waxing hurt?
Many people are surprised to find that it does not hurt as much as they expected it to. It feels like a bandage being pulled off. The pain is minor in some areas and much more painful in other more sensitive areas. The sting lasts a split second, and may feel tender when touched for the next few hours. Your body adjusts with continued waxing, so each session becomes less painful and is finished more rapidly.
If you are planning on a Bikini wax, schedule it in the middle of your monthly cycle, not directly before or during. It is an uncomfortable procedure, but the therapists do try and make it as painless as possible. By using baby powder and good technique, the therapists can significantly lower the amount of pain that comes from the waxing. Also you can prevent sensitivity, and minimize redness and swelling by taking an over the counter Ibuprofen 45 minutes before your appointment (please note: If you have a medical condition, please consult the pharmacist before you purchase the anti-inflammatory).
How long before hair reappears and how long does the hair have to be before waxing?
After your first waxing, the results can last 3 to 6 weeks depending on the individual’s hair re-growth. In most cases the hair growth is minimal during the first week or two and noticeably increases in the third and fourth week. Heat also stimulates hair growth, therefore hair grows quicker in summer than in winter. With regular waxing the length of time between treatments will increase and the hair is generally finer. Eventually some hair never grows back. It is generally recommended that your hair is at least 7 millimetres minimal before you have a wax.
What guidelines should I follow to minimize irritation and possible break-outs after waxing?
Avoid the sun immediately after waxing. Recently waxed areas are prone to Hyperpigmentation (permanent darkening of the skin) if exposed to the sun.
Avoid heavy exercise for at least 24 hours after waxing.
Avoid saunas, steam rooms, whirlpools and other heated sources for at least 48 hours.
Do not use exfoliating products and loofas at least 24 hours after waxing. Your body will tell you.
Avoid tight clothing after waxing, especially in the waxed areas. Tight clothing may cause irritation and ingrown hairs.
Routine waxing helps the skin get accustomed to the procedure and may minimize irritation.
Unfortunately no shower or oral sex for 10 hours after a Brazilian.
Products are available that can be applied topically to avoid in-grown hairs and conditions the skin for better waxing results.
When should I not get a massage?
You should not go for a massage if it can make an underlying medical condition worse, and you don’t want to pass anything contagious to the therapist. If you are unsure whether a minor condition should prohibit you from getting a massage, it is best to consult with your doctor before proceeding.
If you have the following conditions, you should NOT get a massage.
Fever
Any type of infectious disease
Systemic infections
Sever cold
Fracture, bleeding, burns or other acute injury
Liver and kidney disease
Blood clot
Pregnancy induced diabetes, toxemia, preeclampsia/eclampsia
High blood pressure (unless under control with medication)
Open skin lesions or sores (therapist may work around them if localized)
Is there an age restriction?
Most health spa’s do not allow children, and have a minimum age restriction of 13. However, children with a doctor’s referral may be admitted and a treatment will be selected accordingly.
What should I expect during my first massage therapy visit?
Please click here for indepth information https://mymassage.co.za/massage-session/
What is included in the session time?
A session consists of massage, time for you to dress and undress and time to communicate with the therapist to make your massage truly customized. This is done to ensure each and every massage session you receive from MyMassage meets or exceeds your expectations.
How early should I arrive for my massage?
New clients should arrive 10 minutes prior to their massage to fill out paperwork and meet with their therapist prior to their treatment. Returning clients should arrive 5 minutes prior to their session.
Which massage is right for me?
Every massage type has its benefits for different reasons. Talk freely with your therapists so that you can both arrive at a suitable massage for you. What you share may be personal but rest assured that all information is kept confidential.
If you are new to massage therapy, we recommend that you start with a nice gentle massage like our RESET massage which is based on Swedish strokes.
What do I do during a massage treatment?
Make yourself comfortable and relax your body from any held tension. You can dose off during your massage – which is really beautiful but also a big complement to your therapist. If your therapist wants you to adjust your position, she/he will either move you or will ask you to move what is needed. Otherwise, change your position anytime to make yourself more comfortable.
Many people close their eyes and relax completely during a session; others prefer to talk. It’s up to you. It is your massage, and whatever feels natural to you is the best way to relax. Do not hesitate to ask questions at any time.
Can I talk during my session?
Sure, if you’d like to talk go right ahead. The important thing to remember is that this treatment is all about you relaxing and enjoying the experience. Some therapists may discourage talking in hopes that you will relax, let your mind float free and enter a state of massage bliss.
In many instances, people may feel more relaxed starting off talking, and as the massage progresses, enter quiet states of relaxation.
Most important, there are times when you need to speak up. If the therapist is doing anything to make you uncomfortable, you should let her/him know immediately. Also, let him/her know if you get too warm or too cold, if the room is too bright, or if the pressure needs to be changed (lighter or deeper). If something is not working for you, speak up! It’s OK!
How long will a massage treatment last?
All massage treatments begin and end on time. You are more than welcome to arrive 10 minutes early for your session to allow time to get on the table without interfering with your scheduled time.
30-Minute Massage: Half-hour appointments only allow time for a partial massage session, such as neck and shoulders, back or legs and feet.
60-Minute, 90 Minute Massages: The average full-body massage treatment lasts approximately one hour or longer if you choose.
Many people prefer a 60 to 90-minute session for optimal relaxation. Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session.
Will the massage hurt?
This depends on the type of massage and the depth of the strokes. A light, relaxing massage that does not probe very deep into the muscles, should not hurt. With that being said, there is a ‘feels good’ hurt and an ‘ouch, stop it’ hurt. A good massage, even a really deep tissue massage, should always stay in the ‘feels good’ hurt range.
Pain can be an indication that the muscle is possibly injured or inflamed and pressure should be adjusted. Also, pain can cause you to tighten up and negate the relaxing effects of the massage. The most effective and deepest massage always works with your body’s natural response, not against it.
How often should I get a massage?
“Something is better than nothing.” What does that mean? Well, it varies from person to person. If you are just looking for some occasional relaxation, then a session every 3-6 weeks may be fine for you. However, if you are looking to address a specific condition, then it is recommended to go more frequently at first and then slowly taper down to a maintenance schedule. Sometimes more frequent 60-minute sessions can be effective until your goals are met and a maintenance schedule is in place.
Frequency of sessions should be discussed with your massage therapist after your treatment when he/she has a better hands-on understanding of your particular muscular issues.
How many sessions will I need?
Honestly, it’s hard to say. Every person is unique and every condition is unique to each person. It may take one session or it may take several. You and your therapist will be able to talk more specifically about this after your first session and he/she has had a chance to evaluate your body’s tissues.
Do I have to listen to meditation or new age music during my massage?
No you don’t. While many therapists play slower, quieter, ‘new age’ type music, you can choose to have different music or no music at all. Studies have shown that music at under 60 beats-per-minute have a calming, relaxing effect on the body and therefore can enhance your experience.
However, while this may be true, any music you like to listen to while you relax can be played while you get a massage. If it relaxes you and you enjoy it at home, why would it not do the same during your treatment? It is perfectly okay to bring your own music with you to your session.
How will I feel after my massage treatment?
Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience a significant decrease or freedom from long-term aches and pains. Many feel a little slowed down for a short period and then notice an increase of energy, heightened awareness and increased productivity which can last for days.
If you received a deep massage, you may be slightly sore the next day – much like a good workout at the gym. Sometimes a hot shower or a soak in the tub can ease this soreness.
After your session you should increase your water intake. Just a glass or two more than normal is usually fine. This helps keep your body’s tissues hydrated and healthy.
Are there any cancellation fees?
At this time there are no cancellation fees at MyMassage. But this does not mean that you should not do the right thing and cancel with ample notice time. We prefer that you cancel at least 24 hours in advance of your appointment time.
Do you do “sensual” massages?
NO WE DO NOT – FULL STOP.
MyMassage is not that kind of a place! We run a professional therapy spa. Don’t ask about sexual favours (or even joke about them). Duh. Just don’t do it and don’t even make a passing joke about it. At best, you’ll offend your therapist; at worst, you’ll be kicked out, and for good.