Too much talking during a massage is one of the most commonly cited reasons that clients change therapists, especially when the therapist natters on about their own life and problems. Not relaxing! I do my best to avoid chit-chat with my clients, especially when one of their goals for the massage is to relax and relieve stress. Quiet gives you a place to relax, focus on your body, and unwind. And it helps me focus on the massage, not on what you’re talking about. With that said, during any massage, I will ask questions about pressure, encourage you to breath deeply, and check in on your comfort. Once in a while, it’s therapeutic for a client to talk through what’s causing them stress or anxiety. Notice, that the client is talking, not me! And occasionally, when a client is in for a therapeutic massage focused on a particular problem, they don’t really care that much about overall relaxation. But I must admit that I do occasionally find myself beginning to chat with my clients and have to remind myself not to engage in conversation during the massage. Sometimes I really have to bite my tongue because I find my clients so interesting and want to learn more about them, or a friend is on the table and I want to catch up. In those situations, I’ll often state that we don’t need to talk during the massage, and encourage quiet. I also allow a little time after your massage to talk. If you find me or any other therapist talking more than you like, try this phrase, “I’d really like to relax and not talk today”. Any therapist worth their salt will get your hint and be quiet! |








