I guess it depends what a client comes to you for. If its just a pamper session then I let they gibber away to their hearts content. If its healing then talking should be discouraged. Both client and therapist need to be 'connected' and focused on the healing. Any 'counseling' should be left till after the massage is over.
I would feel rude asking someone to shut up, even if it's for their own good! 🙂 I just try not to encourage them... What do you tell them?
Actually, I did tell my mum but she can't shut up even if I ask! 😀
I would feel rude asking someone to shut up, even if it's for their own good! 🙂 I just try not to encourage them... What do you tell them?
As part of the consultation process I explain that they will get the most benefit from the treatment if they relax, let go and concentrate on their breathing (I go into a bit more detail). If they want to chat that's up to them. I don't stop them. After the treatment, while I'm going through the aftercare, I explain a bit more about the active roll the client has in the healing process.
I could go on all day on this subject but I'm going to stop and let someone else chip in.
I could write a book, but wouldn't!
On the receiving end, however.... I once booked in for a simple relaxation massage at a very busy spa, and was ushered into a room by a tall, well-kempt female. She pointed at the table, then pointed at the chair - I presumed that I was to undress, put my stuff on the table, then get onto the couch. I did as I was told. In silence. When I was on the couch, she draped me and then simply stood beside me with her eyes closed, hands together (reminded me of Les Dawson being Sadie - have to say I smiled!). Anyway. She turned away from me to oil her hands, and I said "This is a very peaceful room in such a busy building", and she turned on me like a cobra - "SHHHHHH - I WILL HAVE NO CONVERSATION" - so I didn't say another word, not even goodbye. I paid at reception but never went back!
Guess her book, unlike mine, won't have many chapters! I love some of the random things my clients say - especially the kids.
:eek::rollaugh::rollaugh::rollaugh:HILARIOUS! you think she had many clients???
I once had a guy come for a session who confessed to being a transvestite - and following the session showed me a picture of himself, in his full and favourite female attire!!
I wonder why he had the picture on him?
I love what people tell me during a session. I have had many guys tell me stuff they haven't told their partners.
J
Laughter is the best medicine
I had a man tell me a VERY rude joke at the beginning of a session not long ago. ANd it was VERY funny!! It made me rock with laughter, and him too, and we both laughed on and off for much of the session. He said it was the best massage I'd ever done!
I wonder why he had the picture on him?
That's an easy question to answer - it's because it's part of his identity and he's proud of it. In much the same way you get men in the TA showing you photos of themselves in their uniforms. I am Facebook friends with lots of crossdressers, and they only post photos of themseves in female clothing. Crossdressing is nothing to be ashamed of, so why not show folk you like pictures of other parts of your life?
Ava x
Hi All
When I'm a paying client I just climb on the table & fall asleep so not really responsive if a therapist wants to chat.
As a therapist I was trained if a client wants to talk it's ok & if they want to be quiet that's also fine. Either way they're usually relaxed & quiet by the end of a session.
Personally I like a mix with some quiet & some chatty clients. Don't think I'd cope with silence or talk all day so it's good to have a combination.
now come on Derek - we NEED to hear that joke!!
Love Melanie x
now come on Derek - we NEED to hear that joke!!
Love Melanie x
Melanie I can't!! It really was very rude and I haven't told even my best friend.
If I posted it on here I'd be booted out and probably have some government official knocking on my door within minutes!
Derek xx
As a client, I also prefer to relax and concentrate on the massage.
As a therapist, I play it by ear. If the client wants to talk, that's fine. It doesn't usually take long for them to fall into silence or fall asleep. I did have a couple of clients apologise for not talking so now I will let them know they will get more out of it if they relax and concentrate on the massage.