New to massages and have a massage appointment coming up? You might be stressing about trying to figure out what the right outfit for your massage is.
But don’t worry – we have you covered!
Here’s what you need to know about what to wear to a massage:
Try To Wear as Little as Possible
Once you get to your appointment, what usually happens is your massage therapist will ask you to undress to whatever level you are most comfortable with.
This could mean wearing underwear or even going completely nude. At the end of the day, it’s completely up to you how much to undress.
But something to keep in mind is that wearing too much clothing interferes with the ability for your massage therapist to reach deep into the tissues during the massage.
Also, one important aspect of a massage is the human-to-human connection between the masseuse and the client.
The hands, elbows, and sometimes feet in traditional Thai massage, actually touching the skin during the massage are considered healing by many, in and of themselves. Many traditional massages even suggest that clients wear nothing. Understandably, this can create unease for many, especially when members of the opposite sex are involved. But if you can learn to relax, to overcome your shyness, going for your massage in your birthday suit could be ideal!
Keep in mind, massage therapists are professionals so they are understanding to their clients feeling vulnerable if they are naked. To ease the worries, they always take care to cover up your body with towels while focussing on other areas for massage.
If you don’t feel comfortable going completely naked for your massage, there are clothing options you could take that don’t interfere too much with your massage.
Fully Clothed For Your Massage
Massage therapists are typically happy to work around your preferrences, so if you wish to be fully clothed during your massage, make sure you let them know that.
Something to keep in mind is that if you do go fully clothed, try to wear clothes that aren’t too bulky. Something like a t-shirt or yoga pants (for women) are great options.
Wearing Underwear To A Massage
Wearing underwear during a massage is a common strategy to overcome anxiety about being naked in front of your massage therapist.
Try to avoid bulky or ornate underwear for your massage, though – keep it simple!
Sports bras, for example, are better choices because they are sleeker, lighter, and tighter fitting than conventional bras.
Wearing Swimming Suits To A Massage
For some reason, some people feel that swimming suits are less intimate or revealing than underwear.
Perhaps this is because being around strangers in swimming apparel has historically been commonplace at the pool or the beach. In any case, your massage therapist will likely understand.
But this is a totally acceptable thing to wear to a massage!
Remove Accessories
Like bulky clothing, accessories such as earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and watches are all no-nos to wear during your massage.
Ask the clinic staff for a secure personal locker to keep them in, or just take them off at the table and leave them beside you during the duration of the massage.
After your massage, don’t forget to collect your belongings!
How and Where to Dress for Your Massage at the Clinic
Nearly all massage clinics have changing rooms, spacious private areas where you can change your clothes and prepare mentally for your massage.
Whether you are wearing your underwear or going naked, take this time alone while changing to try and relax.
Remind yourself that your massage therapist is there to help you heal, are professionals, and will not judge you. Masseuses see hundreds, often thousands, of clients every year.
Everyone is sometimes insecure about their bodies or feeling vulnerable. Instead of running away, why not take this opportunity to build up the courage to confront your fears?
You might be glad you did!