Studio

Overview

Massage occurs in a room separated from others receiving a massage. This may be a dedicated room or a walled off space in a larger massage facility.

Benefits

• Privacy: Dedicated room allows for greater privacy. This may allow client to fully disrobe if appropriate sheets for draping are present
• Customization: Light, music, temperature, and scent may be adjustable to the preference of the customer

Equipment options

• Couples room: A larger studio may allow a couple to experience massage together as two massage therapists operate in tandem.
• Stereo: Specific types of music may enhance the massage experience
• Heater: A room heater may be available to increase temperature and promote relaxation
• Ceiling bars: Popular in several Asian massage styles, these bars allow the therapist to balance and control pressure while walking on the client’s back
• Padded or heated table: Special massage tables allow for greater comfort and relaxation via heat or extra padding

Potential issues:

• Safety: Client is alone with the therapist behind a closed door. Appropriate boundaries and precautions should be established to ensure credentials of massage therapist and to maintain a professional setting
• Communication: Ensure that therapist and client both have similar expectations for focus of appointment, techniques to be used, parts of body to be treated, and number of minutes of actual therapy.