Does my massage therapist judge my body?

24th June 2024

I have a confession. 

I've never had a professional massage. 

Ever. 

Then I decided to become a massage therapist. 

It's something I'd always wanted to do, but knew that students had to practice on each other during the course and I just couldn't bear the thought that my classmates would be judging my stretch marks, cellulite and wobbly bits. I didn't see how I could ever relax with some near-stranger judging me when I was most vulnerable. It took until my late thirties for me to pluck up the courage and take an intro to massage course. 

I loved it.

Yes, it was awkward at first. Yes I felt like the fattest person to have ever climbed on a massage bed. But there's something about that slide into 40 that just makes you finally stand up for yourself and stop apologising for not being whatever the most popular version of body shape is at that particular time. 

Side note - I remember the 90s, when Kate Moss was deemed the ideal woman and having a big bum was seen as a bad thing. Now it's very much the opposite. Just goes to show, if you wait long enough, you'll eventually come into style.

So, to the main question of this blog: does your massage therapist judge your body?

I can't speak for others, but for me, it's a no.

And I'll tell you why:

1) I wouldn't want anyone to judge me, so why would I judge others?

2) I'm concentrating on assessing areas of your body which are holding tension, seem tender/injured or need more work to release.

3) Peforming massages is a mindful activity for me. I'm not thinking about what I'll have for my tea; I'm not thinking about what work I need to do later, and I'm certainly not thinking about judging your body. I'm just fully focussed on you, your needs and making you feel relaxed, pampered and cared about for the short time I'm with you; because that's what I'd like from a massage. 

So, if you've held back from having therapies in the past because you're worried about what the masseuse would think, I offer a promise to you today that I won't judge you. You are safe in my hands, no matter what. 

Whatever has been holding you back, stretch marks, self-harm scars, if you're undergoing gender transition, loose skin, amputations or being fuller figured; I promise that I will accept you as you are and make you feel as comfortable as possible.

Having a massage can be a very vulnerable experience for some people and so my clients are in full control of their therapies. Requested changes or adaptations are accepted without the need for explanation. It's your therapy and your time. 

So, if you're thinking of taking the plunge, feel free to get in touch and discuss your needs and wants on 07726 471 318 or drop me an email at thewellbeingservice@gmail.com. You can also get in touch via Instagram, Facebook or X (formerly known as Twitter). 

I hope you all have a lovely week and I look forward to hearing from you when the time is right for you.

All the best,

Sarah