A first-timer's guide to having a massage

You are thinking of having a massage but are not quite sure what will happen. This article is here to fill that gap — from choosing a massage to after the session.

Which massage should you start with?

Swedish massage. The pressure is light to medium, it covers the whole body and it gives you the clearest idea of what to expect. On menus it is also listed as "classic massage".

Alternatives:

If you like oils and scents → aromatherapy massage
If you want something a little more substantial → Balinese massage
If you would rather not undress → reflexology (only your shoes come off) or shiatsu (fully clothed)
If you have a specific pain → see a doctor first, then a medical massage

Do not start with a deep tissue massage at your first session. The pressure is intense, and it is hard to judge without knowing what is normal.

Length: start with 60 minutes

A 30-minute session usually focuses on a single area (back, neck and shoulders). 60 minutes covers the whole body and is the right length for a first experience. 90 minutes is for those who want to spend longer on problem areas.

How much do you undress?

As much as you feel comfortable with. You do not have to take off your underwear. Throughout the session you are covered with a sheet so that only the area being worked on is uncovered — this is called "draping" and is standard practice.

The therapist leaves the room while you get ready and knocks before coming back in. You start face down and are asked to turn over halfway through; the sheet is held in place while you do, to protect your privacy.

How does the session go?

A short chat. You are asked about any complaints, your health and the pressure you prefer. This is not a formality — what you say shapes the session.
Getting ready. The therapist leaves; you undress, lie face down on the table and get under the sheet.
The session. It usually starts with the back.
The end. The therapist leaves and you get dressed. There is no need to rush.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to talk? No. Staying quiet is completely normal. You are only expected to give feedback on the pressure and any discomfort.

What if the pressure is too much? Say so. Asking "Could you go a little lighter?" is a normal part of the session, and therapists expect it. Gritting your teeth is both unnecessary and counterproductive — massage does not work on a tensed muscle.

Is it rude if I fall asleep? Quite the opposite. Therapists take it as a sign that the session is working.

What if I am ticklish? Say so, and the therapist will increase the pressure — ticklishness usually comes from a very light touch.

Should I tip? In Turkey it is not compulsory, but it is common. If you were happy, you can leave a tip; not leaving one is fine too.

Can I choose the therapist's gender? Yes; it is perfectly normal to say so when you book.

Before the session

Avoid a heavy meal for 1-2 hours beforehand
Arrive 10-15 minutes early
Mention your health conditions and any medication you take
Let them know if you have done hard exercise

After the session

Drink plenty of water
After an aromatherapy or oil massage, do not shower for a few hours
Avoid hard exercise that day
Mild muscle tenderness the next day is normal

When not to have a massage

Postpone it if you have an illness with a fever, an active skin infection or an open wound, and in the first days after a fresh injury.

Conditions that need your doctor's approval: Pregnancy, uncontrolled blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, a history of deep vein thrombosis, advanced varicose veins, a bleeding disorder, taking blood thinners, osteoporosis, recent surgery, ongoing cancer treatment.

This does not mean you cannot have a massage — with the right information and a suitable technique, it is possible in most cases. What matters is that both your doctor and your therapist know about your condition.