What Not to Do During a Deep Tissue or Therapeutic Massage? Etiquette & Safety Tips from The Mark of Massage

At The Mark of Massage in Castle Rock, Colorado, I’ve been providing safe, professional therapeutic massage (including deep tissue, sports, trigger point, prenatal, hot stone, Esalen, and structural integration) since 2004. Whether it’s an in-home mobile session (within ~30 minutes of my home office at 216 Douglas Fir Ave, 80104) or a private visit to my lower-level space (fully secluded sessions, though you might hear occasional family sounds from upstairs outside the room), the session is about your comfort, relaxation, and results.

Here are the most important things not to do during your massage—so you and your therapist can both have the best possible experience:

1. Don’t Hold Your Breath or Tense Up

When pressure feels intense (especially in deep tissue or on trigger points), many people instinctively hold their breath or tense their muscles. This makes the work less effective (muscles guard instead of releasing) and can increase discomfort.

Instead: Breathe deeply and slowly through your nose and out through your mouth. Exhale during firmer pressure—it helps the muscle relax and lets the therapist go deeper safely.

2. Don’t Be Silent If Something Feels Wrong

Never suffer in silence if the pressure is too much, too light, an area feels off, or you’re uncomfortable (e.g., cold, need more blanket, music too loud).

Instead: Speak up right away—“That’s a bit too deep,” “Can we lighten up here?” or “I’m cold, can we add a blanket?” Good therapists (including me) want and expect feedback in real time to adjust immediately.

3. Don’t Move Suddenly or Abruptly

Sudden movements (e.g., jerking an arm or leg) can cause injury or disrupt the flow.

Instead: If you need to adjust position, tell the therapist first (“I need to move my arm”) so they can support you safely.

4. Don’t Engage in Heavy or Personal Conversation

Avoid deep personal topics, politics, religion, or anything that requires the therapist to respond extensively. It distracts from the work and can make the therapist uncomfortable.

Instead: Quiet conversation is fine (e.g., about your pain patterns or preferences), but most clients prefer silence or light chat. I follow your lead—if you want quiet, I’ll stay quiet.

5. Don’t Touch the Therapist

Never touch, grab, or guide the therapist’s hands/body during the session (even if you’re trying to “help” them find a spot). It crosses professional boundaries and can be interpreted as inappropriate.

Instead: Use your words—“Can you work more on my left shoulder blade?” or “That knot is a little lower.”

6. Don’t Request or Expect Sexual Services

Professional therapeutic massage is never sexual. Any suggestion of sexual touch, nudity beyond comfort level, or erotic intent is strictly prohibited and can end the session immediately.

Instead: Focus on your therapeutic goals—pain relief, mobility, recovery. That’s what I’m here for.

7. Don’t Fall Asleep in a Way That Blocks Work (Minor Note)

Light dozing is common and fine, but if you’re snoring loudly or shifting positions unconsciously, it can make it harder for the therapist to work effectively.

Instead: Just relax—most people naturally stay still enough.

Following these simple guidelines makes the session safer, more effective, and more enjoyable for both of us. Your comfort and clear communication are always the priority.

Ready for your next session? Book today—whether deep tissue, sports recovery, or a custom blend, I’ll make sure it’s tailored perfectly to you.

Sources for Verification (based on 2025–2026 professional etiquette and therapist guidelines):

•  AMTA Code of Ethics & Massage Etiquette Guides: Emphasizes client/therapist boundaries, communication, no sexual intent (https://www.amtamassage.org/publications/massage-therapy-journal/massage-etiquette/)

•  Real Simple & Reader’s Digest: Don’t tense up, speak up, avoid heavy conversation, no touching therapist (https://www.realsimple.com/work-life/work-life-etiquette/massage-etiquette; https://www.rd.com/article/massage-etiquette/)

•  Various therapist blogs (e.g., Mind & Body Sioux City, Spa Theory): Breathe deeply, communicate discomfort, no sudden movements (https://www.mindandbodysiouxcity.com/6-massage-etiquette-questions/)

Your relaxation and results matter most—hope to see you soon at The Mark of Massage! 😊