A No-Stress Guide to What Should (and Shouldn’t) Happen During a Massage

Let’s be real—getting a traditional massage can be an amazing reset... but also a little nerve-wracking if you’re not sure what to expect. Whether you’re booking your first appointment or you’ve had a few and still feel a little awkward about it (relatable), knowing what should happen during a session—and what absolutely shouldn’t—can make all the difference.

This is your no-stress cheat sheet to massage etiquette, boundaries, and how to feel fully safe and supported on the table.

What should happen during a massage?

Think of a good massage as a conversation—except mostly nonverbal and very chill. Here’s what’s totally normal and expected:

• You’re in charge of comfort. That means you choose how much clothing you keep on, how much you want to talk (or not), and whether you’d like to pause or stop at any time. It’s your body. Your call.

• Only the area being worked on is uncovered. Draping is standard, and you should feel warm, safe, and covered throughout your session.

• The massage follows your preferences. Pressure should never feel overwhelming. You can always ask for more, less, or a switch-up mid-session. A respectful practitioner will welcome your feedback.

• Clear communication up front. Most massage professionals start by asking what areas you want to focus on, any spots to avoid, and how you’re feeling that day. That convo sets the tone—and it matters.

What shouldn’t happen? Glad you asked.

There’s no room for confusion when it comes to boundaries. These are the red flags:

• Unexpected or uncomfortable touch. Nothing should happen outside the areas discussed beforehand.

• Vague or unclear explanations. If you’re unsure what’s about to happen, pause and ask. A good massage shouldn’t leave you guessing.

• Pressure to stay silent. You should always feel safe speaking up—whether it’s about the pressure, temperature, music, or anything else.

If anything feels off, it’s okay to end the session. Trust your gut.

Not quite ready to be in someone else’s hands?

We get it. That’s actually one of the reasons Aescape exists—to give people a wellness-first massage experience where they can stay fully in control.

Our AI-powered massage system lets you personalize your session on your terms. Choose where to focus, adjust pressure and pace, and even select your playlist—all with a few taps. No awkward convos. No guessing what’s next. Just a calming, customizable experience designed around you.

Massage doesn’t have to be mysterious

Whether you’re into the tradition of hands-on massage or prefer something more tech-forward and private, your comfort is everything. Start with what feels good in your body—and don’t be afraid to set boundaries.

Let us know you enjoyed this read by booking a massage and using code BLOG for $10 off your first session (30 minutes and up!). Wanna share your thoughts? We’d love to hear from you. Give us a shout at @LetsAescape on social!