Massage is one of the most ancient and widespread forms of medical treatment. An ancient Chinese text from 2700 B.C. recommends massage as a cure for a wide variety of ailments; depictions of Egyptian pharaohs show them receiving massages; Julius Caesar received a daily massage for a pain condition. Massage requires a certain level of physical intimacy between practitioner and patient, and it's important for the health of both parties to maintain a sanitary environment.
The Room
Performing a sanitary massage starts well before the person who is receiving the massage walks in the door. Keep the room where you'll be giving your massage clean and spare. Try to avoid heavy fabric drapes or thick carpeting, as these may trap dirt, dust, and allergens.
Make sure your massage table is flat and smooth. Wash all towels and linens on the table between each client with hot water and soap.
Some massage therapists choose to use aromatherapy candles, incense, or other fragrances in the room as they give a massage. This is a personal choice, and many therapists find that it helps their client relax. But some people may be allergic to certain ingredients in these candles, and besides, not everyone likes the same scents. As a rule of thumb, the best smell is often no smell at all.
The Massage
The massage therapist should take a number of precautions to ensure a sanitary massage. First, apply hand sanitizer before you begin the massage, or just wash your hands very thoroughly with hot water and soap. Also, if your client appears to have any open wounds or running sores on the area where you'll be massaging, either end the massage or continue while wearing gloves. Finally, if you're feeling ill, simply take a day off; there's no reason to give someone a massage if you're going to get him sick.
Your personal hygiene is important both as a sanitary procedure and as a courtesy. Wear clean clothes, bathe regularly, and make sure your breath is smelling good before you get too close to a client. Massage is all about comfort, and a little cleanliness can go a long way in that department.
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