10 Ways to Customize a Massage Session

10 Ways to Customize a Massage Session

Clients LOVE feeling like VIPs and receiving a massage thoughtfully designed just for them! Depending on your pricing strategy, some of these ideas will be included, and some will be add-ons. 

1. Music—Have several playlists available for clients to choose from. You could even include guided meditations or seasonal selections. Over the years, I've had clients request classical music and piano music and ask specifically NOT to have flute music or ambient sounds. 

2. Aromatherapy - Offer several choices of single oils or blends. Aromatherapy is an easy and inexpensive way to add value and customize a massage session. 

3. Service enhancements such as paraffin wax, body brushing, hot stone, cupping, or foot or hand scrub. You can customize your massage upgrade suggestions during your consultation or offer upgrades through your online booking, confirmation, or intake paperwork. Enhancement menus in the treatment room are also a great reminder!

4. Keep some ice packs available to use when needed in a massage session. This one is so easy, but most people don't apply ice when they should! You can educate your clients and elevate their results with a simple ice pack. You could even let them take it home as a gift. 🎁

5. Have several options for adding heat to a session. A table warmer, thermophore, rice bags, heated booties or a heat lamp are great options! There is nothing worse than being cold during a massage. Just be sure to check in with your clients on their temperature preferences. 

6. Customize the time. Who says you can't offer a 45-minute or 75-minute session? Even if it's not on your menu, offer it if you have time, and it would be a good option for your client. This works well when a client requests to focus on multiple areas and you have extra time in your schedule. 

7. Provide take-home information on stress relief, stretches, or other home care. Be sure to print your business information on them. You could also email your homecare recommendations or have a "massage clients only" password-protected page on your website. Remember what you recommended and follow up at their next session. 

8. Offer a choice of tea, water, or healthy juice after a session—or a nice hot beverage in the winter! By keeping a few options available, you can keep your massage clients hydrated and feeling special. 

9. Ask if your client wants to start face up or face down. Some people have a preference. You can also suggest starting prone or supine based on their areas of concern for the day. 

10. Listen and read your client intake form, then plan your session with your client's input!

Let your client know where you will start and how you plan to work on their problem areas. One of the biggest complaints of massage clients is not feeling heard and not having their areas of concern addressed. See if they want only specific work in their massage session or full body as well.

Then give them a fabulous customized treatment, and of course, invite them back.