Desi Wardrobe Malfunctions

Holistic Massage therapy is one of the oldest methods of healthcare in practice today. It involves use of different manipulative techniques to move the body's muscles and soft tissue. Massage therapy aims to improve blood circulation, increasing the flow of nutrients and eliminating waste products to name but a few.

Massage is the recent name for the ancient-established art of healing by touch. Massage is calming and soothing. It improves our sense of well-being, and reduces the levels of cortisol - the body’s stress hormone. It also strengthens the immune system by bringing more white blood cells into the circulation system, and this in turn helps to fight infection. It also improves joint mobility, releases muscle tension, helps eliminate toxins and assists in tension release. Massage can reduce your heart rate, relax your muscles, improve range of motion in your joints and increase production of your body's natural pain killers. It helps relieve stress and anxiety.

The Dorn Method is a wholistic, gentle, safe, effective and non-manipulative Manual Therapy and Self Help Method to align the spine and joints. It can be used for treating illnesses directly or indirectly connected to the spinal column.

Dorn can be particularly successful in the treatment of back, hip and neck pain, sciatica, leg length difference, scoliosis, headaches and migraines, dizziness, neuralgia, chronic inner conditions and tiredness, eye trouble, ear pain, toothache, sore throat, tonsillitis, sinus problems and joint problems / pains (knee, shoulder, elbow, ankle, jaw).

Dorn is based on the correction of uneven leg length. A leg length discrepancy can lead to a variety of problems, such as headaches, back problems, neck and shoulder pain and even psychological problems. Next the pelvis is checked for any misalignment, followed by lumbar, thoracic and cervical vertebrae checks. Displaced vertebras are brought back into place by the pressure of the thumb on the vertebrae of the spine. There is no bone manipulation, cracking or any other surprising or aggressive moves involved.

The Dorn treatment is combined with a back, neck and shoulder massage. This combination provides a very effective tool to relax and regenerate the whole body. Dorn also promotes the use of better posture in day-to-day life and teaches very simple and quick exercises that help the client to keep the body structure in place.

 CORRECTION IN MOTION TO ACHIEVE BALANCE IN THE BODY

How does it work?

The underlying theory behind reflexology is that there are "reflex" areas on the feet and hands that correspond to specific organs, glands, and other parts of the body.

For example:

He believed that certain areas on the feet and hands were linked to other areas and organs of the body. This concept was furthered by physiotherapist Eunice Ingham into the modern practice of reflexology.

Practitioners believe that applying pressure to these reflex areas can promote health in the corresponding organs through energetic pathways.

Dr. William H. Fitzgerald, an ear, nose, and throat doctor, introduced this concept of "zone therapy" in 1915. American physiotherapist Eunice Ingram further developed this zone theory in the 1930's into what is now knows as reflexology.

A scientific explanation is that the pressure may send signals that balance the nervous system or release chemicals such as endorphins that reduce pain and stress.

What will I feel?

Most people find reflexology for the most part to be very relaxing.

Reflexology shouldn't be painful. If you feel discomfort, be sure to tell the reflexologist. He or she should work within your comfort zone.

Some areas may be tender or sore, and the reflexologist may spend extra time on these points. The soreness should decrease with pressure.

If you're ticklish, not to worry. The reflexologist applies firm pressure to the feet.

How is it Different From Foot Massage?

Foot massage is similar to Swedish massage, the most common type of massage in North America. People typically use massage oil or lotion and use gentle gliding strokes all over the foot. Reflexology is quite different. While many people find reflexology relaxing, it's based on the theory that certain points on the feet correspond to certain organs and body parts and that applying pressure to the areas can promote health in the corresponding parts.

Why do people get reflexology?

Reflexology is a popular alternative therapy. It promotes relaxation, improves circulation, reduces pain, soothes tired feet, and encourages overall healing.

Reflexology is also used for post-operative or palliative care. A study in the American Cancer Society journal found that one-third of cancer patients used reflexology as a complementary therapy.

Reflexology is recommended as a complementary therapy and should not replace medical treatment.

What is a typical reflexology treatment like

A typical treatment is 45 minutes to 60 minutes long and begins with a consultation about your health and lifestyle.

You are then asked to remove your shoes and socks and sit comfortably in a reclining chair or on a massage table. Otherwise you remain fully clothed.

The reflexologist will assess the feet and then stimulates various points to identify areas of tenderness or tension.

The reflexologist then uses brisk movements to warm the feet up. Then pressure is applied from the toes to the heel according to your comfort.

Lotion or oil may be used.

How will I feel after?

Most people feel calm and relaxed after a treatment. They may even feel sleepy.

Occasionally, people feel nauseous, anxious, or tearful, but this is only temporary and is considered to be part of the healing process.

Precautions

If you're pregnant, talk with your doctor first and let the reflexologist know.

Be sure to give the reflexologist a complete and accurate health history. If you have foot ulcers, injury, or blood vessel disease such as blood clots, consult your doctor before having reflexology.

Also known as Yoga massage or Nuad Phaen Boran, Thai massage has been practiced in Thailand for around twenty-five centuries, but its origins are older, in India. As well as acupressure, Thai massage is based on the theory the body is composed by energy points. In this case, at least seventy thousand lines (named “sen”) cross the body, but just ten are fundamentals. Another difference is that Yoga massage also involves compressions and stretches.

Thai massage basically consists on manipulation (part of traditional Thai rites) and peripheral stimulation to generate certain internal effects. It’s characterized by its soothing properties and its emphasis on stretching and loosening the body. Its purpose is clear energy blockages and restitutes balance and harmony to the body. As an application of yoga, patients benefit from the relaxation and curative properties of technique.

Rather than using a table, Thai massage is practiced on a firm mattress over the floor. Patients don't need to undress, except the feet. Practitioners employ their own weight to apply rhythmic pressure in the energy lines, pulling fingers, toes and ears, cracking the knuckles, arching and walking on the client's back, among others movements.

Thai massage also teaches how breathe properly and in its application, oils are only used on the client's palms and soles. Today this massage is a tourist attraction in Thailand and the practitioners are habitually women.

Notice that Thai massage is a millenary standard procedure and rhythm, accepted in several parts of the world because it is one of the more energizing forms of massage.

Is a medical system and a philosophy originated in India around five thousand ago focused on balance the three main body’s constitutional forces: the energy of movement (“vata”), the energy of digestion (“pitta”) and the energy of structure (“kapha”) to improve health and create harmony in life.

Ayurveda helps in general detoxification, relaxation, rejuvenation and enhanced spiritual awareness through gentle exercises. An ayurvedic massage (also known as "panchakarma") uses vigorous massages in the specific energy points ("chakras") with large quantities of warm oils and spices to remove toxins from the system and restore balance to the body. Oils are poured in chakras (like into the ears or between the eyebrows) according to the customized needs of the patient.

Benefits of ayurveda include: vitality, stress reduction, relaxation and deep sense of inner peace. This method is very popular because has demonstrated powerful effects on the mind and nervous system.

It is interesting that ayurveda consider the body’s energy as a combination of five great elements: ether, fire, water, air and earth. The knowledge of the constitution of these elements permit the therapist to determine, not just which ayurvedic massage techniques to apply, but also how to personalize treatments by choosing the appropriate oils, spices and the rate and pressure of massage strokes.

Ayuverdic massage has been modified to meet the needs of Western countries. Today, in United States and Europe ayurvedic medical centers are not centered on the treatment of diseases. They are just resting and relaxing places.

It is a millenary Chinese technique of healing that uses the fingers (and sometimes the toes) to press certain points on the surface of the skin to stimulate the natural self-curative capacity of the human body. When these points (called meridian in Chinese traditional medicine) are pressed, they liberate muscular tension and improve the flow of blood and the body’s life energy (known as “qi”) to help in the healing process.

Acupressure shares the same meridian theory with acupuncture. The difference is that an acupuncturist stimulates points by introducing needles, while an acupressurist stimulates the same points using the firm pressure of hands and feet. That is why acupressure is frequently referred as "needle less acupuncture".

The benefits of acupressure include: alleviated headaches, eye strain, sinus problems, neck pain, backaches, arthritis, muscle pains, tension produced by stress, ulcer pain, menstrual cramps, lower backaches, constipation, and indigestion. Acupressure is also useful relieving anxiety and improving sleep thanks to the release of endorphin's (corporal chemicals that mitigate pain). In general, it aids to balance the body, improves the resistance to illnesses and promotes good health.

It is interesting that in acupressure local symptoms are considered an expression of the entire body's condition caused by the movement of negative energy. When the body’s energy is properly canalized trough the meridians, it not just alleviates pain, but also improves the functioning of organs, even the internals.

Acupressure is becoming more applied in Western countries for its effectiveness tension-related ailments and for its preventative properties. However, be careful with the abrupt application of acupressure or the use of excessive force during session. This could be painful and injurious to health. Greater care should be with pregnant women and when severe skin lesions exist.

Thai Massage is relatively new to modern spas, but it was actually developed by Buddhist monks in Thailand as a healing morality 2,500 years ago. Thai massage uses passive stretching and gentle pressure along the body’s energy lines to increase flexibility, relieve muscle and joint tension and balance the body’s energy systems. Thai massage is both deeply relaxing and energizing.

Thai massage takes place on a futon mat on the floor, and you wear loose fitting clothing. Some spas, like The Mandarin Oriental, Miami, provide you with an outfit to wear. Others may ask you to wear something loose and comfortable, like sweat pants, during your Thai massage. You start by lying on your back, and the therapist uses gentle compression and stretching techniques to open up your body, beginning with your legs. Some people say Thai massage is a little like doing yoga without any effort, because the therapist will push your body into various positions without any work on your part.

Thai massage is done with all your clothes on, so some people recommend it if you feel uncomfortable with nudity during a Swedish massage. But it is not the best choice for first-time spa-goers. The therapist literally uses his or her whole body, including her feet, to move your body into various positions during Thai massage, so in some ways it feels more intimate than a Swedish massage, where you lay on a massage table and are covered with sheets.

Thai massage has its roots in a spiritual tradition, and its purpose is to heal a person physically, emotionally and spiritually. It should not be confused with sensual massage.

Pregnancy massage, also known as per-natal massage, promotes relaxation, soothes nerves, and relieves strained back and leg muscles in expectant mothers. Pregnancy massage is especially beneficial in the second and third trimesters, when the extra weight in your belly puts a strain on your back.

Before you get a pregnancy massage, make sure the therapist has been specially trained so there is no risk of miscarriage.

What Happens During Pregnancy Massage?

A pregnancy massage differs from traditional massage in a few different ways. First, the massage therapist will take extra care to make sure your body gets the cushioning and support it needs.

When you’re lying on your back, there will be pillows underneath your knees and shoulders. If you’re far along in your pregnancy, you might be positioned in a semi-reclining position, where you’re looking at the wall instead of the ceiling.

Some pregnancy massage also uses special bolsters with a deep cutout in the center so you can lie face-down comfortably. You can also have your back massaged during pregnancy by lying on your side, with pillows under your head and between your legs.

A pregnancy massage should be very soothing and relaxing in style. Deep tissue work, abdominal kneading and certain acupressure points should be avoided.

Pregnant women should also avoid Jacuzzi, hot springs, and mineral springs.

The Benefits of Pregnancy Massage Pregnancy massage provides relaxation by relieving stress on joints. It eases neck and back pain, helps you to keep good posture and relaxes and provides flexibility to birthing muscles.

Pregnancy massage aids the circulatory and lymphatic systems, which keeps blood flowing to both the mother and the baby. It stimulates different glands in the body, which help to stabilize hormone levels, and relieves nervous tension throughout the body. And the nurturing touch during pregnancy massage promotes relaxation and provides emotional support. Post-Par tum Pregnancy Massage Pregnancy massage is also good after giving birth. Postpartum pregnancy massage can help restore a mother's body to its pre-pregnancy condition. It helps to realign the body weight, and tones the over-stretched skin over the belly. As with all massage, it relieves muscle tension and stress from mothering duties!

Couples massage is one of the hottest services at the spa right now. Two people are massaged in the same room, at the same time, by two different therapists. It can be a husband and wife, girlfriend and boyfriend, same-sex partners, or even moms and daughters sometimes or best friends.

What Happens During Couples Massage?

Couples massage is a massage that takes place in a couple’s suite. At the very least this is a room large enough for two massage tables. Some spas, especially big resort and hotel spas have elaborate amenities for couples with fireplaces, pedicure chairs, steam showers and lounging beds where you can relax together after your treatments. See the couple’s suite at The Spa at Mohonk Mountain House in upstate New York. Some romantic spas, like Alvadora Spa at The Royal Palms in Phoenix, have three different couples’s suites to accommodate the demand.

As for couples massage etiquette, it's fine to talk to each other through the massage if you want, or be quiet the whole time. It's really up to you.

What Are the Benefits of Couples Massage?

Couples massage is a great way to introduce a partner who has never gotten a massage before in a way that makes them feel more comfortable the first time. Some men are apprehensive about getting a massage because of the nudity involved, and to have their wife or girlfriend there is reassuring.

Men usually discover that therapeutic touch is very relaxing and restorative. Once they experience a couple’s massage, they are more willing to book a massage on their own.

It can also be a good choice if you're traveling with someone you don't get to see often enough -- a sister, girlfriend, mom or best friends -- and you want to spend as much time together as possible.

Is There Any Downside To Couples Massage?

Some experienced spa-goers find it distracting to be in the same room at the same time with anyone else during a massage. They prefer to get their massage alone and then meet up afterwards.

The potential problems come if you have different expectations and needs during a massage, particularly if one person wants to zone out and the other likes to talk.

It helps if you know how much the other person likes to talk during a massage -- a lot, a little, or not at all -- and whether it's a good match for you.

Sports massage was originally developed to help athletes prepare their bodies for optimal performance, recover after a big event, or function well during training. Sports massage emphasizes prevention and healing of injuries to the muscles and tendons.

But you don't have to be and athlete to benefit from sports massage. Sports massage is also good for people with injuries, chronic pain or restricted range of motion. The massage therapist generally concentrates on a specific problem area. Sore neck and shoulders, this is the type of sports massage that you see in the spa.

What Happens During Sports Massage?

Sports massage is a type of Swedish massage that stimulates circulation of blood and lymph fluids. Some sports massage movements use trigger point therapy to break down adhesions (knots in the muscles) and increase range of motion.

There are four types of sports massages:

* Pre-event sports massage -- a short, stimulating massage 15 - 45 minutes before the event. It is directed toward the parts of the body that will be involved in the exertion.

* Post-event sports massage -- given within an hour or two of the event, to normalize the body's tissues.

* Restorative sports massage -- given during training to allow the athlete to train harder and with less injury.

* Rehabilitative sports massage -- aimed at alleviating pain due to injury and returning the body to health.

When Should I Get A Sports Massage?

A sports massage is a good choice if you have a specific problem -- a tender knee from running, for instance. It is also be a good idea to see a movement therapist, who can help you identify and correct the movement pattern that might be causing your injury in the first place.

The therapist generally focuses in on the problem area -- a frozen shoulder or pulled hamstring, for instance -- rather than giving you a full-body massage.

Sometimes men who are new to the spa are more comfortable getting a sports massage because it sounds more masculine. That's fine, even if they don't have an injury.

No matter what type of massage you choose, the therapist should check in with you about what your needs and expectations are for the massage.

Aromatherapy massage uses essential oils derived from plants to affect your mood and alleviate pain.

In aromatherapy massage, essential oils are mixed with a carrier oil like sweet almond, apricot kernel, or grape seed oil. The massage therapist use up to five oils in a mixture, and chooses the oils based on what you need. A relaxing aromatherapy massage, for instance, might have lavender or bergamot, while a massage for sore muscles might include peppermint and eucalyptus.

Essential oils are a volatile, highly concentrated plant extracts, derived from leaves, bark, roots, seeds resins and flowers. They can also be used in hydrotherapy baths, facials and body treatments. You can also use them at home.

Aromatherapy should not be confused with fragrances or perfume oils. Fragrances are often made from chemicals, and lack the therapeutic properties of essential oils. So just because someone lights a scented candle doesn't make it aromatherapy!

A full-body massage is just a way of saying that the therapist will massage your whole body during a therapeutic massage. This includes your back, neck, shoulders, arms, legs, feet and hands (and for men, pecs). Most massages at spas will be full-body massages.

There are two exceptions -- one is if it's an express service, just 30 minutes instead of the usual 50 minutes or an hour. In that case the massage therapist might concentrate on one area, usually back, neck and shoulders, so you get more benefit.

The other is when you ask the therapist to concentrate on a specific area during the full-length massage. They take more time on that area, and usually skip or go very lightly over other areas.

Unfortunately, some "spas" that operate like the old "massage parlors" put out signs that say "full-body massage" as a way of indicate there will be some kind of sexual contact or "happy ending." This is illegal and an unethical use of the term full-body massage.

Therapeutic massage is primarily a way to indicate to the customer that the massage is therapeutic purposes and health benefits. Massage had a seedy reputation in the 1960s and even beyond. Massage was associated with "massage parlors" that were essentially places of prostitution.

Calling it "therapeutic massage" was part of a professionalization of massage therapy. It is a way to communicate that this was a massage for health, and that no sexual contact was involved.

Today, any professional massage is therapeutic, with real health benefits. But the phrase "therapeutic massage" is also sometimes used to indicate that the massage will be a little more intense than a pure relaxation massage and perhaps deal with long-term or chronic issues. The most common examples would be a deep tissue massage or sports massage. The therapist uses more pressure and cross-fiber friction in order to get knots (also known as adhesions) to release

Deep tissue massage is a type of massage aimed at the deeper tissue structures of the muscle and fascia, also called connective tissue. Deep tissue massage uses many of the same movements and techniques as Swedish massage, but the pressure will generally be more intense. It is also a more focused type of massage, as the therapist works to release chronic muscle tension or knots (also known as "adhesion.")

Will A Deep Tissue Massage Hurt?

It shouldn't hurt, but it's likely to be a bit more uncomfortable than a classic Swedish massage. You should always feel free to speak up if the pressure is too much for you.

It's important to drink a lot of water after a deep tissue massage to help flush lactic acid out of the tissues. If you don't, you might be sore the next day.

It's possible that you might feel some soreness the day after a deep tissue massage even if you DO drink water. This just means a lot of waste products were flushed out of the tissues. It should pass within a day or so.

How Fast Will I Get Results With A Deep Tissue Massage?

It's important to be realistic about what one deep tissue massage can achieve. Many people ask for more pressure, thinking that if the therapist just pushes hard enough, they can get rid of all their knots in an hour. This just won't happen.

In fact, undoing chronic knots and tension built up over a lifetime is best achieved with an integrated program that includes exercise, work on your posture and ways of moving, relaxation techniques and a regular program of massage.

Finally, while deep tissue is certainly valuable, you should be aware that gentle styles of massage like craniosacral therapy can also produce profound release and realignment in the body.

Swedish massage is the most common and best-known type of massage in the West. If it's your first time at the spa or you don't get massage very often, Swedish massage is the perfect massage for you.

If you want deeper work and can tolerate more pressure, even momentary discomfort, to get relief from muscle pain, it's better to book a deep tissue massage, which is another form of Swedish massage.

Swedish massage and other types of therapeutic massage are performed by trained, licensed massage therapists. A Swedish massage can be slow and gentle, or vigorous and bracing, depending on the therapist's personal style and what he or she wants to achieve.

What Happens During a Swedish Massage

In all Swedish massage, the therapist lubricates the skin with massage oil and performs various massage strokes. These movements warm up the muscle tissue, releasing tension and gradually breaking up muscle "knots" or adhered tissues, called adhesion. Swedish massage promotes relaxation, among other health benefits.

Before the massage, the therapist should ask you about any injuries or other conditions that he or she should know about. Things you would want tell a therapist include areas of tightness or pain, allergies, and conditions like pregnancy. You can also tell them up front if you have a preference for light or firm pressure. It's best not to get a massage if you are ill.

After the consultation, the therapist instructs you how to lie on the table -- face up or face down, and underneath the sheet or towel -- and then leaves the room. He or she will knock or ask if you are ready before entering.

You usually start by lying face down with your head in a u-shaped face cradle so your spine stays neutral. The therapist generally starts by works your back, using various massage strokes that include effleurage, kneading, friction, stretching and tapping.

When he's finished with the back, he or she works the back of each leg. When done with the back side, he or she holds the sheet or towel up and looks away while you turn over onto your back and scoot down; then he or she quickly covers you again. The therapist then massages the front of each leg, both arms, and generally finishes with your neck and shoulders.

Some therapists work in a different order, and all have their own style and techniques. If you only have 50 minutes, you can also ask them to spend more time on a certain area. If the pressure is too light or too firm, you should speak up and ask the therapist to adjust it. Swedish massage usually includes some deeper work on areas of specific muscle tension, but if you truly want deeper, more intensive work and firmer pressure, book a deep tissue massage.

The cost of a Swedish massage will vary, depending on whether you go to a day spa, resort spa, destination spa, a chain like Massage Envy or go to a massage therapist. Swedish massage pricing will also depend on what part of the country you live and how luxurious the spa is.

Why It's Called Swedish massage

Swedish massage is based on the Western concepts of anatomy and physiology as opposed to energy work that is more common in Asian-style massage. Both Swedish massage and physical therapy were pioneered by a Swedish physiologist, Per Henrik Ling (1776-1839) at the University of Stockholm.

In the early 19th century he developed a system called "Medical Gymnastics" which included movements performed by a therapist. These became the known as "Swedish movements" in Europe and "the Swedish Movement Cure" when they came to the U.S. in 1858. Today it is simply known as Swedish massage.

Swedish massage is the foundation for other types of Western massage, including sports massage, deep tissue massage and aromatherapy massage.

There’s a ton of rumor and innuendo floating around out there about massage parlors and “happy endings.” Let someone who has been there and done that fill you in. There are two main kinds of Asian massage parlors (AMP) that offer extras in the United States: Korean Massage Parlors and Chinese Massage Parlors. Today I’ll talk about Chinese massage parlors.

Chinese massage parlors can be found in almost every major city in the United States, and sometimes even in suburbs and rural areas. Not every Chinese massage parlor offers extras, but many do. Usually you’ll get a poor to decent massage followed by a hand job finish. On some occasions, especially in “fly by night” setups that come and go, often in residential buildings, you may be offered oral sex or even full service (full sex). There are some hints you can look for to help you figure out whether or not a Chinese massage parlor offers extras. If it is open into the late night or early morning or advertises on Backpage or Craigslist there’s a good chance there are extras on offer (though these are no guarantees).

Where extras are on offer it’s accepted as a normal part of the massage, necessary for “full release” on the part of the male clientele. The masseuses will be laid back and accepting and so you should be too.

The main thing to do is simply to relax (after all that’s the whole point of massage!) and let things flow naturally. If extras are on offer, you’ll find out. What you should never do is try to force anything or pressure the masseuse. Of course you already know that, right? Some people will recommend that you ask for extras directly, but I’ve never done this and never had a problem. If you ask you may lead the masseuse to believe you are a law enforcement agent trying to set up her up for trouble. Or you might make a masseuse who does not offer extras uncomfortable. Luckily for you, you have the internet and especially sites like this to give you a heads up on particular places. When you can’t find any info, just man up and “take one for the team,” then report your findings.

When you walk into a parlor for the first time, simply say you want an hour massage even if a half-hour massage is on offer for less. You’re more likely to get extras by going the full hour, and if you go for less they may brand you a “cheap charlie” and not offer you anything more than a so-so massage.

Don’t expect super sexy girls in lingerie. While a few places will have women in their 20′s and sexy uniforms, the usual Chinese massage worker is middle aged or older and will be dressed conservatively. Only rarely are they bad to look at, though sometimes those “less beautiful” women give the best massages and extras!

The staff will often ask if you have been there before. Many recommend saying yes no matter what, but this can be counterproductive in smaller places where they will know you are lying. Because of that, I usually say “no, but I go to another place and decided to come here on recommendation from my friend.” This has always worked for me.

The usual rate is 40-50 dollars for an hour massage, though some places may ask for as much as 80 or 100. The better places like Golden Spa in New York City will offer a table shower (you lay down on a leather-covered massage table and an attendant washes your front and back with soap and water), and some middle of the road places will allow you to shower yourself in a private stand up shower before or after the massage, but most places will offer neither.

You’ll be led to a room and told to take off your clothes. Some rooms will be normal, with walls that go up to the ceiling and locking doors. Some rooms will be nothing more than four 7-foot high dividers and a curtain for a door. The masseuse or mamasan (female manager) who led you to the room will leave, and that’s your cue to get naked. Don’t be shy, they’ve seen it all before, and no matter how bad you think you look, they have seen worse. You can lay face down on the table, but in my opinion it’s better to simply sit on the table naked and wait to show the masseuse that you are comfortable being nude. Sometimes they will be a little surprised by this, but it’s nothing they haven’t seen before. Usually they won’t react to it at all and will just tell you to lay down so they can begin. You will often be covered with a sheet or towel. It will be removed from the parts they focus on as the massage proceeds.

Massages are typically done with the use of oil. If you don’t want to have oil on your body for whatever reason (unable to shower soon after, uncomfortable, a suspicious significant other, etc) you can tell your masseuse that, though it may lessen the quality of the massage. Sometimes powder will be used for the massage. Often you will be asked if you want a hard or soft massage. A hard massage involves varying amounts of pressure being applied to your back, buttocks and legs. A soft massage usually means the masseuse will lightly run her fingers over your body, giving you goosebumps and quite possibly getting you erect.

Some suggest that you try to lightly touch the masseuses lightly on the leg and if they move away that means extras are not on offer. Again, this is something I never do. I don’t think it’s very effective and anyway it’s pretty damn creepy if you ask me. At the most, you should try to initiate some friendly chat with the masseuse. They usually appreciate it, and often times they’re happy to be able to practice their English and get a break from the monotony of rubbing the backs of semi-sleeping guys day after day.

During the massage, things will often get a bit sexy, at least from your point of view. When the masseuse is rubbing your legs, buttocks and thighs you may get turned on. This is no problem, even for places that don’t offer extras. If you can get hard and keep it up, then do it. While not necessary, it will let the masseuse know you could use some release. After 30-50 minutes you’ll usually be asked to turn over. Sometimes they’ll ask if you want to turn over, and that in itself is an offer for extras. But usually, they’ll just say turn over or “flip” and start rubbing your legs. When things get closer to the end, they may start to tease you groin to get you hard, they may ask if you want “anything else or they may just come out and ask if you want a hand job directly, either with words or by motioning. Say yes of course!

If extras are on offer, most places will not discuss prices beforehand. If they do, it’s is usually the sign of a poor service to come, but there are always exceptions. In any case, lay back and enjoy your release which will range from fast and mechanical to slow, oily and erotic. You’ll be emptied out in one way or another. That’s never bad, right?

The masseuse may get topless or even naked, but this is usually not the case. It may be more accessible if you ask for it and offer to tip a little extra. I usually don’t worry about it. Most are okay with you rubbing their legs or ass. Some are not. Feel them out, or better yet, ask. It’s okay to be a bit more forward once they already have your dong in their hand since you don’t have to worry about freaking them out.

Afterward you’ll be cleaned up and then the masseuse will leave the room. Get dressed and head out to the front. Pay at the front desk for the massage if you haven’t already. Then give the masseuse a tip (unless she asked for it in the room, usually after you blew your wad). The standard tip for a hand job finish is 40 dollars, though you may sometimes be asked for more.

If, at the end of the massage, the masseuse simply says “okay that’s it” and leaves the room, that means you aren’t getting any extras. Just accept it and take it as a lesson learned. At least you got a nice massage. The standard tip in this case is 10 dollars per hour.

After you become familiar with a place that offers extras, you may opt for the 30 minute massage if the happy ending is all you’re after. The tip remains the same. You can also inquire about 4 and even 6 handed massages (adding another masseuse or two) which are available at a lot of places. You will have to tip each masseuse separately, so keep this in mind.

Earlier, I alluded to fly by night places set up in houses and apartments. These less common set ups can usually be found in listings in the backs of “alternative papers” available freely in various cities. The ads will usually be short and to the point, it’s probably one of these places. These spots are discreet. You will knock on the door and be led into a room with a locking door. You’ll get a half-ass massage and then be asked what you want. Hand jobs are standard, but sometimes you will be offered oral sex. You may want to bring a condom, because if you don’t they will sometimes do something strange like cover your unit in plastic wrap before popping it in their mouth. If you become a regular and trusted visitor, you may even be offered full service. In these places prices will normally be negotiated up front. You may pay 40 dollars for an hour massage then negotiate for further services. Sometimes you can get away with a lot less than you would pay at a “normal” Chinese jack shack, but not always. I once found a place where the sexy middle-aged Chinese milf mamasan also did massages. When I got her, she’d jerk and blow me with her big juicy tits out without even asking for a tip! At 40 dollars a go, it was a great deal. These places don’t last, so be aware and don’t get too attached to them.

As you should be able to tell from reading this, things are widely variable with Chinese massage parlors. Just go with it and try to have a good time. Next time I’ll talk about Korean massage parlors which have more straight forward and set-in-stone routines, and where full service with very sexy women is standard. And this is just how Chinese massage parlors work in the United States. Things are much different elsewhere in the world, which I’ll explain in future entries.