Chinese Massage 101

Ancient in origin and integral to the holistic practice of Chinese Medicine, the benefits of Chinese massage techniques have won over many in the West too thanks to its standalone therapeutic and calming effects. If you’re interested in visiting a spa or massage parlor, but hesitant because you are unsure of what to expect, here’s our short guide to help you relax and enjoy Chinese massage.

Why Chinese massage?

With its origins dating back some 2500 years, this is no new-fangled technique, but a scrupulous and well-honed approach which focuses on ‘Qi’; the body’s energy, or ‘life force’, and specifically on the circulatory and central nervous systems to remove blockages, improve blood circulation and relieve muscular stiffness and pain in various parts of the body. It’s particularly beneficial for chronic pain associated with the head, back and neck and is considered to be helpful for gastrointestinal issues too. It is also used to help break down scar tissue, particularly after surgery. If you’re feeling tense, anxious, or stressed, it’s a great way to release tension, aid relaxation and rid the body of toxins.

The Technique

There are, in fact, many specialized techniques, and the type of technique employed will depend on your preference, or if there is any specific type of ailment. The most common forms, however, are Tui Na; a technique which focuses on pushing, stretching and kneading the muscle, and Zhi Ya, which focuses on pinching and pressing at acupressure points. A massage may consist of one of these techniques or a combination of both based on your individual requirements. The pressure is generally quite firm and it’s common to feel a little sore directly afterwards, but your massage therapist will be happy to go lightly if you ask, so don’t be embarrassed to say.

Choosing a spa or massage parlor

It’s true there are some negative connotations associated with the term ‘massage parlor’ but if you look for well designed spas, with professional looking therapists, wearing uniforms, and spa menus which offer a range of other products such as facials, it’s likely you’re not going to need to worry about whether you’re offered more than you bargained for. If you’re really unsure, it’s probably best to stick to reputable hotel spas

Spa etiquette

One of the biggest fears for novice spa-goers is the fear of ‘what to do’ or worse, getting naked, or specifically at which point to get naked. Here’s a brief bulleted list of the kind of procedures you are likely to encounter at a spa.

• Upon entry the receptionist will greet you, and your appointment will be confirmed if you have pre-booked, or you can inquire if a therapist is free if you are a walk-in client. You will then probably be offered a seat and provided with a beverage, usually Chinese tea or possibly water. It’s at this point that you will probably have your pre-therapy consultation whereby you will be asked to fill out a form to establish if you have any ailments or areas that you wish for the therapist to focus on, as well as to alert the therapist to any pre-existing conditions, which may not be suitable for certain massage techniques. Your therapist will come to collect you after a few minutes.
• You will be shown in to the treatment room and shown where to put your clothes and valuables, asked to undress and be told to lie on the bed, usually face down with your body under the towel, or you may be asked to wear a robe (if language is a barrier there may be more of a basic exchange involving a bit of mime and pointing, but it’ll be obvious). It is common to be provided with a pair of disposable panties (particularly for western guys and gals). It’s entirely up to you if you choose to wear them, they are made of disposable paper and very small and really only to cover your dignity. If you aren’t given panties, you can always keep your own on but being naked is totally normal. Remember: the therapist has seen every conceivable shape and type of body and more naked flesh than you can possible imagine. They will not be remotely critical or even interested in how you look, or your wobbly bits.
• The therapist will then leave the room to allow you to undress. They will give you a few minutes and discreetly knock to see if you are ready, before entering. They will then prepare any oils, adjust the lighting or music, if necessary, and possibly ask if the room is of an agreeable temperature.
• They will then proceed with the massage, and will generally ask if the pressure is “OK?” Be honest. If it’s not, speak up! If it’s too light, or too firm, let them know, they will not be offended at all. A note for ladies: it is common in China for Therapists to massage the breasts to encourage lymphatic drainage and to help firm up the supporting muscles. This can be a shock for westerners who are unprepared, and many therapists will ask beforehand. But if you aren’t keen, say so up front (no pun intended). Note: They do not touch the nipple area and it is not ‘erotic’.
• At the end you will be gently woken from slumber (if necessary - drooling is perfectly acceptable and normal, as is breaking wind) and will then thank you and leave the room to allow you to take a few minutes to rouse yourself, and get dressed. They will either come back for you, or will indicate for you to go to reception afterwards where you will be offered another drink and a moment to gather yourself, before paying. (Remember to drink lots of water after massage to assist the body in flushing out toxins).
• It is a good idea to leave a tip; anything from around 10-20% would be reasonable and well received, particularly in China, where it is not always customary.

If you’re in Shanghai or Beijing, it’s worth checking out a branch of Dragonfly Spa, which has gained a reputation for offering fantastic treatments in stylish, calming surroundings. A big hit with expats, tourists and locals, you can be sure to get a professional and top-notch Chinese massage, just as described here, without breaking the bank.