First Time Massage in Shanghai: Complete Beginner's Guide
- Duration: Start with 90 minutes for full experience
- Type: Relaxation massage - gentle, low-risk
- What to wear: Undress to comfort level; underwear OK
- Communicate: Tell therapist if anything is uncomfortable
Nervous about your first massage? You're not alone. Many clients feel uncertain before their first session. This guide explains exactly what happens, how to prepare, and how to get the most from your Shanghai massage experience.
Common First-Timer Concerns (And Why They're OK)
| Concern | Reality |
|---|---|
| "I don't know what to do" | The therapist guides everything. Just relax and follow simple instructions. |
| "Will I have to be naked?" | Undress to your comfort level. Most keep underwear on. Professional draping keeps you covered. |
| "What if it hurts?" | Speak up! Pressure is adjusted to your preference. Relaxation massage is gentle by default. |
| "I'll feel awkward" | Normal feeling that fades within minutes. Therapists work with first-timers regularly. |
| "What if I fall asleep?" | That's a compliment! Many clients doze off. It means you're relaxed. |
| "My body isn't perfect" | Therapists focus on muscle tissue, not appearance. All body types welcome. |
How to Prepare
Before the Session
- Shower: Not required, but feel free to freshen up if it makes you comfortable
- Eat light: Avoid heavy meals 1-2 hours before (lying down on full stomach is uncomfortable)
- Hydrate: Drink water; massage releases toxins
- Remove jewelry: Watches, necklaces, earrings (optional but recommended)
- Use bathroom: Harder to relax when you need to go
What to Tell the Therapist
Share this information at the start:
- This is your first massage (they'll explain everything)
- Any injuries or sensitive areas to avoid
- Preferred pressure level (light/medium/firm - when unsure, say "medium")
- Any allergies (to oils or lotions)
What to Wear
During the session: Most clients remove outer clothing and keep underwear on. You decide your comfort level.
- Minimum: Underwear (most common)
- More coverage: Underwear + sports bra / loose shorts (fine for massage)
- Full undress: For some specialty services; always with professional draping
You'll be covered with a towel/sheet throughout. Only the area being massaged is exposed.
Your Session Timeline
90-Minute Session Example
| Time | What Happens |
|---|---|
| 0:00 | Therapist arrives, brief introduction and chat |
| 0:05 | Discuss preferences (pressure, focus areas, concerns) |
| 0:08 | Therapist steps out; you undress and lie face-down on table, under towel |
| 0:10 | Massage begins - back, shoulders, neck |
| 0:35 | Legs, feet (face-down) |
| 0:50 | Turn over (face-up); arms, hands, scalp |
| 1:20 | Final relaxation, gentle ending |
| 1:25 | Therapist steps out; you dress at your pace |
| 1:30 | Payment, brief chat, session complete |
Communication During the Session
Things You Should Say
- "A little lighter please" - if pressure is too strong
- "You can go deeper there" - if you want more pressure
- "Can you skip that area?" - if somewhere feels uncomfortable
- "I need to adjust" - if your position is uncomfortable
- "Can I have a break?" - if you need water or bathroom
It's OK to...
- Fall asleep (very common, especially with relaxation massage)
- Not talk (you don't need to make conversation)
- Make sounds (sighing, deep breathing is natural)
- Ask questions (therapists expect this from first-timers)
Don't Worry About...
- Body hair (normal, doesn't affect massage)
- Stomach growling (pressure on back can trigger this)
- Feeling ticklish (tell therapist; they'll adjust technique)
Recommended First Massage Options
Best for Beginners
- Relaxation Massage - Gentle, stress-relieving, minimal discomfort
- Swedish Massage - Classic techniques, well-known worldwide
Good for Curious Beginners
- Dragon Tendon - More pressure, but therapist starts light
Save for Later
- Deep tissue - can be intense if you're not used to massage
- Specialty services - better after you know what you like
After Your First Massage
What to Expect
- Relaxed feeling: Muscles feel loose, mind calm
- Thirst: Drink water to help flush released toxins
- Better sleep: Many clients sleep deeply that night
- Mild soreness: Normal with deeper work; like after exercise
Tips for Maximum Benefit
- Don't schedule stressful activities right after
- Drink extra water for 24 hours
- Avoid alcohol for a few hours
- Take a warm (not hot) shower if desired
FAQ
How much should I tip?
Tipping is not expected in China - our prices are all-inclusive. See our tipping guide for details.
What if I have a medical condition?
Tell the therapist about any conditions (recent surgery, pregnancy, skin conditions, etc.). Massage can be adapted or postponed if needed.
Can I request a female/male therapist?
Yes. Most of our therapists are female. Let us know your preference when booking.
Is massage safe?
Yes, professional massage is very safe. Read about our professional standards for more information.
What if I don't like it?
Rare, but it happens. Communicate during the session so adjustments can be made. If the style isn't for you, try a different service type next time.
How often should I get a massage?
For stress relief: every 2-4 weeks. For specific issues: weekly until improved. For maintenance: monthly. Listen to your body.
Ready for your first massage? WhatsApp us and mention it's your first time - we'll make sure you're comfortable.
Related Guides
- Shanghai Massage Complete Guide - Main hub for all Shanghai massage information
- 60 vs 90 Minutes: Which to Choose?
- Tipping & Etiquette Guide
- How to Book
- Our Professional Standards
- All Services