The idea of a free massage probably sounds too good to be true. As this is a very relaxing practice that also brings health benefits, it is worth learning how to get one for free.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Trade a Massage
Step 1. Exchange massages with your spouse or partner
One of the best ways to enjoy a free massage is to have your loved one give it to you. This requires both of you to learn the right manipulation techniques, but by doing so you can give each other a massage in the privacy of your home whenever you feel like it.
- Exchanging massages is pleasant and fun. You can buy books to learn how to do truly relaxing ones or borrow texts from the library. Alternatively, watch videos on YouTube.
- Buy the products you need to get a good massage so that the experience is as pleasant as possible. You can consider getting massage oils and scented candles. If you don't want to spend the money, use the creams and oils you already own.
- Create a relaxing atmosphere in the room where the massage will take place. Dim the lights and make sure the temperature is comfortable.
Step 2. Exchange massages with a friend
Find a person among your friends who is interested in exchanging massage services. Not everyone feels comfortable getting a massage from a friend, so make sure the person doesn't feel like they have to accept your offer.
Step 3. Extend the benefits of massage
Get other people to trade this practice by pointing out how relaxing it is. Additionally, a good massage can improve flexibility, reduce pain, increase focus, and promote restful sleep.
Step 4. Trade a massage with a licensed physiotherapist or massage therapist
These professionals are also human beings and may be willing to trade just like anyone else.
If they don't want to get a massage, offer another service. For example, you can lend yourself to a decorating job, cleaning the house, tidying up the garden or looking after the kids for an evening
Step 5. Check your health insurance policy if you have one
Some companies, albeit rare, also include physiotherapy and massages in their policies, based on the client's health conditions. Some pathologies related to anxiety and stress can also be controlled thanks to massages.
Consider a manipulation at a chiropractor. This benefit is more likely to be recognized by your insurance company or the supplemental health services that some companies provide to their employees. Remember that "asking is okay"
Part 2 of 3: Helping Physiotherapy Students
Step 1. Find a massage therapy school in your area
You can do this with a simple online search. Some schools offer free or minimal fee massages to allow students to gain experience. Make sure your hometown school or hospital offers this kind of service.
- Massage physiotherapy schools generally set appointments for these free massages and the agenda fills up very quickly.
- Remember that in this case the massage therapist is a student who is still learning. Be honest when he asks for your impressions to help him improve in his profession.
Step 2. Be flexible
When looking for a free service, you must be able to adapt and be available to modify your programs according to the needs of the masseur.
Step 3. Don't forget the tip
Regardless of whether the massage in the school is free or not, remember to tip the operator. This rule does not apply if the massage therapist is your partner, spouse or friend. Typically, the tip is 10-20% of the cost of the service. You can be more or less generous, depending on the quality of the massage received.
Step 4. Understand the dangers of an amateur massage
Sometimes, it's not a good idea at all to undergo a manipulation. People who are not licensed for this practice may not be aware of the associated risks.
- Under certain circumstances, a massage could be regarded as a harm to health rather than a benefit. Generally, people on anticoagulant therapy, heart disease, cancer patients, pregnant or with internal injuries caused by an accident should not undergo unprofessional massage.
- In other cases, the massage is dangerous for the practitioner - for example, when the person has a fever, a rash, or a contagious disease.
- Remember to inform the massage therapist about your health condition.
Step 5. Be clear about the type of massage you want or need
To be satisfied, good and clear communication is essential. There are many techniques, such as deep tissue massage and Swedish massage. Always communicate your physical sensations and needs to the masseur.
Part 3 of 3: Finding an Online Massage Therapist
Step 1. Do an online search
If you can't find a friend willing to exchange massages, use the powerful means of the web to find free services. Start by typing in the search bar the words "free professional massages" and analyze the results to find a reliable and serious solution.
Be very cautious when doing this type of research and avoid "adult services"
Step 2. Check free massage exchange websites
On the web pages dedicated to bartering and exchanging you can find many people interested in a wide range of massages. However, be very careful not to get involved in any illegal activity disguised as massage therapy.
- Never meet a person you know on the internet in a private place. Always make appointments in public places to discuss the services offered. Before making plans and arranging the massage, make sure that both of you are comfortable with each other. Get a friend to accompany you for safety. If you feel uncomfortable, leave immediately.
- If you decide to meet the person in a massage studio, do some research on the person and the studio before going to the appointment. A simple Google search sometimes yields interesting information. If you have even the slightest doubt or feel any discomfort, don't go to the meeting.
- Sometimes massage exchange sites require you to sign up for a paid membership.
Step 3. Look for competitions where the prize is a free massage
Try using the key phrase "win a free massage" to find the competition. Subscribe to all those you find.
Step 4. Request a gift certificate
Many massage physiotherapy and aesthetic studios offer this type of gift. Ask friends or family for one for your birthday or a holiday. This is quite an expensive gift, so don't expect to get it often.
Advice
- Make it clear that you are not looking for "adult services".
- If you have decided to rely on a licensed massage therapist or physiotherapist, ask for their credentials, references or talk to other clients who have contacted the same professional.
- Never go to a date with a stranger alone, always ask a friend to accompany you.
Warnings
- If you are a minor, do not seek and do not rely on any massage service without the permission of your parents.
- Be aware of the dangers of finding a massage online. For this reason, you should always find a massage therapist within your circle of trusted friends or relatives.
- Look for sites for exchanging massage services that have strict regulations that prevent sexual services and a form to report violations of these rules.
