InternationalMassage

I love hearing stories from clients who have received massage in foreign countries.  Often there are interesting cultural additions to the basic rubbing of the body.  Unfortunately, I've also heard some stories of intimidating touch, compounded by a language barrier.  Please know that if you are receiving massage from a non-English speaking person, the word "no" is almost universally understood. Grabbing the therapist's hand to prevent more touch is also a universal form of "no".  Touch is a universal language, and there is no country on this planet where you are expected to receive unwelcome touch.

So, here is a page with some helpful tools.  First of all, print this page. Then, highlight the URL for this page either by going to the top of your browser, or by copying it here: http://sites.google.com/site/asensitivetouchnewsletters/internationalmassage.  Then, go to Google's translator by clicking here: http://translate.google.com/translate_t?hl=en#. Then, pick your language translation, and print that page as well. Take both printed pages with you to the country you are visiting, and use it to help you get a HELPFUL type of massage. Circle the phrases (and/or body parts) that are pertinent.

PHRASES TO TRANSLATE:

1. I want to find someone who does therapeutic massage. I need to find a professional massage therapist, or a physical therapist, or a chiropractor, or an osteopath. I do not want to be touched sexually.

2. I have a tight muscle in my neck, shoulder, upper back, middle back, lower back, calf, foot, forearm, hand.

3. I have a headache. I get migraine headaches.

4. I want you to rub my head, neck, shoulders, stomach, arms, hands, back, legs, feet, jaw.

5. I do not want you to touch my chest area.

6. I do not want you to touch my groin or buttock area.

7. I do not want you to touch my stomach.

8. I need you to know that I have a heart condition, kidney condition, cancer, epilepsy, psoriasis, diabetes.

9. I bruise easily.

10. I am pregnant.

11. I am on medications that may cause a problem. I am currently taking these medications...

12. I have a history of blood clots. I have vericose veins. I have phlebitis.

13. It hurts here.

14. How much does a one hour session cost?

15. It is customary to leave a gratuity?

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