I Tried a Couples Massage – And It Was Worth It!

Most of us think that a massage equals “alone time.” I’ve had lots of massages, and it wasn’t until recently that I even thought about bringing someone else along for the experience. Then I saw that my local spa had a special deal on couples massage and decided to try it out.

My husband wasn’t that keen at first but, in the name of research, he agreed to give it a go. So, what did I learn? What’s a couples massage really like? Here are my takeaways:

1. It feels strange at first, but it’s awesome.

Having a massage next to your partner is a really intimate experience. OK, the thought of having two strangers massage you while you lie side by side on massage tables is a bit weird. Luckily, it starts to feel natural after a few minutes. I reminded myself that the therapists treat couples every day. It’s no big deal. Plus, you can always hold hands if it makes you feel better.

In this video, you can see how a treatment room is usually set up for a couples massage.

2. You might have the opportunity to enjoy a little extra time alone.

Your room or suite might be set up with romance in mind. Our room had a twin bath and there was a platter of strawberries nearby. It all hinted at a bit more than just a massage treatment. We were given the opportunity to pay for private use of the facilities afterwards. We didn’t take them up on the offer, but it was kind of tempting.

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3. A couples massage is a great way to convert men to the joys of massage.

My husband had never gotten a massage before. “No offense,” he said, “but I think of that as a more of a woman’s thing.” By the time we left the spa, he’d changed his mind. “OK,” he said as we got back into the car, “I get it. I might actually book my own treatment next time.”

Trying new things is also good for your relationship in general. It gives you something to talk about and makes you feel closer. Marriage therapist Esther Boykin says a massage can help you both stay in the moment. It helps you enjoy time together without being weighed down by old emotional baggage.

4. You probably shouldn’t talk during the treatment.

It’s up to you whether you want to talk during the treatment. We didn’t, because making small talk while two strangers massage your half-naked bodies seemed a bit strange. Your therapist won’t get distracted but trying to concentrate on making conversation makes the experience less relaxing.

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5. You can each pick your own massage.

Just because you’re in the same room doesn’t mean you have to have the same type of massage. We both chose a Swedish massage, but there’s nothing stopping you from getting your own treatments. Our spa offered deep tissue, Thai, and hot stone massage, to name but a few.

All forms of massage cause your body to release oxytocin, also known as “the cuddle hormone.” Oxytocin helps us feel closer to our partners and even likens it to a love potion.

6. You can add on a few extras.

If you want to customize your massage, you can. I love aromatherapy, so our therapist lit a diffuser and released chamomile into the air as we received our treatment. You can also choose to have a massage in silence or ask your masseuse to put on some soothing music.

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7. You don’t actually have to take your partner.

Not all couples massage treatments are designed for loved-up couples. Most spas are happy to treat two friends or relatives. To save any awkwardness, just make it clear to the therapists that you aren’t an item.

Would I recommend a couples massage? Absolutely. It makes a nice change from dinner and a movie, and it will leave you both feeling mellow for hours. If you aren’t sure what to buy your partner for their birthday or another special occasion, why not book a massage? I honestly can’t think of a more relaxing way to celebrate an anniversary either!

About the Author

Clara Masters is on a mission to bring massage therapy closer to those who want to live a balanced, healthy life, connecting body, mind, and spirit. – Massageaholic.com

About the Author

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