Walking into a spa for the first time can feel intimidating if you don’t know the etiquette or the terminology — here’s both, in plain language.
This guide covers how to behave as a client and what common industry terms actually mean, so you can book and show up with confidence.
Spa Etiquette: The Basics
Arriving and Checking In
Arrive 10–15 minutes early to fill out any intake forms and settle in before your treatment starts. Turn your phone to silent — spas are shared quiet spaces, and calls or notifications disrupt everyone’s experience.
Communicating With Your Therapist
Always disclose relevant health conditions, injuries, allergies, or pregnancy before treatment begins. During the session, it’s completely normal to speak up if pressure is too much, too little, or if a specific area needs more or less attention.
Privacy and Draping
Professional draping means you’re covered with a sheet or towel at all times except the specific area currently being treated. You always undress to your own comfort level — a reputable spa never requires more than you’re comfortable with.
In Nairobi, a tip of 10–15% is customary for good service, though not mandatory. See our full guide to spa tipping etiquette in Nairobi for specific amounts.
Common Massage Industry Terms Explained
| Term | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Swedish Massage | A relaxation-focused massage using long, flowing strokes to ease general tension and improve circulation. |
| Deep Tissue Massage | A firmer-pressure massage targeting deeper muscle layers, typically for chronic tension. |
| Four Hands Massage | A massage performed by two therapists working in sync, covering more of the body simultaneously. |
| Draping | The professional practice of keeping you covered with a sheet or towel throughout treatment. |
| Modality | Industry term for a specific massage technique or style, e.g. Swedish, deep tissue, or reflexology. |
| Pressure Scale | A simple 1–10 (or light/medium/firm) system therapists use to check your preferred pressure level. |
| Contraindication | A health condition or situation that means a treatment needs to be adjusted or avoided. |
Setting Professional Boundaries
A legitimate, professional spa operates within clear therapeutic boundaries — treatments are focused on muscle relief, circulation, and relaxation, delivered by trained therapists in a respectful, clinical-adjacent environment. Understanding this helps you know what to expect before you ever book a session.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear to a massage appointment?
Wear whatever is comfortable to arrive in — most spas provide a robe or ask you to undress to your comfort level once in the treatment room, with draping used throughout.
Is it normal to fall asleep during a massage?
Yes, completely normal — it’s often a sign the treatment is working and you’re genuinely relaxed.
What if I don’t like the pressure being used?
Say so right away. Therapists expect and welcome feedback during the session — adjusting pressure is a normal, routine part of the treatment.
Key Takeaways
- Speak up: Pressure, comfort, and health conditions should always be communicated.
- Draping is standard: You’re covered throughout, at your own comfort level.
- Know the terms: Modality, contraindication, and pressure scale are common, useful vocabulary.
Our certified therapists guide first-timers through every step, from intake to aftercare.