Your First Massage: The Beginner's Guide to Stress Relief

You've been thinking about it for weeks. The idea of switching off, relieving that tension in your shoulders, treating yourself to an hour just for you... It's tempting. But a little voice is holding you back: "How does it work, exactly?", "Will it be awkward?", "What if I don't know what to do?".

Stop. Breathe.

This apprehension is perfectly normal. The good news? Millions of people have been through this and come out wondering: "Why didn't I do this sooner?"

This guide answers all your questions without taboos – even those you don't dare ask. Our goal? That your only concern on the big day is choosing between closing your eyes or dozing off.

The 5 Questions All Beginners Ask Themselves (But Are Afraid to Ask)

1. "Do you have to be completely naked?"

The simplest answer is: it's up to you. The only rule is your absolute comfort.

You can choose to keep your underwear on, or if you feel more comfortable without it, that's perfectly fine too. Professional practitioners are trained to adapt to your choice, which will always be respected without judgement.

In any case, rest assured: you will be comfortably covered with a large towel throughout the session. Only the area being massaged (the back, a leg, an arm) is uncovered, then carefully covered again before moving on to the next area. Your privacy is our priority and is preserved at all times. The most important thing is to choose the option that will allow you to relax most easily.

2. "Should I talk during the massage?"

This is your moment. If you feel like talking, talk. If you prefer complete silence to help you escape, that's fine too. A good practitioner will follow your lead. Generally, after a brief exchange at the beginning, silence naturally sets in to promote relaxation.

However, there is one crucial exception: NEVER hesitate to speak up if something is bothering you. Is the pressure too strong or too weak? Is the room temperature uncomfortable? Is the music too loud? Say so! This information is essential for your practitioner to adjust the treatment and provide you with the best possible experience.

3. "Does it hurt?"

An anti-stress massage should not be painful.

• You may feel firm pressure on tense areas (such as the shoulders or lower back), but no pain.

• If a technique feels uncomfortable, say so immediately. The masseur will adjust without hesitation.

• After the session, some people feel pleasantly tired (a sign that the body is relaxing) or slightly sore (as after a gentle workout). This is normal!

Our tip: Breathe deeply during the pressure to relax your muscles.

4. "How much does it cost? Can I pay online?"

You can pay online or on site, by credit card or cash.

All our massages are charged at the same hourly rate:

30 minutes	50 euros
45 minutes	70 euros
1 heure	90 euros
1 heure 15 minutes	115 euros
1 h 30	135 euros

You can also offer a gift card (valable 1 an) – Perfect for a birthday or corporate gift!

5. "What about tips?"

As an American customer once told me, tipping is an elegant way of saying "Thank you". I really like this approach and apply it in my daily life.

When an Anglo-Saxon customer gives me a tip, they are doing more than just thanking me, in my opinion. They are perpetuating an image, a kind of influence from their culture. I feel as if I have been transported to their country. It is a truly special and intense emotion.

In France, things work differently than in Anglo-Saxon countries. Service is included in the price of the service. A tip is a welcome gesture to show great satisfaction, but it is never mandatory or expected.

The best "tip" you can leave us is your feedback and recommendation.

The Step-by-Step Process of Your Session

To help you visualise, here is what your first visit with us will look like, from start to finish.

• Reception: You will arrive in a calm and peaceful environment. We will take a few minutes to get to know each other.

• The Preliminary Consultation: This is a brief but essential discussion. We will ask you a few questions about your expectations, areas of tension and any contraindications. This is the time to tell us if, for example, you have back pain from sitting too much or if you are simply looking to switch off.

• Preparation: The masseur will explain how to position yourself on the table and will leave the room so that you can change in privacy.

• The Session: It's time to do nothing. Focus on your breathing, let your mind wander. The practitioner will take care of everything.

• End of Treatment: We will let you know when the session is over. We will leave the room again to give you time to come round and get dressed without rushing.

• Departure: Take your time. We will offer you a glass of water and give you one last piece of advice: drink plenty of water in the hours following the procedure to help your body eliminate toxins.

What to Expect After Your First Massage?

Immediate Effects (Upon Completion of the Session)

• Muscle relaxation: Knots in the back or shoulders are relieved.

• Mental calmness: Stress reduction, improved clarity of mind.

• Feeling of lightness: As if you were walking on a cloud!

• Some people feel:

  • Temporary fatigue (the body is regenerating itself).

  • Intense thirst (a sign that toxins are being eliminated).

    
    

Long-Term Benefits (After Several Sessions)

• Less stress (decrease in cortisol, the stress hormone).

• Better sleep (massage promotes melatonin production).

• Reduced pain (back, neck, tension headaches).

• Enhanced immunity (relaxation boosts natural defences).

For lasting results, we recommend:

• One session per month for a wellness consultation.

• One session every two weeks in cases of intense stress or chronic pain.

Practical Questions (Logistics, Hygiene, Booking)

"Should we plan something before/after?"

• Before: Avoid heavy meals (opt for a light snack instead).

• After :

  • Stay hydrated (1.5 litres of water within 24 hours).

  • Avoid alcohol and coffee (they dehydrate you). Don't worry, a small glass of champagne won't turn you into a mummy.

  • Stretch gently in the evening.

"Can I cancel or change my appointment?"

Yes, free of charge up to 24 hours before the session:

• Online via our page my booking.

• By telephone on +33 6 64 80 52 21. After this period, the session will be due (except in cases of force majeure).

"Are there any contraindications?"

Massage is not recommended in the following cases:

• Fever or infection.

• Phlebitis or serious circulatory problems.

• Recent fractures or open wounds.

• Pregnancy (except for adapted prenatal massage – please ask us!). If in doubt, consult your doctor or call us.

  
  

"How do I book my next session?"

3 options :

1. Online24/7 via thomasbellis.fr (secure payment).

2. By telephone at +33 6 64 80 52 21 (Monday to Saturday, 9am to 9pm).

3. On site at 9 Place du Capitole, Toulouse (booking recommended).

💡 Loyalty programme with our massage booklets

The Most Difficult Step? Done.

You see, there's nothing complicated about it. The most complex barrier isn't on the massage table, it's in our heads. It's the fear of the unknown. Now that you know exactly how things work, that barrier is gone.

The hardest step is making that first appointment. But we're here to guide you every step of the way, from booking online to the final glass of water.

Express FAQ (Answers in 30 Seconds)

❓ "Can I come as a couple?" → Yes! We offer duo sessions in our dedicated room. Book two simultaneous slots.

❓ "Is massage covered by my health insurance?" → Some health insurance providers cover wellness massages (upon presentation of a receipt). Check with yours!

❓ "Puis-je choisir mon/mon praticien ?" → Of course ! View our masseur here and specify your preference when booking.

❓ "Do you offer massages for men?" → Yes, of course! Our techniques are suitable for everyone, regardless of gender. No judgement, just wellbeing.