Outdoor massage therapy has become a favorite tool for achieving holistic wellness. What with the undeniable health benefits of massage therapy and the powerful effects of nature on our well-being. 

If your client requests for outdoor massage, do you know how to set up a safe space for them…and yourself? Read on for some easy and practical tips.

How to Set Up a Safe Outdoor Massage Therapy Space

The client's safety and comfort are always first during the massage ---regardless of the location.

The therapy space should also be secure for the therapist so he can provide the service without worrying during the session.

Finding a Suitable Space in the Outdoors for Massage Therapy

You may wonder, "Outdoor massage sounds excellent. But is there an outdoor massage therapy near me?"

Hotels, destination spas, or resorts usually offer outdoor massages to their guests. 

Unfortunately, not everyone's got the luxury of time and resources for a vacation.

Good news: You don't need to drive somewhere far and enjoy massage in nature.

You can have a massage at home, on your garden, patio, or balcony on a comfortable outdoor massage table! Thanks to massage therapists opting to work freelance and offering mobile massage services.

1. Choose the right location

The first step to setting up an outdoor massage area is choosing the appropriate location. 

Look for a space that will offer privacy and protection from the elements (sunlight, wind, rain). You may need to research beforehand or try out different spots until you find one that suits your needs.

If the client wishes to have the massage by their pool or on their back patio, it is the therapist's job to ask for the details of the space. This is so he can give the specifics of what is needed or what to bring he deems necessary.

2. Set up a comfortable portable massage table

You'll need something for your client to lie on — not just an old blanket on the ground. 

Ideally, it will be waterproof and easy for you to clean afterward (be sure not to use anything that could be damaged by water). 

Invest in a mobile massage table designed specifically for outdoor use.

There are crucial things to look for in a massage table. For example, the right dimension, height, ease of use, weight support capacity, and materials used.

Writers need dependable laptops to do their work. In the same way, massage therapists must have premium-quality portable massage tables to be effective.

3. Make sure your client is comfortable with their surroundings.

Depending on where you're doing the massage, cover up the client with a towel or blanket as needed. You may need to move things around, so they don't get caught in the wind or rain — if so, be prepared with extra towels and blankets so everything stays dry!

4. Finally, remember to bring all your supplies with you, so you don't have any interruptions during the session.

This means using blinds or curtains to cover windows and doors, tents, or privacy and panel dividers to shield them from passing traffic. The tent should be large enough for both of you but small enough so as not to draw attention from passersby.

How to Keep Your Client Safe from Insects or Bugs

The best thing about outdoor massage is the natural light and fresh air. The worst thing about working outside is the bugs and insects.

Here are some tips for keeping your client safe from bugs and insects during their session.

1. Ensure the area is clear of trash or debris that may attract insects.

2. Use a bug repellent. This is one of the most effective ways to keep clients safe from bug bites. 

The natural sprays can be applied to the skin without adverse reactions or irritation. 

Look for one that uses essential oils such as citronella or peppermint – they'll keep bugs away while still being gentle on the skin. 

Here's a list of our favorite bug repellents:

Citronella Oil

This natural oil comes from lemongrass plants, known for their ability to repel mosquitoes and other pests. It's also used in many skin care products like lotions, soaps, and candles for its pleasant scent and antibacterial properties.

Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil has been shown to kill bed bugs, fleas, and ticks on contact! It also works as an insect repellent by irritating the mouthparts of insects, so they don't want to eat it anymore! This makes it great for deterring bugs while outdoors.

Lavender Oil

This oil is a favorite in aromatherapy for its ability to promote relaxation and sleep. It also helps ward off pesky mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks.

Sage oil

Mood-boosting and invigorating sage are also used in keeping away flies, fleas, and beetles.

Spray non-toxic insect repellent onto your hands and rub it on your client's exposed skin (not the face). You can also spray them around the massage therapy space.

3. Keep your hands clean by washing them often with soap and water or using hand sanitizer between clients.

4. Use a mosquito net to cover the table whenever possible.

5. Be aware of local wildlife to be prepared and take extra precautions. 

By following these tips, you can keep your clients safe from bugs and insects while still enjoying the outdoors!

Dealing With Natural Elements with Outdoor Massages

If it's windy or raining, consider holding off on the outdoor treatment until conditions improve. 

Strong winds could knock down tents or dividers, and rain could ruin blankets or towels you might use as padding during massages.

How to Keep Your Client's Privacy in Mind When Doing Outdoors Massages

Your client's privacy is a top priority, and you want to ensure they feel safe. 

For example, you might have clients concerned about the possibility of being seen by others while getting a massage outdoors.

Here are seven ways to keep your client's privacy in mind when doing outdoor massages:

1. Ensure that passersby or neighbors don't compromise your client's privacy. If there's no way for people on the street or inside their homes to see what's happening, you can relax more about their privacy. But if there is any chance that someone could know what you're doing, then it would be best if you’re behind a fence or hedge. Use a tent, curtains, or divider when necessary
   
   
2. Make sure that no one can hear during the session either. This means avoiding loud music or other distractions that might make it hard for them to relax.
   
   
3. Set up your space so it is facing away from other people or places where people might be walking by or watching. For example, if you're working on a lawn or beach, set up your massage table so that it faces away from other people. Or places where people might be walking by or watching.
   
   
4. Ask people (if there are any around) to keep their distance.
   
   
5. Ask your client if they would like to use a towel or blanket to cover themselves during their massage session (if appropriate). This may help them feel more comfortable during their session.
   
   
6. If possible, have someone else with you in case of an emergency. You should never leave your client alone during a massage session, even if they seem fine.
   
   
7. Don't give out information about your clients unless they give permission first.

What are the Benefits of Practicing Outdoor Massage?

Massage therapy is an incredibly healing practice. The known benefits of massage are:

1. Alleviates muscle pain and tension
   
   
2. Reduces stress and anxiety level
   
   
3. Improves blood circulation
   
   
4. Aids in removing toxins from the body
   
   
5. Improves digestion
   
   
6. Lowers blood pressure and heart rate
   
   

Add to these the incredible healing benefits of being in nature, and you have a solid combination for improving your wellness.

1. Increased oxygen level. Outdoors is a good source of oxygen. And our bodies need oxygen for our organs to function well.
   
   
2. Your body absorbs nature's electrons. The earth's negatively charged electrons have significantly improved sleep and reduced pain. They also support cardiovascular health.
   
   
3. Being in harmony with nature improves a person's well-being
   
   
4. If the massage under the sun helps activate vitamin D, which is vital in the growth and development of bones and teeth, and resistance to some diseases. Make sure the massage is done not while the sun is at its peak.
   
   
5. Getting a massage under the canopy of stars enhances relaxation. In addition, the sound of nature improves a person's cognitive abilities.

Takeaway

The benefits of outdoor massage therapy are hard to ignore. 

The soothing sounds of nature, the fresh air, and the warm sun all combine to create an experience that indoor treatments can't match.

But some challenges come with treating clients outside the comforts of four walls. While these risks are generally minimal, you must always be prepared.

You can set up a safe outdoor massage therapy space with proper planning and preparation. And with the help of the right tools, like a professional portable massage table, you can keep your clients happy and comfortable.

Click here to view our article about everything you need to know about mobile massage therapy.

Bio Healing Plus has the best selection of massage tables and chairs in the market. With our large selection, you're sure to find the perfect table for your mobile massage therapy business.

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