to be so worried about having a massage it will probably negate the benefits of having a massage?

[CertainlyToomsRemains]

I'm just so self-conscious and I think I would just be lying all clenched, thinking about them thinking about my body.

So what's the friffing point?

AIBU to think this or should I accept the massologist as a professional?

IME it ruins it, I didn't find it relaxing at all!

Gosh, and I thought I was a worrier!! That never occured to me- I just enjoyed the massage!! Do you know the person doing the massage? If not, why are you worried what they think???

I've felt like that in the past. But they see all sorts of bodies, I promise. Perhaps you can talk to whoever is doing it before and talk through your anxieties?

I stick to back massages for this very reason and there are some types of massage where you keep your clothes on. But no, there isn't any point having it if you're just going to feel terrible.

Maybe think about changing it to an Indian Head Massage in this case, or back massage as onequestion has suggested.

Or foot massage - heaven

Ok.. having read thus far, I have to ask... do you have to be totally naked then?

It was my idea of hell really, sitting in my pants in front of a beautiful beauty therapist, being fondled, them seeing my spots and my stretch marks.

It was a little weird, but a few minutes in I was away with the fairies.

Have one, see how it goes, you won't ever have to have another, but do try it, because I honestly do not care these days and love my massages. From the nice smells, to the warm towels, and the gorgeous feeling of it all - its utter bliss.

I don't even care about my saggy bit or wobbly bits anymore... though I did have to quickly wash my feet once, just before the massage because I'd been wearing my stinky trainers!!

Give it go, hate it or love it, at least you'll have tried it.

Go for it and enjoy it. They see all types of bodys (like my big wobbly one) and are professionals. The lights are low and the majority of your body is usually under a towel. Like already suggested start with just a back/head/foot massage and see how you go.

Think of it this way lots of people who give massage also do other beauty therapies. What do you think they would rather be doing? Rubbing your shoulders or waxing an undercarriage .

I am a massuse, you will keep your knickers on, you can remove your bra if comfortable, if not the therpaist will just undo the straps when working on your back.

After your consulation the therpist will leave you to get undressed and will ask you to lie on the bed, depending on what massage you are having on your front or back and cover your self with a towel.

The only parts of your body exposed will be the area they are working on. You will never be completely uncovered.

Regarding wobbly bits and stretchmarks, don't worry 70% of all people having massages will also have them, your therapist will have seen it all before.

Hope this reassures you a little, nothing better than a massage, or try reflexology or a simple foot massage ,tis heaven.

*therapist

I felt like that but got over it in the first five minutes. 55 minutes of lovely after 5 minutes of clenching was worth it.

I have 2 massage gift vouchers mouldering in my drawer, given as gifts to me.

But I HATE massages, hate getting undressed, hate having facials incase I'm expected to take my shoes off

And the thought of a foot massage URGGHGARGHARAGH

Why would you need totake your shoes off for a facial cyb?

Ooh cyb I love massages, sure you don't want to donate them to a poor student teacher? :o

I love massages, you don't have to be totally naked, but I always take everything off because they can get properly into the muscles if you are.

If you just let yourself go it is really relaxing, - they will play relaxing music, and only uncover the bit of your body they are working on. So although I'm naked, I never feel 'exposed'

Oh and I am fat and wobbly, and covered in scars, I've been to several different masseuses [sp?] and never felt they were judging my body in any way.

Give it a go, because if you do enjoy it, it's a fantastic relaxing, regenerating thing to have.

I think I mean energising not regenerating

I hate massages too.

In Turkey a few years ago my pal made a bet with me that I wouldn't go to have a turkish one done. Well, after shed loads a few cocktails I turned very brave and said I would.

Got undressed down to my "magic costume" from M&S

Supposed to stay in the sauna for 10 mins, sod that I was out in 2.

Had to lie on a slab whilst a bloke intermittently threw cups of cold water over me whilst whacking with with a soapy pillowcase. Eyes were now smarting due to soap.

Made to lie on another bed and had green eggy smelling gunge trowelled on my face.

Then for the finale - a full body massage.
I said there was no way I was having a man do this and opted for a woman.

Well, all I can say is I was assalted! Amongst other hugely uncomfortable things she jiggled my tits and smacked my bum.
(unbeknown to me friend had set this up)

NEVER AGAIN!

Quiet- I feel I should when I hoik myself up onto the bed thingy

feel like a prat wearing biker boots up there

Massage....urgh!

15 years ago my sister gave me a voucher for a massage, insisting that I WOULD like it.

The voucher is still in a drawer somewhere if anyone would like it.

I am surprised by the number of massage-refusers here! I love a good massage though I am not that keen on other pampering type treatments, mostly because the therapists usually want to chatter on while doing them. Massage = relaxation and no small talk.