Verbal communication (such using the Friendly Feedback Check-In Checklist) and Nonverbal communication (like impeccable draping) both contribute to maintaining clear agreements and avoiding complaints. Reinforcing clear agreements before, during, and following your session, establishes the safety and trust necessary for clients to heal.
Clients who are new to you, new to your approaches, new to massage in general, and/or who may have experienced abuse, assault or other trespasses in the past require the utmost empathy, respect, and high regard. This can be accomplished by creating clear, neat, and orderly draping at all times.
Being cognizant to protect modesty and be particularly sensitive to client’s perception so they experience your contact as safe, professional, and trustworthy.
As discussed, formulating an agreed upon session goal, an active willingness to giving and receiving requests, and making and keeping impeccable agreements are all
examples of verbal ways to build rapport, trust, and safety.
Impeccable Draping is a nonverbal practice of keeping your agreements.