Performing a Seated Massage
Have a comfortable stool.
The stool you use must be comfortable and adjustable. Make sure the wheels are quiet and can be easily lifted. Master makes some really nice stools.
Have the table set up so you can get your legs under the table.
An electric table is unnecessary but going cheap with a portable table is unwise. Portable tables have ropes under them that will prevent you from sliding under them comfortably. They also have hard knobs on one side. Custom Craftworks builds a wonderful table for seated massage called the Taj Mahal. Its support beams allow you to scoot under it without hitting your knees.
Wear a scrub top shirt with front pockets.
The holster on your hip may not work as effectively when performing a seated massage. I find they twist and turn and sometimes stick me in the tummy. A quality scrub top with a pocket in the front will comfortably hold your massage lubricants.
Have a carpeted floor
You will need to have a carpeted floor that can keep the wheels of your stool quiet when you slide around the table. I suggest putting down wire protectors so you can move over wires without getting the wheels tangled. Avoid rugs because they tend to shift or keep the stool from moving well.
Tie your shoes
Make sure your shoes are tied so they can’t get caught up in the wheels. The last thing you want is to have your shoelaces caught in a wheel. It will pull your attention away from your client as you obsess over getting free.
Have a cart
A cart will provide you with a place to put all of the tools you intend to use throughout your session. While you are seated you have less access to things.
Make sure you have enough room
Many massage rooms are too small, even for people who are standing. Thankfully I designed my spa so that I could wheel around the room. If you are looking at a new space, bring in a portable massage table and a stool and see if you will have enough room.
Use a strong massage table
Portable tables are the worst way to go. They are not anchored down well and can be moved throughout a session. When you are performing a seated massage the under edges of your massage table can be used to pull you from one area to another without taking your attention away from the client. The under edges can also be used to get a little more force when needed. You can grab the under edge with one hand to pull you closer as you apply pressure with the other. This will help make sure you aren’t over stressing a single arm by sharing the burden with your body and another arm.
