The Sound of Massage Music

Have you ever noticed the music that is playing in massage clinics?  Chances are that you, the massage client, are not focused on the background music and that is precisely the desired effect that this music is supposed to have.  Music selections vary from therapist to therapist and range from solo piano to Tibetan singing bowls, but for the most part therapists try to play soothing music to add another layer to the client's relaxation.  I know some people think our music selections are not that important in the grand scheme of things, but I disagree and will tell you why.

Say for instance that you love classic rock (like I do).  99% of the time this is what you listen to when you are driving, working out, or soaking up the sun out by the pool.  Do you sometimes sing along with Mr. Mo Jo Risson?  Do you nod your head to the beat?  Tap your hands on the steering wheel and pretend you are the drummer?  Okay that might just be my ex-husband......  Singing along or recognition of a beat will not let your mind relax fully, so this type of music is not the best choice for a massage.

I also have a great love for Harry Connick Jr and some might believe that his music is more laid back and might be appropriate for massage music.  As much as I love that tall drink of water, I would have to argue against him too.  Why?  People tend to hear the words to his songs and mentally sing along with him, thus keeping the mind engaged and not allowing true relaxation.  Another reason is that sometimes the massage therapist gets tuned into the song and their strokes speed up to match the tempo of the music....and yes, I have been sucked in to the brisk massage strokes a time or two.

Even classical music can fall into the bad massage music category.  If you play Beethoven's Fifth or Fur Elise, chances are these tunes will be recognized and the client will be mentally humming along.  If you want to go with classical, add nature sounds like the surf or birds chirping to offset the familiar, or pick some really obscure songs that only a true classical enthusiast will recognize.  Trust me there are not many of those musical experts in Kentucky!

So what guidelines do I follow when selecting music?  Nothing up tempo as slower beats are more soothing.  No songs with words so the client will not be tempted to sing along.  Songs that have no true rhythm are good so the client is not subconsciously trying to keep the beat.  I toss in classical music and the occasional Enigma CD for clients that are not fans of the flutes and stringed ambient music.  Couples massages might get saxophone solos, jazz or love songs.   I am flexible and always want the massage to be a great experience so I am open to requests.  Just no country crooners or rap, lest the massage therapist is allowed to drop elbows and crush spines.....kidding.....kinda.