We are still dealing with the uncertainty of COVID-19. I certainly take the virus seriously, and therefore I use a certain level of precautions. However, I can’t function well if I don’t have regular massage therapy to release scar tissue, stretch tendons and get fluid into my joints. Massage therapy is a form of physical therapy that I use in conjunction with exercise, stretching and light yoga. As of last month, I had not had a series of massages since 2019, and my body was losing mobility. So, I had to seek out a massage spa in the midst of a pandemic.
Massage Therapy in Spas During COVID-19
While in the Las Vegas area, introducing Applai products to Thai massage operations, I investigated massage spas. The state of Nevada has allowed spas to re-open if certain precautions are taken. I was satisfied with two operations I visited and spent time getting bodywork done over the period of three weeks.
I looked for clean, well run spas in upscale areas with solid reputations. Spas did have the plexiglass separations at the desk, and all employees did wear masks. Disinfectants were used on the tables, and all linens were freshly laid out. As most of your time is spent face down, wearing a mask is not a problem. Therapists wear masks. If any of you have routinely gotten massages in Asia, you will find that this was a common practice long before COVID-19, as they usually wear surgical masks during flu and cold season.
What to Look For in a Massage Spa During The COVID-19 Pandemic?
I generally have a set of requirements and preferences for spas, and these are certainly not guaranteed:
1. A HEPA Unit
I prefer to see a HEPA unit in the room using a UV or electrostatic ionizer in addition to the filter. The UV and electrostatic options can kill virus and bacteria. If I don’t see one, I recommend the massage spa purchase them.
2. Use Hand Sanitizer Before Starting
I ask the therapist to wash and disinfect with hand sanitizer before beginning. Studies show that 20 seconds of contact with sanitizer is sufficient.
3. New Linens
I prefer to see the linens added to the table after I enter, but a Lysol spray applied to the facial area is sufficient for me.
4. Wearing a Mask
I wear a mask. Your therapist will wear a mask. I am not concerned about eye contact, as I wear contacts. They may offer some protection from virus if I remove and clean them after the massage. I suck on a zinc/vitamin C lozenge while getting a massage.
5. Showering After a Massage
I shower after my massage. I also rinse my nasal passage with a “Netti” saltwater rinse, and I gargle with buffered salt water. I rinse my eyes with saline solution. I place my clothes in the washer prior to showering.
6. A Warm Bath in Epsom Salts
It is good practice to take a warm bath in Epsom salts after a massage and get at least a liter of water into your system. Who doesn’t like steam, but I would avoid any shared bathing facility or public restroom if at all possible.
In order to help curb the spread of the coronavirus, we must all practice safety precautions such as washing your hands, keeping your distance, and wearing a face mask in public when social distancing is not possible. If you are interested in a massage but don’t want to leave your home, Applai Relief products are formulated to bring the feeling of a massage right to your home.