Teenagers Need Massage, Too!
When you think of someone who’s really stressed out, who comes to mind? My first thought is always a business executive in a Fortune 500 company. Or maybe a medical professional in the ER. A stay-at-home mom with little kids. These are all definitely true, but the one population that never comes to mind, that always absolutely blows me away every time I encounter one in my massage practice is….TEENAGERS!
Every time I give a massage to a teenager I am always shocked at how tight their muscles are. Mentally, they don’t give the impression they are overwhelmed with stress, but their bodies don’t lie. It makes sense when you stop to think about it. Many are dealing with the social and academic pressures of high school. They have to carry heavy backpacks and walk back and forth in giant high schools. My own teenagers don’t even have lockers anymore, so between having to sit in uncomfortable chairs all day, and the miles it feels like they have to walk with heavy bags, they are dealing with a lot of physical stress five days a week. Another aspect for a lot of kids is that they are playing sports at a level that would compete with any professional athlete! Practices every night of the week, specialization in the sport (playing one sport all year round leads to chronically tight muscles in the groups required for that sport), injuries and muscle/tendon tears, concussions, etc. It shows up in their bodies just like it does for adults, yet most parents don’t consider using massage as a tool for them to feel comfortable.
Should you have your teen get a massage? Possibly!
Here are some tips for massage for teenagers:
First and foremost, their comfort with the situation is the most important thing to consider. Obviously. But it has to be said outloud because sometimes a really enthusiastic mom will get an idea in her head and suggest it to her child who has absolutely NO interest in this idea, but who doesn’t really feel comfortable saying no and bashing their mom’s idea. (I may or may not be the mom I speak of.) Getting a massage for the first time from a complete stranger can be intimidating and especially more so for a teenager, so being certain they want to try it is absolutely the most crucial aspect.
Do they have a physical issue that massage could help with? This is not a requirement of course, mental relaxation is more than enough of a reason to get a massage. But using massage as a tool for feeling physically better FIRST usually creates a better experience that leads to mental relaxation after. Relaxing is a learned skill, and most kids at this age come in nervous, it takes a time or two to begin seeing it as a relaxing experience.
Not all businesses provide massage to minors, so be sure to check the business’s policies before scheduling an appointment for your child.
Teens typically have smaller frames than adults, so starting with a 60 minute massage (or less if available) would probably be the best way to start out and then you can adjust later based on experience.
Focusing on relieving the tension of the problem area would be more ideal than a typical full body massage, at least at first until the teen is comfortable receiving massage.
At Massage Refuge, I do massage teenagers. Generally, an appropriate age to start is around 15 or 16 depending on the child. I am required by the city of Leawood to have the parents of anyone under 18 stay on the premises during the massage, though whether you sit in the room or in the waiting room is totally up to you. You also have to sign a consent form. I encourage all teenage clients to wear shorts for their massages until they feel more comfortable. They will be draped with a sheet and blanket like most standard massage sessions, but the extra layer of clothing adds a level of comfort to a first time client.
If you schedule a massage for your teenager, please let me know ahead of time through text or email. It helps me in being able to form a game plan when I have a little more information before the appointment.
If you have questions about whether or not massage would be appropriate, please don’t hesitate to ask me!
Who is Kansas City’s Best Massage Therapist?
I belong to a few Facebook groups for my city and the surrounding areas, and a question that comes up all the time is “Who is the best massage therapist in Kansas City?” or “Who is Leawood’s best massage therapist?” At first glance, someone might think this is a great way to find the perfect therapist. After all, getting a referral from people who have had first hand experience with a service provider IS a tried and true way to find someone for yourself. And why not crowd source in a group with thousands of people?! Seems perfect. But is it?!
No.
Why?
It’s way too vague.
All that happens is 101 people throw up businesses they love and you get no further information than if you were to use Google.
What makes a massage “great” is different for every single person. One client can get a massage and think it was the best massage they’ve ever had in their entire life, and another client can go in and get a nearly identical massage from the same therapist and think it was absolutely THE WORST massage they’ve ever had in their entire life. And that is really not an exaggeration. I have worked in several spas with a lot of really talented and passionate therapists. We saw this situation play out a million times. Massage is a highly subjective experience based on a lot of different factors, and if you want to find a therapist you will love, asking for “the best” will get you nowhere. You have to find “the best FOR YOU.”
To find the best therapist for you, you have to ask more specific questions.
Things to get specific about:
Where in the city are you looking for? Think about the maximum amount of time you’d like to drive and be specific about which towns you are willing to drive to.
What type of business suits the experience you want to have? Do you want to get in the habit of going to one business for multiple services, (like a chiropractor, fitness center, hair salon)? Do you want a franchise with the cheapest possible monthly fee? An independent business owner in a cozy studio (ahem)? Do you want all the frills of a spa experience like hot tubs, saunas, multiple service options, a relaxing lounge?
What type of massage are you looking for? Relaxation, Deep Tissue, someone who does muscle scraping or uses cups? Someone who gives a great scalp/back/foot massage, for example.
Does professionalism matter to you? If so, maybe ask for a recommendation for someone that communicates well, makes it easy to schedule with, doesn’t cancel on you last minute, listens to your concerns, adjusts technique when asked, etc.
Describe the vibe you’re going for. For example: “I’m looking for a therapist who will put me to sleep on the table but who will work out the tight muscles in my lower back with deep pressure” or “I don’t care about frills, I just want to get on the table in shorts and a tank top and have them use deep tissue techniques and stretches.” “Or, I have past trauma and I want to receive a massage with someone who will make me feel safe.”
Every client has their own idea of what makes a great massage, and every therapist has their own idea of what makes a great massage. It can take some trial and error to find The Best. But when you find your therapist, hang on to them with dear life!
Am I Too ______ For a Massage?
“Am I too fat to get a massage?”
One phase that I have heard repeatedly throughout my career is something along the lines of “my sister wants to get a massage but she thinks she’s too fat!” You can swap out the word fat with any other word that a person might use when they are self-consciously thinking about themselves or their body. Too hairy, too old, too much acne, not attractive, not an athlete, too self conscious, too awkward.
I am no stranger to negative self-talk, so believe me, I get it. But as a professional, it absolutely drives me crazy to hear a phrase like that! Human touch is powerful. Receiving touch is literally a necessity for a healthy life. Massage is an amazing tool for physical, emotional, and mental health. So the thought of someone not getting a massage because they think there is something wrong with them and that they shouldn’t get one is a huge bummer.
If you have never received a massage for a reason like this, I’d like to assure you massage therapists DO NOT CARE about any of those critical things you might think about yourself WHATSOEVER. You cannot be “too ___” to receive a massage. Whatever your concerns are, we can make accommodations to account for them.
Professional massage therapists who care about their work and are passionate about their jobs have one concern: to give you the best experience that you can hope for. You are spending a lot of money to receive the treatment, and we don’t take that for granted. From the minute you walk in the door, we are hoping to create an environment where you will receive the most benefits from the massage as possible. We definitely DO look at your body and assess your body type, but it is to make a judgement about how to approach the session. Will this person have areas that are more sensitive? Will the hair require more oil? What areas of their body are most likely going to be tighter than others? Does this person require extra pillows or a different position to keep them comfortable? That’s the extent of what we may be thinking when we “judge” you.
The only thing we care about is that you are clean and cordial. One hundred percent, across the board, ask any massage therapist and everyone will say the same. Be polite to us and don’t put our own health in danger.
The anxiety of being in new situations is a real concern for a lot of people. A lot of new clients come in very nervous because they don’t know what to expect, or they are worried about one hundred things that could “go wrong.” (BTW, nothing can go wrong.) So if this is a reason why you haven’t gotten a massage, I would encourage you to also not let that stop you. The best thing you can do is let the therapist know that it is your first massage, and let them walk you through everything before the massage starts. If you have questions or concerns about receiving a massage, it is totally appropriate to text or email the therapist about them so that you are not coming into the experience blind.
f you are nervous about getting a massage for the first time, I hope you find this to be reassuring. If there is anything I can do to help you, or if I can answer any questions about your personal situation, please feel free to reach out!
How To Get A Perfect Massage
A GREAT MASSAGE COMES FROM GREAT COMMUNICATION AND A MUTUAL UNDERSTANDING OF THE CLIENT’S GOALS. HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO ELEVATE YOUR MASSAGE EXPERIENCE:
Identify your goal prior to scheduling so you can book the appropriate length
Don’t come in rushed
Understand how to ask for the right pressure
During the session, adjust things you don’t like
Find the right frequency for you
Imagine a situation where time and money aren’t limiting factors….how do you get the massage you really need? Massage isn’t rocket science, but it’s not uncommon for people to book solely based on how much time they want to be there for, without factoring in how a shorter or longer appointment will affect their opinion on how good the massage will be. There are important things to consider that will help you understand how many minutes you “should” come for, and how to ask for what you want when you arrive.
FIRST ASK YOURSELF, WHAT IS YOUR GOAL?
Do you need stress relief only, or are you only looking to enjoy a nice massage?
Do you both want to relax but also need some help resolving painful or tense muscles?
Do you only want help with one particular issue and you don’t care if it’s relaxing or not?
CHOOSING LENGTH OF TIME IS HIGHLY DEPENDENT ON YOUR GOAL
If your goal is relaxation only, you have the simplest choice to make. It really is just how long you want to lay on the table for. If you are a tall person, or a person with above average muscle mass, a 75 minute or 90 minute massage would suit you better. There is just physically more to work with and it will help slow down the pace and will make massage feel less rushed.
If you want to relax but you have a problem area, you should get a 75 min massage or a 90 minute massage. A 60 minute massage is *just* enough time to do a full body massage and “extra time” in one place will take away from a different place. If you are okay with that, no problem, we can skip a body part or do it quickly. But in terms of getting a satisfyingly good massage, having that extra 15 or 30 minutes will help meet all of the goals of a full body massage, while also thoroughly working at a problematic area.
If your only concern is getting help with a problematic area, and you don’t care if it is a full body massage, you also have an easy choice to make. Most likely, 60 minutes will be enough time to work the area and the surrounding muscle groups that might be contributing towards the dysfunction. Getting a longer massage would just be a bonus.
DON’T COME IN RUSHED OR LATE
This is a no brainer, but set yourself up for success by being on time. At Massage Refuge, 5 minutes before your start time is the perfect time to arrive because it allows time for a consultation and the massage can start and end on time. You will relax quicker and easier if you are not feeling rushed when you arrive.
HOW TO ASK FOR THE RIGHT PRESSURE
We generally imagine pressure to be light, medium, or firm. What these terms mean in reality is different to each and every person. We use them as general guidelines. If you’ve had enough massages to know what you like, mentioning what you prefer in the beginning of the massage or on the intake form, helps the therapist get closer to your preferences more quickly. If needed, it will be adjusted during the massage, either overall or for one specific area. (For instance, some people like firm pressure the whole body, but have sensitive legs and prefer light pressure to that area.) If you’ve never had a massage before, or you are unsure of what you’d like, the massage will be medium pressure until we learn whether you need more or less. Feel free to ask to change the pressure at any time, whether feedback was asked for or not.
A NOTE ON DEEP TISSUE VS FIRM PRESSURE
Many people go in for a massage and say, “I want a 60 minute deep tissue massage” but what they really mean is, “I want a 60 minute massage and I like firm pressure.” It seems like splitting hairs, but to a massage therapist there is a difference.
“Deep tissue massage” refers to when a massage therapist uses slow and targeted massage techniques to help resolve an issue with a particular muscle. A person with lower back pain might need deep tissue to that area, for example, but it wouldn’t be necessary on the arms, where everything is working correctly and there is no pain with movement.
“Pressure” is the overall depth that the massage therapist is using on the body. It is usually based on “what is deep enough that creates pleasure for the client, but is not so deep that it causes wincing or bracing.” A medium or firm pressure should feel good and will often relieve muscle tension without having to feel too intense.
MAKING ADJUSTMENTS DURING THE SESSION
It is very important that you advocate for yourself and tell your therapist what you like and don’t like. At Massage Refuge specifically, you can ask to turn the heat on the table up or down, heating pads to be taken away or added, scents to be added or removed. More pressure, less pressure. Music turned up, down, or changed to a different type. These preferences are recorded in your client file, so that you don’t have to repeat yourself when you return for your next visit! All of these things are proactively provided for your comfort and enjoyment, but we know not every client enjoys each of these things. Massage therapists are not offended when you ask to adjust things and actually prefer that you do!
FREQUENCY
Last thing to consider when trying to maximize your massage experience is to make sure that you are getting massages a frequently as is appropriate for you. Some people need massage once a week. Some every 2, or 4, or 6. Some people get one once every 12 weeks. The important thing is to watch your body and notice how long it takes before you get uncomfortable again, and to book your massage before that happens. Most therapists will recommend getting a massage every 4 to 6 weeks, because that seems to be the sweet spot for most people. Much like taking pain relievers, it is best if you can stay ahead of the pain and get a massage before a nuisance becomes an emergency. Massage is a great tool to keep your body feeling good, and treating it as a form of maintenance instead of a rescue when everything goes wrong will truly elevate your experience.
What Is Relaxation Massage In Leawood, Kansas?
If you’re searching for relaxation massage in Leawood, KS, you may simply be ready to slow down, reduce stress, and give your body a chance to reset. Relaxation massage focuses on calming the nervous system, easing muscle tension, and promoting overall wellbeing.
At Massage Refuge in Leawood, relaxation massage is designed to create a peaceful experience while gently releasing everyday tension.
What Is Relaxation Massage?
Relaxation massage uses smooth, flowing strokes with light to moderate pressure to encourage circulation and help the body shift out of “fight or flight” mode. Unlike deep tissue or corrective work, the primary goal is stress reduction and full-body relaxation.
This type of massage can help:
Reduce stress and anxiety
Improve sleep quality
Ease general muscle tightness
Lower overall tension
Support emotional and physical balance
Many clients describe feeling lighter, calmer, and deeply rested after their session.
Who Benefits from Relaxation Massage?
Clients in Leawood, Overland Park, and the Kansas City area often choose relaxation massage when they:
Feel overwhelmed or mentally fatigued
Have mild muscle tightness from daily life
Want quiet time to recharge
Are new to massage therapy
Prefer lighter, soothing pressure
If you’ve searched for “relaxation massage near me,” you’re likely looking for a peaceful environment where you can truly unwind.
Relaxation Massage vs. Therapeutic Massage
Therapeutic massage focuses on targeted pain relief and specific muscle issues, but also includes relaxation based massage techniques. It blends deep tissue and relaxation together. Relaxation massage is centered on calming the body and mind while still addressing general tension.
Both approaches offer benefits, and sessions can be adjusted depending on how you’re feeling that day.
Looking for Relaxation Massage in Leawood, KS?
Massage Refuge provides professional relaxation massage in Leawood, serving clients from Overland Park and the greater Kansas City area. Each session is tailored to help you slow down, release tension, and leave feeling restored.
If you’re ready to step away from stress and reconnect with a sense of calm, relaxation massage may be the perfect choice. Read more about services and add-ons here.
What is Therapeutic Massage in Leawood, Kansas?
If you’re searching for therapeutic massage in Leawood, KS, you may be looking for more than simple relaxation. Therapeutic massage focuses on relieving pain, reducing tension, and improving how your body functions day to day.
At Massage Refuge in Leawood, therapeutic massage sessions are customized to address specific areas of discomfort while still creating a calm, restorative experience.
What Is Therapeutic Massage?
Therapeutic massage is a results-focused approach to bodywork. Instead of using one fixed technique, it blends methods such as deep tissue, targeted muscle work, and relaxation techniques depending on your needs.
The goal is to:
Reduce muscle tension
Relieve neck and shoulder pain
Ease lower back discomfort
Improve mobility and flexibility
Decrease stress-related tightness
Support recovery from repetitive strain
Each session is personalized, meaning pressure and techniques are adjusted based on what your body needs that day.
Who Benefits from Therapeutic Massage?
Clients in Leawood, Overland Park, and the Kansas City area often choose therapeutic massage if they:
Sit at a desk for long hours
Experience chronic muscle tightness
Have tension headaches
Feel stress building in their shoulders or back
Want focused pain relief without an overly intense experience
If you’ve searched for “therapeutic massage near me,” you’re likely looking for relief that feels both effective and supportive.
Therapeutic Massage vs. Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage focuses specifically on deeper muscle layers and sustained pressure. Therapeutic massage may include deep tissue techniques, but it is broader in scope, as it works on calming the nervous system as well.
Therapeutic massage is ideal if you want:
Targeted pain relief
Customized pressure
A blend of focused work and relaxation
Ongoing maintenance for stress and posture
It’s a balanced approach designed to improve comfort and function. Read more about deep tissue massage here if you would like more information on it, or read about relaxion massage here if you are interested in something a little more soothing.
Looking for Therapeutic Massage in Leawood, KS?
Massage Refuge provides personalized therapeutic massage in Leawood, serving clients from Overland Park and the greater Kansas City area. Sessions are tailored to your unique tension patterns and wellness goals.
If you’re ready to reduce pain, improve mobility, and feel more at ease in your body, therapeutic massage may be exactly what you need. Read more about services and add-ons here.
What Is Deep Tissue Massage? Benefits for Pain Relief in Leawood, KS
If you’re searching for deep tissue massage in Leawood, KS, you’re likely dealing with ongoing muscle tension, tightness, or chronic discomfort. Unlike a standard relaxation massage, deep tissue massage is designed to address deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue to relieve pain and restore mobility.
At Massage Refuge in Leawood, clients often seek deep tissue massage for stress-related tension, postural strain, and persistent muscle tightness.
What Is Deep Tissue Massage?
Deep tissue massage is a therapeutic massage technique that uses slow, focused strokes and sustained pressure to release muscle adhesions (often called “knots”). These adhesions can limit movement, restrict circulation, and contribute to pain.
By working into deeper muscle layers, deep tissue massage helps:
Reduce chronic neck and shoulder tension
Ease lower back discomfort
Improve mobility in tight hips and legs
Relieve headache-related muscle strain
Support recovery from repetitive stress
While pressure is firm, it should never feel overwhelming. Communication during your session ensures the work remains effective and comfortable.
Who Benefits from Deep Tissue Massage?
Many clients in Leawood and the surrounding Kansas City area choose deep tissue massage if they:
Sit at a desk for long hours
Experience recurring muscle tightness
Have stress-related tension
Exercise regularly and feel muscle fatigue
Want focused therapeutic work rather than light relaxation
If you’ve searched for “deep tissue massage near me” because of ongoing tension, this approach may be the right fit.
Deep Tissue vs. Relaxation Massage
Relaxation massage focuses on calming the nervous system and promoting overall wellness. Deep tissue massage, on the other hand, targets specific problem areas and deeper muscle layers to relieve pain and improve function.
At Massage Refuge, deep tissue work is targeted towards the problem area, leaving some body parts untouched, depending on time restraints. Relaxation massage is almost always a full body massage, unless otherwise requested.
Looking for Deep Tissue Massage in Leawood, KS?
Massage Refuge provides personalized deep tissue massage in Leawood, serving clients from Overland Park and the greater Kansas City area. Each session is tailored to address your unique areas of tension while maintaining a calm and professional environment.
If you’re ready to reduce pain and feel more comfortable in your body, deep tissue massage may be an excellent next step.
If you’re unsure whether deep tissue massage is right for you, you may also want to explore our Therapeutic Massage in Leawood, Kansas page, which blends targeted work with relaxation techniques. For those primarily seeking stress relief, you can read Relaxation Massage in Leawood, Kansas. Find more information on services and add-ons here.