I recently met a woman who said she had always wanted to try massage, but chose not to because she had a very poor image of her body. She is not alone-- many people deny themselves the gift and therapeutic benefit of touch due to self-consciousness and body image issues.
As we spoke, I recalled reading a study that indicated how massage helped improve body image in women who battled with eating disorders. Therapeutic touch can help connect you with your body and also releases your body's own natural happy chemicals!
For anyone who would like to try massage, but has these types of concerns; I would urge you to find a therapist with whom you can create a partnership and who will work with you at your comfort level. You might start with Reflexology of the hands or feet (or both) or Energy Work- both of which you can receive while clothed. Also know that, for any massage, you can undress to your level of comfort. Though many choose to undress to their underwear or completely, we can tailor our work if you choose to keep more clothing on. We also keep you covered during the session, other than the area upon which we are actively working. Your therapist should be open to your concerns and take the time to discuss them with you.
One last thought. In my own experience, I can tell you that I am not thinking about what someone looks like on my table or whether or not they shaved their legs. During a session, my attention focuses on areas of tension I feel in the muscles, etc.. and what type of work I should perform to relieve it.
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