The ultimate therapy

I'm a sucker for a massage, I'll face plant onto a fold-out bed in the middle of a shopping centre, busy markets or middle of the road. Some days I like a little more pummeling than others, but I can't think of anything more nurturing. Lately I've come to notice not everyone is as go-lucky as I in the presence of a masseuse. Some come out worse than when they went in, which is such a shame. But don't give up peeps, there are ways to make it work for you...

* Be clear before you lie down that you'd like a very, very soft massage - no thumbs, no elbows, no knot-untangling and no cracking necks. Tell them you're there to relax, not sort out muscular/skeletal problems
* If you'd rather they didn't go near your feet/head/face/bum, tell them. No-go zones are fair enough!
* If all or particular aromatherapy drives you nuts, be specific. Ask for unscented oils and no candles/incense burning nearby
* If you're super self-conscious, wear strapless swimmers or a boob tube - they can work around it. Better to be comfortable from the outset than worrying about your bits
* Pregnant? You need a trained prenatal professional - not just anyone will do. They need to avoid all pressure points, most aromatherapy and know how to make you feel better. Breastfeeding? Recovering from an injury? Suffer from migraines? Retaining too much fluid? Ask them if they normally treat people in your position before you book. Ask them to show/send you their qualifications if you're still unsure

Live in Sydney? Do yourself the biggest favour ever and book in with Susie or one of her goddesses at Stone Soul in Balmain. This is where I go for TLC - facials, la stone therapy, manis, pedis, reflexology and best of all, massages. It's like getting the biggest hug imaginable.