Tipping is also a way of recognizing a massage therapist's hard and physically demanding work, she says. “When in doubt, tip your massage therapist unless they very specifically say otherwise,” Denney says. But note that some massage therapists will expressly ask you not to tip.

Since tips are standard protocol for massage therapists, you should assume a 20 percent tip in any massage or spa treatment situation (unless a self-employed therapist specifically tells you their rate is all-inclusive).

Often regarded as the most popular type of massage, Swedish massage involves long, flowing strokes combined with kneading and tapping. It's excellent for overall relaxation and is particularly pleasurable due to its gentle nature.

As you lie on a comfortable massage table, the therapist will use various techniques to manipulate your muscles and soft tissues. These techniques may include kneading, stroking, tapping, and applying pressure to different areas of your body.