Lomi-lomi massage, originating in Hawaii and known as Hawaiian massage, is an exceptional massage technique designed to relax the body and mind. Extremely popular in spas and wellness centers, this type of massage requires specific preparation in terms of clothing in order to make the most of this unique experience. This article will guide you through the various options for making the most of your massage.
Comfort first
The most important criterion for choosing the right outfit for a treatment is comfort. Indeed, as the main objective of this massage is to relax you, it’s essential that you feel comfortable.
Loose and supple
Opt for something light and loose, allowing great freedom of movement during the massage. Natural fabrics, such as cotton or linen, are ideal for avoiding chafing and irritation of the skin. Avoid synthetic materials, which can provoke allergic reactions or simply make you uncomfortable.
Suitable for massage manipulations
During a Lomi lomi massage, masseurs use their hands, forearms and elbows to perform fluid movements all over the body. That’s why it’s important to choose clothing that facilitates these manipulations.
- Your upper body should be covered by a loose, supple T-shirt or tank top. Avoid turtlenecks, and choose a neckline wide enough to allow the masseur easy access to your neck and the base of your skull.
- As a Lomi-lomi massage is usually performed barefoot, you’ll need a pair of light, non-slip socks to avoid slipping when moving between rooms.
- For the lower body, prefer elastic pants, leggings or shorts, depending on your comfort level and the ambient temperature. Fabrics that are too tight around the waist should be avoided, as they can exert unpleasant pressure on your abdomen during the massage.
Don’t forget that Lomi-lomi massage also works on the arms, legs and feet. So make sure your undergarments can easily be pulled up to expose certain parts of your body.
Choosing undergarments for a Lomi-lomi massage
The choice of undergarments is also essential for a successful Lomi-lomi massage experience. It’s generally recommended to keep them on, especially to respect everyone’s privacy. However, each individual is free to choose what suits him or her best in terms of comfort. Here are a few tips to help you make the right choice:
- The bra can be kept if you prefer, but choose a model without underwires or whalebones, which could exert uncomfortable pressure on your bust during handling. A brassiere or soft bandeau may also be a good alternative for women.
- For men, lightweight boxer shorts or briefs are recommended to allow the masseur easy access to the buttock muscles and legs without compromising intimacy.
- Choose soft, breathable materials such as cotton or microfiber. Avoid synthetic materials such as polyester, which can cause irritation or allergies.
- Keep it simple: opt for something basic that you can keep on for the long minutes of the treatment.
- Don’t forget that Lomi-lomi massage can be very relaxing, and can lower body temperature. So opt for models that cover your body well (long johns for men, high shorts for women), so you can stay warm and enjoy the benefits.
Essential accessories
Certain accessories can enhance the sensations experienced during a massage:
- A blindfold: this accessory allows you to immerse yourself further in relaxation by blocking all visual stimulation during the massage.
- Cushions: to adjust your lying position according to your needs (supporting the head, wedging the lower back, keeping the legs elevated, etc.).
- Towels: used to cover non-massaged areas and maintain body heat during the massage.
The importance of hygiene and personal care
Before your Lomi-lomi massage session, it’s essential to take certain hygiene and personal care precautions:
- Showering: remember to shower a few hours before the massage to eliminate impurities and ensure a refreshingly clean sensation during the massage. Don’t forget that the masseur will be working on various parts of your body, including your feet, so it’s important to clean them well.
- Hydration: make sure you drink enough water in the hours leading up to your Lomi-lomi massage. This will help eliminate toxins and prevent dehydration caused by the masseur’s vigorous movements.
- Jewelry: remove all jewelry (necklaces, bracelets, earrings, watches, etc.) to make it easier for the masseur to handle, and to avoid any risk of loss or damage, particularly from the massage oil.
Adapt to the massage location
Depending on where the massage takes place, you may need to adapt your attire accordingly. Here are a few tips to help you choose the best option according to the context:
At a spa or institute
In this type of facility, bathrobes and towels are generally provided for customers. In this case, it’s best to choose discreet, comfortable lingerie, as mentioned above, as you’ll be keeping them on during the massage. The rest will be replaced by items provided by the establishment. Don’t forget to take a bag with you to store your belongings. Bear in mind that you’ll need to leave your belongings in the massage room for the duration of the treatment.
At home
If you’re receiving this massage directly at home, make sure you have something loose and supple, such as elastic pants and a loose, flowing top. Don’t forget to pack the necessary accessories (towels, cushions), as well as any lingerie you may have chosen, to make the most of your at-home massage.
Duration
The duration of a Lomi-lomi massage is a fundamental aspect in guaranteeing total immersion in the relaxing experience it offers. Typically, these massages can last between 60 and 90 minutes, providing ample time to work on the whole body of the person being massaged. During this time, the masseur uses a variety of natural oils to facilitate gliding over the skin, ensuring a gentle, deep application that contributes to muscle relaxation and calming the mind.
This length of time not only allows all specific points of tension to be addressed, but also ensures that the person being massaged can achieve a state of deep relaxation. The application of oil throughout the massage ensures that the skin remains moisturized and supple, enhancing the effectiveness of the massage techniques used and the overall feeling of well-being. The extended duration of the massage is essential to enable a smooth transition between the different massage phases, ensuring that every part of the body receives the attention it needs for complete relaxation.
To sum up: let comfort be your guide
There’s no such thing as a “uniform” for a Lomi-lomi massage, except an outfit in which you’ll feel comfortable and which will facilitate the masseur’s fluid movements over your body. Loose-fitting, supple clothing and discreet, comfortable lingerie are the basis for a pleasant, relaxing experience. Each of these elements will contribute to a successful massage session, allowing you to make the most of the soothing and revitalizing benefits of a Lomi-lomi massage.
