Getting A Massage In The Time of COVID-19
Since my last client at the end of February, I’ve been thinking about how we can safely reopen, what things would look like then in that ‘new normal’. Since then, Los Angeles County, a region of around 10 million people, has seen almost 36,500 cases, and 1,800 deaths at the time of writing.
It’s been about 9 weeks of coronavirus restrictions and the curve doesn’t show much sign of flattening. I’m sure you’re antsy, touch deprived and going stir-crazy, and it looks like we are going to be under some restrictions through July. But there will be no set date when we will return to our previous lives. And for the next couple of years, we will be adjusting to fit into the ‘new normal’, according to this New York Times article.
While we don’t have a specific date to reopen our doors to see clients, I’m going to share with you what it’s going to look like when we do.
Mask it up. For the safety of both of us, we ask that we both wear masks for the entire duration of the session.
Greetings. You’ll probably notice the absence of my customary hug when you walk in. You won’t get a handshake either. What you will get, though, is a hot towel and some hand sanitizer. You will have to imagine my smile behind my mask just I would have to imagine yours. Hopefully, we will be able to see the twinkle in each other’s eyes.
Checking in. If you book your session online, you’ll be able to fill out the screening form ahead of time, otherwise, we will have to go over your intake screening in person when you arrive. It will include confirming that you aren't sick or haven't been around anyone that has been sick. I will also take your temperature as part of the screening process.
Facedown. For the massage itself, you will be face down for most of your session for your safety and mine as well, turning over only in the last few minutes of your session
Cashless transactions. To reduce contact, it would be preferable to pay for your session and tip (if you decide to tip) by Venmo or CashApp or ApplePay. If you do decide to pay by cash, please use hand sanitizer before and after you hand over the money.
Pure air. We’re investing in an air purifier for the room to help circulate clean, pathogen-free air (or as close to it as possible).
Between sessions. As always, between each session, we remove & replace all sheets and disinfect all surfaces that may have been touched or handled during the service.
For now, we’re watching and waiting, hoping that at some point in the not-too-distant future, we will be able to open back up again. Until then, stay home, stay safe, and wash your hands!
To book your next massage, call/text Trevor at 213.588.4242 or book here.