by Grace Wilson
Having two massage therapists rub you down at the same time certainly sounds luxurious. But how do you know if it’s worth it to pay double the price of a single-therapist massage? The answer depends largely on what you’re looking for. The benefits are well worth it in many cases, but certainly not all. Know what you want, know what you can expect to get out of a four-hand massage, and then make your decision.

What you can expect? In most spas the four-hand massage is a blend of long, flowing, Swedish/Esalen-style strokes. But if you’re going to a place that specializes in a certain type or style of bodywork, ask to be sure. In most cases you’ll be able to request the amount of pressure you prefer, whether light, medium or firm. If you’re modest about your body, know that more of your body will be exposed during your four-hand massage than during a regular massage. Two therapists need more “body” to work on. Your private areas will still remain covered, of course, but you will likely have both legs exposed at once, for example, versus just one at a time with a single therapist.

What makes a four-hand massage so special? Let me illustrate a comparison:

A one-therapist massage feels great. Because it feels so good, it draws your attention to it. You stop worrying about things that may be happening in your life and you sink into the sensations. You’re enjoying what’s happening to your body.

When two-therapists/four hands hit your body, your mind reacts differently. It still feels great, so good that you stop worrying and stressing about things. At the same time, though, your mind isn’t able to focus its attention onto all of the sensations. The brain can’t wrap itself around so many hands in so many different places. To put it simply, it blows your mind.

At first you will find yourself trying to keep track of the therapists, where each one is and what each one is doing, struggling to keep it all in a very logical order in your head. But very quickly your brain realizes it’s not sure who is doing what, and gives up control. This is a powerful treatment for anyone who has a hard time letting go of thoughts. Not only will you emerge after the massage with relaxed muscles, but your mind will be clear of clutter. Anyone dealing with anxiety, depression, or over-active mental chatter should try a four-hand massage to experience its benefits. And if you’re an extremely busy person where it’s hard for you to find the time to schedule massage appointments, here’s the perfect way to get an hour’s worth of bodywork in just half an hour.

When is it better to stick with one therapist? Whenever you need specific body parts addressed with deep-tissue sculpting, myofascial release, or any other type of clinical bodywork. In these situations it’s confusing to have two people trying to fix a structural issue in your body - too many cooks in the kitchen. Enjoy being with one really great therapist and keep your mental attention focused on relaxing the body parts she or he is working on.