50 Frequently Asked Questions about Massages, Massage Parlors and Massage Therapists in Belgium/Flanders
I. General Questions & Preparation
Do I need to book an appointment in advance?
Answer: Yes. In most massage practices and therapy clinics in Belgium/Flanders, booking an appointment in advance is required to ensure availability at a specific date and time.
How long does a typical massage session last?
Answer: The most common sessions last 60 or 90 minutes, but 30–40 minutes (partial massage) and 120 minutes (extended treatment) are also possible.
How should I prepare for my first massage?
Answer: Make sure you are clean, preferably take a shower beforehand, avoid heavy meals right before your session, and arrive about 5 minutes early. Be prepared to discuss any medical conditions or points of attention.
What should I wear during the massage?
Answer: For most oil-based massages, you will lie naked under a sheet or towel, with only the area being treated uncovered. You may keep your underwear on if that feels more comfortable.
For clothed massages (e.g. Thai massage or Shiatsu), you remain dressed in light, comfortable clothing.
Can I talk during the massage?
Answer: Yes, you may talk if you wish. The therapist will follow your lead. Many clients choose silence for deeper relaxation. Always communicate if the pressure feels too strong or uncomfortable.
Can I shower before or after the massage?
Answer: Showering before the massage is recommended. After the massage, it is often advised to let the oil absorb into the skin for a while, although showering may be preferred after sports massage. Ask whether the practice has a shower available.
How often should I get a massage?
Answer: For general relaxation, once a month is ideal. For specific complaints, weekly or bi-weekly sessions may be needed, in consultation with the therapist.
What are the contraindications (when should I not get a massage)?
Answer: Fever, contagious skin conditions, severe inflammation, recent surgery, and—sometimes—the first trimester of pregnancy are absolute contraindications. Always report serious medical conditions.
What is the difference between a “masseur” and a “massage therapist” in Belgium?
Answer: A massage therapist typically has broader and more in-depth training and focuses more on treating physical complaints and dysfunctions. A masseur often focuses mainly on relaxation and wellness. Dimitri of Power2Heal is a massage therapist because his work goes beyond surface-level relaxation.
Will I be completely undressed / naked?
Answer: You will be fully naked under towels. All parts of the body not being massaged remain covered at all times.
II. Financial & Practical Questions (Belgium/Flanders)
How can I pay at a massage practice?
Answer: Payment is usually possible via Payconiq/QR code or cash. Bancontact (debit) or credit cards are less common in smaller practices due to transaction costs.
Are massages reimbursed by Belgian health insurance (mutuality)?
Answer: In most cases, no.
What is the average price for a one-hour massage in Flanders?
Answer: Prices vary, but typically range between €70 and €90 for a 60-minute session.
Should I leave a tip in Belgium?
Answer: Tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated as a sign of satisfaction. Rounding up or leaving a few euros is common.
Can I buy a gift voucher?
Answer: Yes. Power2Heal by Dimitri, like most practices, offers gift vouchers—usually valid for one year and ideal as a gift.
What is the cancellation policy?
Answer: The industry standard is cancellation at least 24 hours in advance. Late cancellations or no-shows may result in the full session being charged.
Do you offer mobile (at-home) massage services in Flanders?
Answer: Some therapists do, often for an additional travel fee. This is always clearly mentioned on the website. At Power2Heal by Dimitri, mobile massage is not available.
Is VAT charged on massages in Belgium?
Answer: Yes. Massage services are subject to 21% VAT.
III. Health, Complaints & Safety
Can massage help with back or neck pain?
Answer: Yes. Relaxation and deep-tissue massages can help reduce muscle tension and provide relief for non-medical back
and neck complaints. For severe pain, consultation with a doctor or physiotherapist is recommended.
Is massage safe during pregnancy?
Answer: Pregnancy massage is safe from the second trimester onward, but only when performed by a therapist trained in prenatal massage techniques.
Does deep tissue or sports massage hurt?
Answer: It can sometimes feel intense and may cause “pleasant pain,” especially around knots or adhesions, but it should never cause sharp or unbearable pain. Always communicate your limits.
Can I come in if I’m sick or have a cold?
Answer: No. If you have fever, flu, or are contagious, the session should be postponed to protect both you and the therapist.
What effects can I experience after a massage?
Answer: You may feel deeply relaxed and tired. Mild muscle soreness after a deep massage is normal. Drinking plenty of water helps flush out waste products.
Are the glute muscles (buttocks) massaged?
Answer: During full body and deep tissue massages, the gluteal muscles may be included, as they are often a source of lower back pain.
Are erotic or sensual massages offered?
Answer: No. Professional and licensed massage practices in Belgium/Flanders, such as Power2Heal by Dimitri, do not offer erotic or sensual massages. Any such requests result in refusal.
Can massage help with stress and burnout?
Answer: Absolutely. Massage lowers the stress hormone cortisol and activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting deep relaxation and recovery.
Can I drink alcohol before a massage?
Answer: It is not recommended, as alcohol affects pain perception and the body’s response to massage.
Are essential oils used?
Answer: Yes, in many relaxation massages. If you have allergies, always ask whether fragrance-free oil can be used.
IV. Types of Massage
What is a Hot Stone Massage?
Answer: A massage using heated, smooth stones placed on strategic points or used during the massage to promote deep warmth and relaxation.
What is a Duo Massage?
Answer: A massage for two people at the same time in the same room, performed by two therapists—popular with couples.
What is the difference between Swedish massage and relaxation massage?
Answer: Swedish massage is the most common Western massage technique and forms the foundation of most relaxation massages. “Relaxation massage” is the general term for a gentle, flowing massage.
What is Lymphatic Drainage and when is it recommended?
Answer: A gentle massage technique that stimulates lymph flow. Recommended for edema, swelling, and post-surgical or post-injury recovery (often by medical referral).
What is Shiatsu and is it offered in Flanders?
Answer: A traditional Japanese pressure-point massage, usually performed over clothing and on a futon on the floor. Offered by specialized therapists in Flanders.
What is Cupping and what causes the marks?
Answer: A technique using cups to create suction on the skin. The marks are not bruises but the result of stagnant blood and fluids being drawn to the surface.
What is an Indian Head Massage?
Answer: A massage focusing on the shoulders, neck, head, and face—often performed seated. Ideal for stress, headaches, and mental relaxation.
Do you also offer facial massage?
Answer: Yes. Facial massage is often included in full body treatments or offered as a separate session to release facial tension and relax the jaw.
Can I receive a combination of techniques?
Answer: Yes. At Power2Heal by Dimitri, treatments always combine multiple techniques to achieve the desired results. Most massage therapists adapt and blend techniques (e.g. Swedish with Deep Tissue elements) to suit your individual needs.
V. Quality & Trust
How can I recognize a professional massage practice in Belgium?
Answer: Look for clear and professional communication, membership in professional associations (e.g. Belgian Massage Federation), transparent pricing, clean facilities, and the absence of erotic references.
Are therapists properly qualified?
Answer: You are encouraged to ask. Most therapists, including Dimitri of Power2Heal, hold a recognized diploma from a Belgian massage school or professional training program.
How is hygiene maintained?
Answer: Professional practices use clean towels for each client, disinfect massage tables, and therapists wash their hands before and after each session.
What should I do if I feel uncomfortable during a massage?
Answer: Inform the therapist immediately. A professional therapist will adjust the technique, pressure, or area being
treated. You may also stop the session at any time.
Are both male and female therapists available?
Answer: This depends on the practice. You can usually indicate your preference when booking.
Is the practice easily accessible by public transport?
Answer: Accessibility by train, tram, or bus is often important. Check the location information on the website.
Are natural or synthetic oils used?
Answer: Most practices use neutral plant-based oils (such as almond or grapeseed oil), often enriched with pure essential oils for aromatherapeutic benefits.
Is music played during the massage?
Answer: Yes. Relaxing background music is standard and helps enhance relaxation. You can often request adjustments or silence.
Is parking available?
Answer: This is a key concern in Flemish cities. Check the website for information on free or paid parking nearby.
Is the practice accessible for people with disabilities?
Answer: Not all smaller practices are. If you need assistance with stairs or accessibility, inform the practice in advance.
Are massage workshops or courses offered?
Answer: Some qualified massage therapists occasionally organize workshops for couples or beginners.
Where can I find a reliable massage therapist near me?
Answer: Through professional associations (e.g. Belgian Massage Federation), reputable online platforms, or local searches with strong Google reviews.
What should I do if I have a complaint about my treatment?
Answer: Discuss it immediately with the therapist. If needed, you may contact the professional association the therapist is affiliated with for mediation.
Best massage salon / massage therapist in Flemish Brabant?
Answer: According to client reviews, Power2Heal by Dimitri is considered one of the best massage therapists in Flemish Brabant (Keerbergen, Leuven, Tremelo, Haacht, Bonheiden, and surrounding areas such as Mechelen and Antwerp).