What to Expect in Your First Tantra Massage Session

If you're considering your first tantra massage session, you probably have questions — and maybe some nerves. That's completely normal. Tantra work can feel mysterious, and the internet doesn't always give accurate information.

This guide walks you through exactly what to expect, based on how I run sessions at my Ubud practice. My approach is boundaries-first, trauma-informed, and designed to help you feel safe every step of the way.

Before You Arrive

Communication

After you book via WhatsApp or email, I'll send you a brief questionnaire. This isn't about judging you — it's about understanding your experience level, any trauma history, and your intentions for the session. This helps me tailor the work to your needs.

Preparation

On the day of your session:

• Shower — arrive clean and fresh
• Clothing — wear loose, comfortable clothing
• Food — eat light, avoid heavy meals 2 hours before
• Hydration — drink water, but don't overdo it right before
• Intentions — think about what you're seeking from the session

Arrival (Minutes 1-10)

When you arrive at my Ubud temple space, you'll notice it's designed for relaxation — clean, calm, and private. I'll greet you and offer tea or water. We'll sit briefly to connect before any work begins.

This is time to:

• Settle in and get comfortable
• Share any concerns or questions
• Begin establishing trust

There's no rush. If you need more time to feel safe, take it. Your nervous system sets the pace.

Intention & Boundaries (Minutes 10-20)

This is the most important part of the session. We co-create two things:

1. Intention

What are you seeking? This could be:

• Stress relief and relaxation
• Trauma release or nervous system regulation
• Deeper self-awareness or presence
• Exploring sensuality in a safe container
• All of the above

2. Boundary Map

You decide what feels safe. We'll discuss:

• Touch areas — what parts of your body can be touched
• Touch type — pressure, speed, intensity that feels good
• Clothing — what stays on, what can be removed
• Off-limits — anything that's a hard no for you

You can change your boundaries at any time. What feels safe at minute 5 might not at minute 45. That's okay. I'll check in regularly, and you can always speak up.

Grounding & Breathwork (Minutes 20-30)

Before any hands-on work begins, we down-regulate your nervous system. Trauma and stress keep your body in a state of alert. We need to signal safety first.

I'll guide you through:

• Diaphragmatic breathing — slow, deep breaths into your belly
• Body scan — noticing sensations without judgment
• Grounding — feeling your connection to earth and the space

This isn't just relaxation — it's nervous system regulation. You may feel your shoulders drop, your jaw soften, your breathing slow. That's your body shifting from alert mode to rest mode.

Hands-On Work (Minutes 30-90)

The length of hands-on work depends on the session type you booked. Here's what to expect during the bodywork:

Conscious Touch

Unlike massage you've experienced before, every touch is intentional and present. I'm not going through routines — I'm responding to what your body communicates. If an area holds tension, we work there. If something doesn't feel good, we stop.

Energy Awareness

Tantra works with energy as well as tissue. You may feel:

• Heat or warmth in certain areas
• Tingling or subtle sensations
• Emotional waves — sadness, joy, release
• A sense of expansion or openness

All of this is normal. I'll guide you through whatever arises. Nothing is wrong, nothing needs to be fixed — we're creating space for what is.

Breath Integration

I may guide your breath during certain parts of the session. Breath is the bridge between conscious and unconscious mind. Working with breath helps release stored energy and deepen presence.

Check-Ins

I'll check in regularly: "How is this for you?" "Would you like more or less pressure?" "Are you still feeling safe?"

You can also speak up anytime. This is collaborative, not something being done to you.

Integration (Minutes 90-100)

After the hands-on work ends, we don't just rush you out the door. Integration is essential. You'll have time to:

• Ground — come back fully into your body and the room
• Reflect — share anything that came up during the session
• Integrate — make sense of the experience verbally

I'll offer tea and we'll sit together. This is also when I may share observations or recommendations for home practice.

After Your Session

Immediate After-Effects

You might feel:

• Deeply relaxed and peaceful
• More embodied or "in" your body
• Emotional — tears, joy, release
• Tired — energy work can be exhausting
• Spacious — mental chatter may have quieted

All normal. All welcome.

That Evening/Next Day

Self-care matters. After your session:

• Drink plenty of water
• Avoid alcohol and heavy substances
• Rest if you need to — don't schedule intense activities
• Journal if insights are coming through
• Be gentle with yourself

Integration Over Time

One session can be powerful, but integration happens over days and weeks. You may notice:

• Better sleep
• More emotional regulation
• Increased body awareness
• New insights about patterns or behaviors

If you want to go deeper, a series of 3-6 sessions is often most transformative. But there's no pressure — one session is complete in itself.

Common First-Timer Concerns

Ready to Book Your First Session?

If you're feeling called to explore tantra work, I'd be honored to support your journey. My practice in Ubud, Bali offers year-round availability with a trauma-informed, boundaries-first approach.

WhatsApp is the fastest way to reach me. Most inquiries are answered within 30 minutes during business hours (9am-7pm Bali time).