If a male client gets excited during a massage, it is generally considered a normal and involuntary physiological response that can occur due to the relaxation and stimulation of the nervous system, and it is typically not seen as a sexual event by professional therapists.
Understanding the Body's Response
Getting an erection during a massage, sometimes referred to as a "table erection," is a common experience for male clients. It is not necessarily tied to sexual arousal but rather to the body's deep state of relaxation.
During a massage, the parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for the body's "rest and digest" functions, becomes more active. This can lead to various physiological responses, including increased blood flow, which can result in an erection.
What Professional Therapists Know
Professional massage therapists understand that the body reacts in various ways to touch and relaxation. They are trained to maintain a professional and non-judgmental environment.
As stated in the reference: "Just relax, enjoy and know that you are not being judged for getting one, it is just the body reacting to something that feels good, it is normal and is what it is." This highlights the professional perspective that such reactions are part of the physical experience and are not viewed negatively.
Key Takeaways from the Reference
- It is a normal body reaction: The reference explicitly states that it is "just the body reacting to something that feels good, it is normal and is what it is."
- You are not being judged: Therapists are professional and understand this physiological response.
- It doesn't necessarily mean it's sexual: The reaction is often a result of relaxation and nervous system response, not necessarily sexual intent or arousal.
- It doesn't define sexual orientation: The reference clarifies that if you have a massage by a male therapist and get an erection, "it doesn't mean it is something sexual nor does it make you 'gay'."
What to Do (Or Not Do)
Given that this is a normal, physiological reaction, the simplest approach is often to simply acknowledge it internally and continue to relax.
- Just relax: Focus on enjoying the massage and the therapeutic benefits.
- Don't feel embarrassed: Understand that this is a common and accepted possibility in the professional massage environment.
- Know it's temporary: The reaction typically subsides on its own as the body's state changes or the massage continues.
In essence, getting excited during a massage is a physical reaction that professional therapists are accustomed to and understand as a normal, non-sexual occurrence. The focus remains on the therapeutic benefits of the massage session.