Shawn Stewart – How to Build Trust Through Draping

In this episode, Gael sits down with award-winning massage therapist and Hall of Fame inductee Shawn Stewart to explore one of the most overlooked skills in massage therapy: draping. From building instant trust to maintaining safety, professionalism, and client comfort, Shawn explains why a secure, intentional drape is one of the most powerful tools a therapist has. This conversation shines a light on the standards, techniques, and communication practices that help clients feel safe, respected, and fully able to relax.

Whether you’re a new therapist or a seasoned practitioner, this episode will help you refine your draping skills, reduce anxiety in session, and elevate your overall professionalism. You’ll walk away with practical strategies, new awareness, and a deeper understanding of how draping shapes the entire client experience.

Shawn Stewart is the owner of Stone Tower Massage, a CE provider, and a decorated massage therapist known for excellence in both wellness and sports categories. He has earned Gold in Wellness Massage, Silver in Sports, and recognition as the 4th Best Sports Massage Therapist in the world. As a judge for multiple massage championships, he brings a unique perspective on what truly creates trust, safety, and high-level professional standards. His passion for body mechanics and longevity in the field informs his teaching and hands-on approach.

Key Topics Covered

1. Why Draping Is the Foundation of Client Trust

2. The “High and Tight” Standard and What It Communicates

3. How Competitions Judge Draping and Common Mistakes

4. Special Considerations for Male Therapists

5. The Role of Communication in Building Client Confidence

6. Adapting Draping for Different Body Types and Movements

7. Practical Drape Techniques for Arms, Legs, and Stretching

8. Using Draping to Set Professional Boundaries

9. Environment, Comfort, and the Subtle Details Clients Notice

Use Shawn’s Trust-Building Draping Principles

• Safety through secure coverage
• Clear boundaries that protect therapist and client
• Confident, consistent technique
• Intentionality in every fold, tuck, and movement

Memorable Insights

• Draping is one of the strongest nonverbal signals of professionalism
• A loose drape creates uncertainty and disrupts relaxation
• Male therapists must be especially intentional to establish trust
• Clients assume your draping standard reflects your whole practice
• Confidence in your drape creates confidence in your session
• Draping is a skill that improves with study, practice, and observation

Resources Mentioned

🤝 Connect with Shawn on Facebook 🔗 https://www.facebook.com/sdslmt
🌐 Follow Shawn on Instagram 🔗 https://www.instagram.com/stmassage_shawn/ 

Connect with the 2025 Summit Sponsors

💆🏻‍♀️ Spa Marketing 🔗 https://go.spamarketing.com/gaelwood
💎 CoreStones 🔗 https://corestonemassage.com/
🧣 Modesty Massage Wrap 🔗 https://modestymassagewrap.com/  

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Links & Contact Info:

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