Massage is among the most beneficial methods in relieving stress.  Massage lessens mental and physical exhaustion, expands flexibility in the joints, aids circulation and releases chronic tension and pain in the muscles. Before participating in this refreshing and restorative experience, let’s examine “What will my massage be like?”

 

Who will perform my massage?

 

A massage therapist (massotherapist) will perform your massage.  They have several years of training, including knowledge of your anatomy and physiology, and are competent in deciding when massage is and is not applicable.

 

What will my role be in my massage?

 

It is important you are comfortable during your massage.  Feel free to shift your position during your massage in order to feel more relaxed.  If your massage therapist needs you to change your position, he/she will move you (like lifting your arm) or tell you how you need to move.

 

You may want to close your eyes and relax during your massage or you may want to talk.  It is your massage and whatever is comfortable for you is acceptable.

 

Needing to take a deep breath or sigh is one way of knowing you are relaxing.  In fact, deep breaths can actually help you relax.

 

What will my first message be like?

 

It is important to arrive 15 minutes early for your first appointment.  This allows you enough time to fill out paperwork (like your medical history) before your massage begins. 

 

The temperature of the massage room will be comfortable and there will be soft music in order to help you relax.  The massage table is specifically designed for stability and comfort. Your massage therapist may offer you pillows for more comfort and support.

 

Your massage therapist will start by inquiring about your general health in order to insure massage is appropriate for you.  He/she will then leave the room so you can undress, make yourself comfortable on the table and drape yourself with a fresh sheet.

 

Many people fully undress for a full body massage while others leave their underwear on.  You will always be covered except for the area being worked on.

 

Unless you choose to keep your clothing on, your massage therapist will generally use a lubricant, such as light oil or lotion, which absorbs well and is healthy for your skin.

 

Your massage will usually start with a light steady touch, followed by broad, flowing strokes.  This will begin to calm your nervous system and release tension in your superficial muscles.  Slowly, as your body becomes ready, your massage therapist will work deeper to relax certain areas.

 

What type of massage will I receive?

 

Most people speak of Swedish massage when discussing different types of massage.  This massage applies small friction-type motions, long light strokes, light tapping, deep kneading and movement of the joints. There are many different techniques your massage therapist may use.  Feel free to ask him/her to explain any other techniques he/she uses.

 

Will my massage tickle?

 

People who are ticklish are usually surprised that a massage does not tickle.  A massage touch is very different from tickling.  The pressure is firm but gentle as the intent is to relax.  Also, your massage therapist chooses strokes that slowly familiarize you to the sensation involved.  Let your massage therapist know if you are very ticklish and he/she can avoid those delicate areas.

 

Will my massage hurt?

 

Massaging healthy tissue feels good.  The deepest and most effective massage works with the body’s natural response not against it.  Feel free to inform your massage therapist if you are feeling any distress so he/she can change to a less painful level.

 

If you are receiving a massage to help a painful area, you may feel some discomfort in the beginning but it will generally ease after a few minutes.  Your massage therapist is trained to reduce pain and will adjust his/her touch to what feels good for you.

 

What will the length of my massage be?

 

Your massage will usually last an hour.  This will be adequate time for a deeply relaxing full body massage, or more intense work on a specific painful area like the back, shoulders or neck.

 

A half-hour massage is a good introduction that can include a partial massage like legs and feet or shoulders, neck and back.

 

One and a half hours allows plenty of time for a full body massage along with more intense work on a specific painful area.

 

How will I feel when my massage is finished?

 

People usually feel very relaxed after their massage and some may even feel free of aches and pains that have been building daily from repetitive activity and/or tension in their lives.  After an initial period of feeling slowed down, some people frequently experience increased energy lasting for several days.

 

Many times the immediate effects of your massage may seem mild, but further changes may occur over the next few days, including a reduction in stress and/or pain and increased mobility.

 

How much will my massage cost?

 

Massage prices vary depending on many different factors.  Feel free to ask your massage therapist what he/she charges before you schedule your appointment.

 

What will I do when my massage is finished?

 

When your massage is completed, your massage therapist will leave the room so you may dress.  Remember:  A massage affects all of your body’s systems and can be profoundly relaxing.  Make sure that you reorient yourself before getting up slowly from the table.

 

How do I learn more about massage?

 

If you still have questions after reading this, your massage therapist will be glad to answer them.  You are entitled to be cautious with your body.  Feel free to call or come in to ask your questions.  Ultimately, the best answers will come from experiencing a massage first-hand. Enjoy!

 

Please be considerate.  If you need to cancel your appointment, please call ahead of time so your timeslot can be filled.  If you are late for your scheduled appointment, that time will be deducted from your massage so the next person will not have to wait.

 

APPROPRIATE

BEHAVIOR

IS EXPECTED.