Getting a massage is a big deal for most people. When else do you have 30 minutes, 60 minutes, 90 minutes, or even 120 minutes of relaxation time with someone who is looking to make you feel completely at ease while also ridding you of the pains and strains that are the unavoidable products of our busy lives? So, to help you make the most of your massage therapy session-no matter the duration or type-I have put together a list of simple tips you can follow to ensure a mind-numbing massage experience! These tips can also be found on the American Massage Therapy Association’s website.
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1. Arrive at your massage session with an open mind. Dispel any and all fears you may have and just go with the flow! Remember, you are there to relax.
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2. Do not eat immediately before your massage session. Allow your body to digest your food to avoid feeling bloated and uncomfortable on the table.
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3. Be on time (or early) to your massage appointment. You do not want to arrive to your appointment in a frenzy because you are late—it will take longer for you to relax and, therefore, waste your valuable time with the therapist. If you arrive early, you will have more time to relax physically and emotionally before your appointment, maximizing the amount of deep relaxation time you will have once your session begins.
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4. Do what makes you comfortable—especially when it comes to undressing. Only remove those articles of clothing you feel comfortable removing. If you feel comfortable in the buff, feel free to take it all off. If not, wear clothes that are comfortable for you and easy for the massage therapist to work with as he or she massages the key areas of the body.
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5. Communicate, communicate, communicate! I cannot stress enough the importance of communication during a massage. Remember that your massage therapist is dedicated to providing you with the most relaxing experience possible, but they can only succeed in this if you are open and honest with them. Things that you want to be sure to communicate include:
- Health History: Be sure to give your therapist a complete and accurate account of your health and provide him or her with your expectations and reasons for seeking a massage.
- Allergies: Massage therapists use a myriad of different lotions, oils, and powders to reduce friction on the skin. Let your massage therapist know right away if you are allergic to any of these products or their ingredients, so that they may choose an alternative.
- Preferences: Do you like to talk during your massage? Do you prefer music or silence? Is it too dark or too bright? Let your massage therapists know of your preferences in the beginning so that you maximize your relaxation time.
- Feedback: Be sure to provide the massage therapist with feedback regarding pressure and speed whenever necessary. Also, if you experience any discomfort, speak up right away so that they can correct the issue and resume providing you with a pleasurable experience as quickly as possible.
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6. Breathe, Just Breathe: There is no need to alter your breathing during a massage. In fact, doing so may keep you from being able to completely relax as breathing facilitates relaxation.
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7. Relax your Body and your Mind: Try not to contract or tighten your muscles during your massage session—this is counterproductive. Also, try to keep your mind at ease. If you have trouble doing this, the American Massage Therapy Association suggests focusing on your massage therapist’s hands and how each movement makes you feel.
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8. Drink Plenty of Fluids: You will want to drink plenty of fluids for 24-48 hours after your massage to ensure adequate hydration. Massage therapy releases toxins in the body that can leave one feeling sick if they do not drink enough water.
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9. Take it Easy: After your massage is over and your massage therapist leaves you in the room to redress, take some time to absorb the results of your massage before trying to get up. When you are ready to get up from the table, do so slowly as you may find yourself feeling a little lightheaded or dizzy.
Do you have any tips that are not included on this list? If so, please share below!
