When you make a massage appointment, do you want a so-so experience or a great one? Try these tips for making the most of your massage.
Part of a great massage experience depends on the massage therapist.
Do some research. Check them out online, talk to a friend, or talk to the massage therapist before your appointment. Ask questions about things that are important to you, such as a condition or pain you are having. Explain what you want. If you leave something unsaid, it will likely be on your mind during the massage – which prevents you from relaxing as much and getting all of the benefits you can.
This is your time and when you walk out the door you should feel much better. I am happy to spend a few minutes before we start to understand exactly what you want and to answer the questions you have, so your mind is at ease with no nagging questions or issues. Don’t worry about what I will think of your questions, concerns, or your body. Many people have the same common concerns, so you probably aren’t the first one to ask.
Part of a great experience depends on you. What can you do to make your massage great?
Arrive a few minutes early. Try to schedule your massage so you are not rushing to get there, or having to hurry somewhere else immediately. Sometimes unexpected things happen that keep you from arriving as early as you want. If you come in just after racing out of work and fighting traffic, it will take longer for you to relax and put those things behind you.
Wear whatever you want for your massage. What you take off and leave on is your choice. You will be draped with a sheet the whole time, except for what I am working on. I really don’t think about what you do or don’t have on. It’s not an issue for me, so don’t let it be one for you.
Now that you are on the table, here are a few things you can do to make your experience better.
Breathe deeply. As we get busy, our breath can become shallow. Draw deep breaths that you can feel all the way into your abdomen. In just a minute, you will begin to feel more relaxed and peaceful.
Let go of the world. This is your chance to escape for a while. Turning off your brain can be difficult for some people, so concentrate on the moment. Feel your breathing. Focus on the feel of the strokes and stretches. Feel the warmth from the table warmer.
Allow yourself to go limp. I will move you around a little, and I will ask if I need some help from you. Some of the massage movements and stretches are more effective if you don’t try to help out.
Communicate during the massage when needed. I’ll adjust the pressure, temperature, and music to how you like it. They are easy changes to make.
Finally, a couple of more suggestions.
Get regular massages. I have noticed that the people who come in regularly have longer lasting effects than those who only come in on occasion. Also, work with the same massage therapist. The more you get to know each other, the more trust you will have in them and the better results you will enjoy.
When you get a massage, get a great one!
Barry is a licensed Massage Therapist at Main Street Massage in Hudson, Ohio. Find out more about him, his business, and massage at www.HudsonMassageTherapy.com
