A relaxing massage therapy session is part client and part practitioner. The massage therapist uses skilled techniques to help muscles and tissues relax. The client of massage can use simple steps and guidelines to ensure a relaxing experience and help the benefits last longer.
First time and seasoned clients alike can benefit from these suggestions to prepare for, experience, and take care after, a massage.
Preparing for a Massage Appointment
Prior to your therapeutic massage appointment follow these steps to ensure a relaxing experience:
- Get plenty of fluids in the 24 hours leading up to your massage
- Shaving the same day of a massage can lead to razor burn or a rash; avoid shaving legs prior to a massage
- Shower the same day of the massage or as close to the appointment as possible – if you have been working out of doors or exercising the sweat and dirt can become mixed in with massage oils and creams and make for an exfoliating or gritty experience
- Plan to arrive a few minutes early to complete any paperwork and to avoid traffic or parking issues
- Disclose any health conditions and allergies to the massage therapist before your session
What to do During the Massage
For some clients receiving a massage is such a relaxing experience that they will fall asleep within minutes. Others have a harder time winding down for their massage. There is no right or wrong way to enjoy a massage but here are some suggestions to relax during your session:
- Try following your breathing for a few minutes: breathe in, breathe out
- Focus on listening to the music playing
- Use meditation to enhance the relaxation of the massage
- Don’t force relaxation – if you are in a talkative mood and your mind won’t slow down feel free to chat during your massage. You may actually relax more if you “go with the flow” and talk through your day and things on your mind than keeping quiet
Be sure to communicate clearly with your massage practitioner during the session on comfort level, room temperature and music. You don't need to "endure" a massage experience that is unpleasant so speak up if the pressure is too deep, the table is too warm or if the music is distracting.
Taking Care of Yourself after a Massage
To help the benefits of your massage last longer try these guidelines:
- Be sure to have adequate water intake after your massage
- Practice any homework or instructions your practitioner has given you to keep up the benefits between sessions (i.e. stretches, relaxation methods or posture awareness)
- Take things easy for a couple of hours after your massage to enjoy longer benefits
- Try taking a relaxing bath or foot bath a day or two after your massage to keep the relaxation going
- Ask your practitioner for some self-massage tips for common tension areas
- Maintain regular massage or bodywork appointments to keep stress and tight muscles at manageable levels
Amy Kreydin - Amy Kreydin, NBCRT, CCAP, BD is a Board Certified Reflexologist and Clinical Aromatherapist.
Join the Conversation