Are you thinking of getting a professional massage for the first time?
Are you unsure of what the proper procedure is for undressing for a massage? Maybe you’re worried that the massage will hurt or you’re hoping it will cure a backache you’ve had for years.
This is to help put you at ease before your first massage.
Here are a few frequently asked questions and answers about massage. So don’t fret and just relax that’s the whole point of getting a massage!
What type of massage should I get?
There are many different styles of massage. The most common is the Swedish massage, which is a whole-body therapeutic massage designed to relax the muscles and joints. Other popular types include deep tissue, shiatsu, hot stone, reflexology, and Thai massage. You may want to choose a specialty, like sports massage or prenatal massage if that suits your needs. If your unsure just share with us your concerns and what you would like to improve. We are happy to give you our recommendation!
When should I schedule a massage?
Think about your day’s schedule before you set up your massage. For example, don’t eat right before or exercise immediately after your massage. You’ll want to make sure you are well hydrated all day as well. We recommend that it’s best to just relax afterwards. However, Many athletes will get massages the day before and after a large event which can help loosen the muscles and help with performance.
Can massage help with a medical condition?
Massage has been shown to have a range of health benefits, from lowering blood pressure to easing migraines. Research has demonstrated that massage may help relieve pain for patients with cancer, HIV, and Parkinson’s Disease. Massage can also help lower stress, which is a good thing for your overall health.
If you have a serious medical condition, you should clear a massage with your doctor first.
Will I be naked?
You only need to take off only as much clothing as you’re comfortable removing. You can leave your undergarments on if you choose, as massage can be done through clothing. The massage therapist will give you privacy while you undress and leave the room. During the massage, the therapist will use a sheet or towel to drape the parts of your body that are not being massaged.
A Massage is meant to be relaxing and we want you to be comfortable at all times. Keep in mind while receiving a massage everything can be adjusted i.e.. lighting, music, temperature. Don’t be afraid to speak up and tell us what you would like to be changed. As massage therapists your comfort is important to us!
Is the massage going to hurt?
It shouldn’t hurt but you should keep the lines of communication open. If a therapist is pressing too deeply in an area you should tell them. You should never have to endure a massage. Sometimes correcting chronic injuries can be a little uncomfortable but it shouldn’t be painful. Massage should always leave you felling better than when you came in.
Should I talk during the massage?
It’s up to you. Some people like to remain quiet and listen to music during the massage. Others like to make light conversation. Tell your massage therapist your preference. Whether you like to talk or stay quiet, you should absolutely tell the massage therapist if you’re uncomfortable — if you’re too hot, too cold, or can’t stand the music.
What if I fall asleep?
You may get drowsy during the massage, so don’t worry if you fall asleep. If you fall asleep we know you are relaxed. It doesn’t bother us and we will wake you up to let you know when the massage has ended. You are welcome to take a few minutes to yourself to keep relaxing and soak it all in before getting dressed and continuing with your day.
How will I feel after the massage?
You should feel some relief after a massage. Sometimes you may experience 24-48 hours of soreness. But it should be a good kind of sore, like you just had a workout. After a massage, you should feel relaxed and mellow. That has to do with the changes in neurochemicals like serotonin and endorphins. But don’t expect that a one-time massage will solve a lifelong backache or other chronic pain. A lot of people expect to be cured in an hour an important question to ask yourself: “How long did it take to get this backache and how long have I had it?” For many things, such as a backache, it’s a cumulative effect and you may need several consecutive treatments. It can take time.
The effects of massage don’t last but neither do the effects of bathing. Which is why we recommend you do both often!
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