What Should I Expect for My First Massage?
Getting your first massage can be a nerve-wracking experience. This blog will discuss what to expect to help you feel more comfortable and prepared for your appointment.
Remember, if you have any questions or concerns about the session feel free to communicate with your therapist. It is important that they are aware of any discomfort you may be experiencing.
Pre-Appointment Check-In
Depending on the massage studio or clinic, you will be asked to fill out an intake form before your session begins. This helps your massage therapist understand your health status and what areas of your body to focus on during the treatment. This information is kept completely confidential.
Then you will be guided to your private massage room. You are encouraged to undress to your level of comfort and get comfortable on the table under a blanket. If you prefer not to undress, it is fine – your massage therapist will leave the room and cover you with a sheet during the duration of the massage.
During your massage, you may choose to talk or just relax and enjoy the music and aromatherapy. Your therapist will listen to you and offer suggestions, but the final decision is yours. If at any time you need more or less pressure, more or less music, or if you are uncomfortable with anything please communicate this to your therapist immediately.
Health Intake Form
After you check-in, your therapist will likely ask you to fill out an intake form that will typically ask about areas of pain or any injuries. This information will help your therapist create a customized treatment for you and will remain confidential.
Before your massage starts, your therapist will likely give you a brief tour of the facility and explain the process they follow during a massage. This will also include how they will protect your privacy with appropriate draping and how you should undress to the level of comfort that is right for you.
It is a good idea to drink plenty of water before and after your massage to keep your body well hydrated. This will help your circulation, flush irritating waste products and reduce the likelihood of soreness after your session. It will also help you feel more relaxed and calm after your session. It is important to communicate with your therapist during the massage if anything feels uncomfortable or painful, especially during deeper work.
Massage Session
Your massage therapist will leave the room to give you privacy to undress to your comfort level and get onto the table under the provided sheet. Many clients keep their underwear on but it is up to you.
During the session, make yourself comfortable and communicate with your massage therapist. They will either gently move you or tell you what to do (such as “lift your arm” or “turn over”). Some people like to talk during their massage but it is totally up to you.
Massage stimulates circulation and flushes out waste products from the muscles so you will probably feel some residual soreness after your session. It is recommended that you drink plenty of water after your massage to help with this process. Also, be careful not to schedule any strenuous activity right after your session and allow time for yourself to rest. This will maximize the benefits of your massage and allow your body to recover from its work.
Post-Massage Care
Many people report that they feel sore after their first massage. The good news is that this is usually a good soreness, caused by healing and releasing tight muscles. It is important to drink water both before and after a massage to stay hydrated and aid in flushing out the toxins from your body.
After your massage, relax and enjoy some quiet time for yourself. If you prefer to watch TV, stretch out on the sofa or read a book that is fine, but please don't do anything that will make your muscles contract and tighten up again.
After a massage it is also recommended that you avoid intense exercise for a few hours. This will give your body a chance to rest and recover from the work of your massage therapist and avoid disrupting your newfound sense of relaxation and calmness. However, it is always recommended to do some light stretching to keep your muscles limber and flexible.
Getting your first massage can be a nerve-wracking experience. This blog will discuss what to expect to help you feel more comfortable and prepared for your appointment. Remember, if you have any questions or concerns about the session feel free to communicate with your therapist. It is important that they are aware of any discomfort…