Tips on How to Prepare for Massage
Before the Massage:
When preparing for your massage think about what sort of goals you have in mind (why did you want the massage in the first place) - Specfic areas of pain? Relieve stress? Preparing for an event? Everyone has various reasons that massage therapy is used so establish a goal for this specific session.
CONTRAINDICATIONS: There are a few medical conditions that are not compatible with massage - serious cardiac conditions and blood clots; first trimester of pregnancy, skin disease, wounds, or tumors; cancer and tuberculosis; fever, and fractures or dislocations. Please let your therapist know before scheuding if you have any changes to your medical history.
Please remove all jewlery.
Undress to your comfort level and start face up or down (depending on therapists instructions) under the sheet. Full sheet drapping will be provided so that only the area being worked on will be exposed leaving you completely covered and secure.
During the Massage:
Be sure to notify your therapist at any time if you need anything; such as, lighter touch or deeper work, if for any reason the music is too loud or soft or you'd like me to move on to the next song, if you are cold or too warm, or if need bolsters or face cradle adjusted. It is important that you are comfortable and relaxed in order to get the most benefits from your massage - and in NO way is it an inconvience to adjust these things for you!
Focus on your breathing. Slow and deep breaths will help to reduce tension and it will assist in the flow of blood and oxygen to restricted muscle tissue. Some people have a tendency to hold their bodies stiff because they have a hard time relaxing or they feel uncomfortable having that particular body part being treated with massage. If you do not want a specific part of your body massaged, just let your therapist know. Remember this massage is about YOU. Feel free to ask questions at any point, but in no way do you need to feel obligated to carry on a conversation. Most clients prefer slience because it helps them relax and leaves a therapist to focus on their work- You.
Sometimes clients fall asleep during a massage. This shows that the body has reached a deeper state of relaxation. The therapist will gently wake you when it's time to turn over or at the end of the massage.
After The Massage:
Do not rush up from the table because dizziness could occur. Slowly adjust to your surroundings as you get up from the table and get dressed. .
Hydrate after your massage session with plenty of water. Half of your body weight in ounces is recommended on a daily basis. (If you weigh 160, drink 80 ounces). Stretching is helpful in maintaining the increased flexibility that you will experience after your massage. To further prevent soreness with a bath in epsom salt, baking soda, and sea salt (about 1 cup of each) or a bath in apple cider vinegar (approx. 1 pint). This will assist the body in removing toxins and any physical soreness that resides after the treatment.
Tipping is optional – not expected but always appreciated.