2. Where will my massage session take place?
Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a warm, comfortable,
quiet room. Soft music may be played to help you relax. You will
lie on a table especially designed for your comfort.
3. What do I wear during the massage?
Depending on the primary technique your therapist uses, you may
or may not need to undress. For a full body massage you may undress
to your comfort level. While working directly on the skin is preferable,
over the clothes massage is also benefitial. Your massage therapist
will give you privacy to undress, and you will be covered with
a sheet and blanket at all times except the area being worked on.
4. What do I do during a massage therapy treatment?
Make yourself comfortable. If your therapist wants you to adjust
your position, she or he will either move you or will ask you
to move what is needed. Otherwise, change your position anytime
to make yourself more comfortable. Many people close their eyes
and relax completely during a session; others prefer to talk.
It's up to you. It is your massage, and whatever feels natural
to you is the best way to relax. Do not hesitate to ask questions
at any time.
5. How will a massage feel?
It usually depends on the techniques used. Many massage therapists
use a form of Swedish massage, which is often a baseline for practitioners.
In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with broad,
flowing strokes (effleurage) that will help calm your nervous
system and relax exterior muscle tension. As your body becomes
more relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to target specific
areas and relieve areas of muscular tension. Often, a light oil
or lotion is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without
causing excessive friction to the skin. Do not hesitate to ask
questions or mention if you feel any discomfort so that the massage
therapist can use another approach or technique.
6. Will the massage oils used make me break-out?
Most massage therapists use hypoallergenic massage oils or lotions.
However, if you have a sensitivity or allergy to certain types
of oils or lotion please bring it to the massage therapist's attention
as most practitioners have an assortment of oils and lotions on
hand.
7. How long will a massage treatment last?
The average full-body massage treatment lasts approximately one
hour. A half-hour appointment only allows time for a partial massage
session, such as neck and shoulders, back or legs and feet. Many
people prefer a 60- to 90-minute session for optimal relaxation.
Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session.
8. How will I feel after the massage therapy treatment?
Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience freedom from long-term
aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity.
After an initial period of feeling docile, people often experience
increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity
which can last for days. Since toxins are released from your soft
tissues during a massage, it is recommended you drink plenty of
water following your massage. Massage therapists sometimes recommend
a hot Epsom salt bath that encourages the release of toxins that
may have been stirred up from the massage treatment.
