What Can You Expect?
Massage
If you have never had a massage before, you are in for a treat! I am a trained
therapist in therapeutic massage. Here are a few tips to prepare you for this
indulgence.
Communication
Let your therapist know it’s your first massage. S/he will take a moment to
explain the process, discuss any muscle tension or pain you’ve been experiencing
and answer any questions you have. Agree on a progression that allows time to
address any issues, for example, if you hold tension in your shoulders and jaw,
you may want to skip your legs. Or, you may want to relax with a full body
massage. Let your therapist know in advance.
Draping
Undress to your level of comfort. A sheet will be used to cover your body except
for the area being massaged. Though most clients choose to completely disrobe,
if you feel more comfortable wearing your underthings during your treatment,
that’s fine.
Pressure
Every body is different and no one knows what works best for you better than you
do. Help your therapist help you by communicating your comfort level with the
amount of pressure. Your body needs to be relaxed to respond to massage work. If
you are tensing up because the work is too deep, you will not fully benefit from
the work you are receiving. Feel free to speak up at any time.
Conversation
Allow yourself to focus on your body, breathe deeply and take in the wonderful
sensations of receiving a massage. While some people appreciate the quiet,
others find conversation helps them unwind. Your therapist has plenty to think
about when assessing and treating your muscles, so don’t feel as though you have
to chat, but if you wish to, you may.
If you have any as yet unanswered questions about what to expect from your
visit, feel free to call or email me. I am more than happy to answer them for
you.
How does massage work?
When a practitioner massages soft tissue, natural electrical signals are transmitted both to the local area and throughout the body. These signals help heal damaged muscle, stimulate circulation, clear waste products via the lymphatic system, boost the activity of the immune system, reduce pain and tension, and induce a calming effect. They may also enhance a general sense of well-being by stimulating the release of endorphins (natural painkillers and mood elevators) and reducing levels of certain stress hormones.