A Massage Therapist Tells You What To Expect On Your First Visit

If you have already had the benefit of a massage, you know how relaxed and good it makes you feel when you are done. If you are relaxed before your session, you will help your massage therapist loosen your muscles even quicker. A steam bath, sauna, or time in a hot tub will help you relax and soften your muscles to make your massage moreeffective. Turn off your cell phone and try not to let worries or concerns enter your mind. 

When you arrive for your massage, you will be taken into a quiet room with dimmed lights. Sometimes there will be candles burning and a sweet aroma in the air. You will be asked to undress while the therapist leaves the room. Any jewelry that might interfere with the massage should be taken off. There will be a table specifically made for massage with an opening to place your face. You'll climb in between the sheets or towels as per your massage therapists instructions. The therapist will knock before entering the room to be sure you are undressed and covered properly. You will be properly covered with a sheet throughout your massage. Your therapist will only uncover the portion of your body they are working on. It's your choice whether you want to be completely undressed or leave on your underwear or panties. A massage therapist should never touch your breast or genital area. 

Take deep breaths while you are being massaged. Deep breathing techniques will help you relax during your massage and make it more effective. It's all right to talk to your therapist, but its fine if you want to just be quiet and relax. Try to keep your mind clear and focus the physcial sensations you are experinecing in your body. Your therapist will give you simple commands such as "turn", "lift your leg", or "take a deep breath."  If you have any questions, don't be afraid to ask your massage therapist. Tell them what you like or don't like.  If the pressure is too strong, let them know. They have no way to tell if their massage pressure is too much. A massage should be relaxing and not cause you more pain.

Your massage therapist may use oil or lotion. Only the parts of your body the therapist is working on will be exposed.  If you know you are allergic to a certain product, tell your therapist. They may ask you which oil or lotion you prefer and will ensure you do not have allegies to any of the natural oils. Your therapist will advise you to relax and enjoy your massage. Focus only on your massage; try to keep worries and concerns out of your mind.

Normally massage therapists will tell you which area they are going to work on next. If you have any sensitivity to that area or don't feel comfortable having certain areas massaged, tell your therapist. It may mean they will change their technique or skip that area. A massage also includes a scalp massage, but if you don't want your hair messed up mention it to the therapist so they will skip the scalp massage.

Your massage therapist will leave the room to allow you to dress in privacy. Take your time and get up slowly. You should rest for at least 30 seconds before you try to stand.