GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR MASSAGE: TIPS FOR YOUR FIRST TIME
Getting a massage for the first time can be both exciting and a little nerve-racking. Not knowing what to expect for your first time is a totally normal experience; even your therapist was in your shoes once! We’ll go over a few simple tips to get the most out of your massage experience so you can come in with excitement and leave feeling rejuvenated.
Silence Your Phone & Other Distractions
Turn your phone on silent or airplane mode. Your massage time is meant to be a break from daily stress and to reconnect with your body. Constant notifications or vibrations can pull you out of your relaxation state that the therapist is working to create. Giving yourself permission to disconnect will help you stay present for your experience.
Remove All Jewelry & Accessories
Jewelry, watches, or hair accessories can interfere with massage techniques and limit your therapist’s ability to work certain areas efficiently. Removing these items beforehand allows the therapist to have smoother movements and flow. It also protects your belongings from oil or lotions used during the massage.
Undress to Your Comfort Level
You should only undress as much as what feels right to you. Your comfort comes first, and you are in control. Professional therapists are trained in proper draping techniques to ensure you remain comfortable and covered at all times, exposing only the area they are working on. Clothing acts as a natural boundary; therapists are trained to work on body parts that are accessible and never under clothing. Sensitive areas are never uncovered; your privacy will always be respected.
Communicate Your Goals With Your Therapist
Our therapists are trained in a wide range of techniques. Each modality comes with its own therapeutic benefits. Whether you’re looking to relax and unwind, or deep pressure to get into those “knots,” being open about your goals will let the therapist know which techniques to use and make your session as effective as possible. Massage is a collaborative process between clients and therapists.
Take Deep Breaths
Breathing deeply activates the body’s parasympathetic nervous system. This system is in charge of promoting relaxation in the body, “rest and digest,” if you will. This natural response will slow your heart rate, lower stress hormones, and allow muscles to relax more easily. Clients will unconsciously hold their breath during moments of deep pressure, which creates tension and resistance in the body. Maintaining slow and steady breathing will keep the body in its relaxed state and leave you feeling better long after your session ends.
Feel Free to Converse or Enjoy the Quiet
Some clients enjoy light conversation; some prefer silence to fully unwind. There’s no right or wrong approach. Speaking during your session can help the therapist adjust in real time, such as pressure or specific areas. However, remaining quiet can help deepen your sense of relaxation and mindfulness. Your session is designed to support your well-being, so choose the atmosphere that helps you relax the most.
Ready for Your First Massage?
From prepping your mind-body to communicating with your therapist, every step contributes to maximizing your time on the table. Following these tips and trusting the expertise of your therapists will have you leaving each session better than when you came in and wanting to come back for more.
And remember, there are just a few days left for our October Special - 20% off Massage code until October 31st! Code: Save
Book now. Relax later.