Unwind and Relax: Your Ultimate Guide to Getting Your First Massage

Tips and Techniques to Maximize Your Massage Experience for Beginners

Are you getting ready for your first massage appointment and feeling a bit nervous? No worries, we're here to help! We've got some helpful tips to make your experience more enjoyable and relaxing.

But...... I don't like people touching me.

Often we receive referrals from satisfied clients who recommend our massage services to their family and friends. Some have never experienced a professional massage and may express concerns about receiving one because they dislike physical touch from strangers and don't know what to expect. While it is true that you will be touched during your massage, it is important to remember that the intention behind therapeutic touch is different. Skilled massage therapists are trained to establish effective communication and target specific muscles providing purposeful treatment. This makes the experience less awkward and way more relaxing!

When You First Arrive

Make sure to arrive at your first massage appointment 10 minutes early. This will give you enough time to fill out any necessary paperwork. Don't worry; it's just a quick review of your health history. Your massage session starts and ends within your booked time, so make sure you are not late. It's important to let your massage therapist know if you have any health conditions or are taking any medications that could affect the massage.

Massage therapy techniques are known to affect the central nervous system, circulatory, muscular and lymphatic. However, research shows massage therapy can influence any of the body's systems. 

If you've recently had surgery, are on blood thinners, have a cancer diagnosis, or are pregnant, your massage therapist will make sure to assess and create a customized treatment plan that is safe and effective. Massage therapists are knowledgeable and trained to treat several health conditions. They may modify, avoid recently injured areas, or defer treatment sessions so you can enjoy a safe and relaxing massage experience every time. 

What to Wear

One of the most common questions people ask before getting their first massage is what they should wear. It is of utmost importance you feel comfortable during your massage. During your consultation, the massage therapist will tell you to undress to your comfort level. Typically, massage clients choose to keep undergarments on during the session. However, if you feel more comfortable wearing more clothing, that's fine. Your massage therapist will ensure you are properly draped with linens during the session, with only the area being treated exposed.

It's important to note that your massage therapist will leave the room to give you privacy before you undress. This ensures a professional and comfortable experience during your massage. 

What to Expect

During your massage, the therapist will utilize a variety of techniques and tools to address your tissues. To facilitate a smooth and comfortable experience, massage therapists often employ oils and lotions on the skin to aid in gliding motions. Additionally, they may incorporate hot towels, ice packs, and essential oils to enhance the effects of the treatment. Our massage therapists specialize in various techniques, including Swedish massage, cupping therapy, and deep tissue massage. So, expect to feel refreshed, relaxed, and restored to wellness by the end of your visit!

During the Massage

Massage treatments are customized for each particular session. Your massage therapist may ask you to lay face down or face up under the table linens to begin the massage. You may be asked to turn over halfway through, as the therapist will hold the blankets to cover you as you turn. 

Your massage therapist may ask you to do some breathing exercises to help relax muscles. Some techniques may make muscles twitch or have some temporary referral pain when releasing. As you begin to relax, it is common to fall asleep, experience sinus drainage, watery eyes, or sometimes feel like laughing or crying. 

It's essential to communicate with the therapist throughout your session, as this will help them to tailor the massage to your needs and preferences. Your massage therapist will try to achieve your expectations and goals by the end of the session. Be bold and speak up if you have concerns or questions, want more or less pressure, or focus somewhere specific. Remember, you are in control at all times. If you become uncomfortable or wish to end the session early, let the massage therapist know immediately.  

After the Massage

After your massage, you may feel a bit sore or tender, primarily if the therapist has worked on any areas of your body that are particularly tight or tense. This is entirely normal and should subside within a day or two. Be sure to drink lots of water and rest, as well, to facilitate healing.

Getting your first massage is scary, but once you let our trusted massage therapist help you learn the ins and outs, you'll regret not booking sooner. Communication with the therapist throughout your session helps make sure the experience is enjoyable and beneficial. So why not book your first massage today and give yourself the gift of restored health and relaxation?"