What to Expect During a Massage Session.

The first thing you should know is that a massage session is about you-you do not have to comply with anything that makes you uncomfortable. It is important to speak up and request what you need at all times. I am here to serve your needs. This includes everything from the room temperature, lighting, music, amount of pressure used in the massage and any areas you would like worked on more or less!

When you arrive at the office you will be asked to fill out a short health questionnaire. I need to have a general idea of your overall health as there are some conditions that require special attention during a massage and a few will even restrict your ability to get a massage. I will also be ask if you are allergic to anything. The reason for asking that is that some of the oils and lotions may be allergens to some people. I will also ask what you expect to get out of the massage and what is your reason for seeking out massage and discuss any of your health concerns.

You will be taken into the massage room which is private you will need to take your clothes off to your level of comfort. You can also request to leave your clothes on to some degree if you feel more comfortable. You will be covered with a sheet or some other type of cover. I will also direct you how to lay on the table. Depending on the areas that are to be worked in a massage, you may start face up or face down on the table. I will leave the room while you undress and get on the table.

The massage is all about you. I will explain what I am going to be doing and set up a system for communicating your needs. One of the main things is the amount of pressure that is used in a massage session. Each person varies as to what pressure feels best to them. I should be able to work within your comfort level and also achieve results. It is your body and you can request more or less pressure at any time. Some go into a massage thinking the massage therapist must know best but it is you who know what is best for your body. While I can feel the various tension patterns and tight muscles, I have no way of knowing how they feel to you without you telling me.

Other things you can need to be aware of is the temperature of the room and things like the music or lighting. You can request what changes you need. Don't be afraid to speak up.

I can discuss with you what parts of your body you would like to have massaged or what they think may need work on to find a plan that works best with you.

During the massage it is best to just be still and feel my hands and feel your body but keeping in communication about your needs. If you feel a need to be talkative that may be a reflection of being nervous. Doing some deep breathing can help you relax. Of course with our busy lives today you may still be thinking about work or your partner and family. Getting those thoughts out of your mind and back to your body takes time and is a process of learning to become more aware of yourself which is really all part of the healing process. Talk if and when you need or you can also acknowledge your thoughts and practice letting go of them to relax more.

I usually use a lotion to lubricate the skin for working the muscles. You can ask for what ever you prefer. As I am working you can tell me what you are feeling and guide me to areas that need more attention. You can ask me to work more on an area at any time. While massage for the most part is thought of to be relaxing, it can be painful. The pain is a result of the tight muscles being worked on and is usually an indicator of how much tension is in your body. There is a certain level of pressure that is needed for the massage to be effective but at no time should you be in such pain or discomfort as to think you would never want to come back again. That is why it is important to establish a communication system with me and also understand your own needs.

Hopefully this information has been helpful in letting you know what to expect during a massage. If you still have questions feel free to call or email me through the contact form here. You can also check to see if I have any last minute openings each day through my Twitter Account.