First Massage

Whether you are searching for stress relief massage or some of the other healthy massage therapy benefits, relaxation during your massage is a must.

This is basically what occurs after you walk in the front door.

2. He/She will discuss if you are needing stress relief massage or specific areas (such as low back) worked or what type of massage you are interested in receiving. You can learn more about massage techniques here.

3. He/She should discuss your specific problem areas and how massage can help, as well as the amount of pressure that should be used in the treatment.

But, what actually happens in the massage session?

Almost immediately after you step in to a massage room, your body begins preparing to "unwind".

After discussing the session with your therapist, he or she will leave the room. You will lie on a massage table with fresh, clean sheets, and get drawn in to peaceful massage music.

You will deeply breathe in relaxing aromas like lavender or eucalyptus.

You will quickly realize you are in a safe environment, and the healing begins...even before the massage therapist enters the room!

Here are a few questions that new clients typically have about their first massage:

Do I undress completely?

Most massage therapists tell their clients to "undress to your comfort level". However, massage is usually given with the client completely undressed or with underpants only.

Do I undress with the therapist in the room?

No. The therapist should leave the room while you undress.

Most often, he or she will tell you where you put your clothes, how to get onto the massage table, how you should be under the sheet and/or blanket, how you will be draped at all times, and then he/she will give you a few minutes to undress before returning to start the massage.

There should never be any form of inappropriate behavior in a massage session, on the part of the client or the therapist.

Will the therapist use oil or lotion?

Some use oil, some use lotion or cream-it is really the therapists' choice. If you are receiving hot stone massage, it will usually be oil or gel (which is like an oil/lotion mixture). Read more about different massage oils and their benefits.

Will the massage hurt?

If you are receiving a relaxation massage, it should not hurt. However, everyone is different. Verbalize anything that makes you feel uncomfortable.

Yes, usually there is a brief intake form to fill out. It will give your massage therapist information that will help him/her in your massage treatment.

Basically, it is questions about your medical history, medications, and if you have had massage before. Most often, there is a section which states that you understand the purpose of your massage treatment.

Remember to tell the therapist if anything hurts or is uncomfortable. Make sure you point out major health conditions like high blood pressure, current or previous cancer treatment, and any skin conditions that you may have.

It should never be a stressful experience.

Go to your first massage session with the anticipation of true relaxation!

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