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What can I expect from my massage? If you have never received a massage from a professional Massage Therapist, you probably have some questions and perhaps some concerns. It is my hope that this information will answer some of the questions that you may have.
What should I wear to the session? You may want to wear something comfortable and easy to remove. Also be sure that the clothing that you wear is something that you won't mind getting oil on. Although I personally use a non staining, non greasy massage cream, some Therapist will use oils and lotions that may stain your clothing. It is also a good idea to leave off the makeup. It will only smudge and wipe off. Remember, you are not going to be evaluated on your appearance. You are going for a massage. No need to impress. It is also a good idea to leave jewelry at home.
What to expect when you arrive. Please try to arrive a few minutes early for your first massage. You will be asked to fill out an intake form. Usually this is a short form asking for general health information. Please be thorough and truthful when filling out the information. This information is very important for your Therapist to know in order to be sure to give you the correct type of massage treatment as well as treatments to avoid in the event of certain health needs. This information is always kept confidential unless consent is given by you for it to be shared with another health care professional if necessary. Once your Therapist has this information, he or she will spend time going over it with you to be sure they have a clear understanding of your specific needs. They will ask you about areas that you may be experiencing pain, discomfort, tightness etc. to get a better idea of how to proceed. They will also want to know if you have any areas that are ticklish, sensitive or that you may not feel comfortable having them massage. Remember, this is your time, your body and you are paying for a service. Be clear and precise about what you do and do not want from your massage experience. You should also feel free to tell your Therapist if anything is not comfortable for you during your massage. The better able you are to communicate your needs, the more satisfied you will be with your Massage session.
What clothing will I need to remove? Some people feel uncomfortable and may even avoid getting a massage simply because they have questions or concerns about just how much clothing to remove. In my practice, I tell my clients to undress according to their own level of comfort. It is best to remove your bra, any jewelry and of course your shirt and slacks. I then leave the issue of underpants up to the individual. I explain that I will not uncover any private areas but if they feel more comfortable leaving on their underpants that is fine. My main objective as your Therapist is your comfort.
What will it feel like? A massage should feel good to you. What feels "good" is different for each individual. Everyone has their own tolerance for pain. What feels right for you is something only you can decide. That being said, communication with your Therapist during the massage is crucial. If the pressure being used is in any way uncomfortable to you, it is important to let the Therapist know. A well trained Therapist will listen to what you are saying and either guide you through some breathing techniques to help you with the deeper pressure, ease the pressure or increase the pressure to suit what feels right to you.
What should I expect after my massage? After your massage your therapist will allow you whatever time you need to get off the table and dress. Take your time. A massage may make you feel sleepy and even a bit light headed at first. Be sure to rise slowly from the table and allow your body time to assimilate this wonderful experience. Once you are dressed you may be invited to have a seat and drink some water. Make sure that you feel alert before leaving, especially if you will be driving yourself. Water is the most important thing to remember after a massage session. This is because Massage increases the body's circulation and this in turn will increase the rate at which natural toxins and waste are moving through your blood stream. Water will aide your body in ridding itself of these substances. Your Therapist will advise you if any additional follow-up is needed.
How often should I have a massage? This question is one that usually is answered differently by each Therapist. It depends on the reasons that you have for getting massage. If you simply want to add Massage Therapy to your preventative healthcare plan, once a month may be just right for you. If your Therapist is working with you to treat a specific problem, you may need to come as often as once or twice a week at first. If you have been receiving frequent massage for a specific need, you may be closer to a maintenance schedule of perhaps every two weeks. There simply is not one answer that is right for everyone. It is best to discuss your personal massage schedule with your therapist. Together you will create your ideal massage care plan.
Please note: Services are therapeutic in nature and Non-Sexual. Please do not call if you are searching for any other type of massage
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