Answers To Your Questions About Your First Massage
Going in for your first massage can be a little bit disconcerting if you aren't sure what to expect. You may have some preconceived notions about what the experience will be like. It's important to understand that massage clinics vary greatly, from those that are candle lit and spa-like to those that are a more sterile medical setting. The following guide can answer some of your questions so that you can get the most out of your first massage.
Is there anything that you should tell the massage therapist ahead of time?
Most massages will begin with a short chat where you will go over your lifestyle, needs, and any contraindications to massage. Tell the therapist where you are feeling soreness or stiffness, along with any activities you do. This can include sports, exercise, daily job duties, or even if you spend most of your day hunched over a computer. Finally, let the massage therapist know of any conditions that could be contraindicative to massage. If you have a current injury, arthritis, or are pregnant, for example, the therapist will need to adjust their massage style around these conditions.
Will you have to get naked for the massage?
Generally, no. You only need to take off the amount of clothing in which you feel comfortable, and you are given privacy as you undress. Common expectations are to strip down to your underclothing. You will be given a privacy sheet to cover your body on the table, and the therapist will only move the sheet as needed to reveal the part of the body they are working on.
What kind of oil does the therapist use?
Types of massage oils and lotions vary, depending on the preferences of the therapist. Some therapists may provide a choice of oils or scents to choose from. If you are scent-sensitive or have any allergies to common ingredients found in lotions or oils, let the therapist know ahead of time. They will find a hypoallergenic version to use on you, or they may recommend a chair massage, which doesn't use oil.
Do you have to do anything during massage?
Your main job is to lay down and to breath normally. The massage therapist will give you some instructions, such as when to turn over or when to move a limb. The massage therapist should be doing most of the work, but you do want to make sure you are working with them. This means that if the therapist lifts your arm to position it, don't stiffen your muscles so that the arm is hard to move.
For more information or to schedule your first session, contact a clinic such as BalanCenter..