What
Expect At Your Massage Session
If you
haven’t had the experience with massage therapy, you
might be wondering what to expect.
This article will give you some ideas about what
takes place during a “typical” massage session.
If
it’s your first time seeing me I will likely ask you
some questions.
I might ask about the reasons you are
getting a massage, current physical condition, medical
history, life style and stress level, experiences with
specific areas of pain, and whether there is any
specific need you want addressed during the massage.
First and foremost, I need to make sure there are
not any conditions present that would rule out having a
massage because of underlying health issues.
Second, I need to know what your needs are
regarding massage, and be sure of your expectations and
goals for your session. Third, the information you provide will help me determine
what techniques to use and how to structure your
session.
Next,
you will be asked to remove your clothing.
I will leave the room to provide privacy while
you undress. You
should take off only as much as you are comfortable
removing. You should also remove any jewelry or other
articles that may interfere with your massage.
A sheet will always be used to provide draping
during your massage.
I will only uncover the part of the body that is
being massaged at that particular time and I insure you
that your modesty will be respected at all times.
The draping also keeps you warm while receiving
your massage.
The
massage takes place on a comfortable, padded table.
I will let you know what position to lie on the
table. The
table may have some extra attachments or cushions, such
as a face rest (which allows you to lie in a face down
position without turning your head and neck).
If you don’t like using these attachments
please let me know and I will remove it or not use it.
Expect
a peaceful and comfortable environment for your massage.
I will play some music that is specially composed
to facilitate a relaxing effect on your mind.
If for some reason you find it distracting please
let me know and I will either turn it off or replace it
with another music selection.
Before
the massage begins, I may offer some advice that may
improve the quality of your massage.
A common one is to breath, especially if a
sensitive area is being massaged.
I will
use either a massage lotion or oil, which reduces the
drag on your skin while performing the massage. If you are allergic to any types of oils or lotions be sure
to tell me about them before the
session starts so that I can be sure that they do
not exist in the oils or lotions that I am using.
Depending
on your needs I will massage either the full body or
specific areas that need attention.
For example, general relaxation massage or stress
reduction sessions usually include all major areas of
the body, while a session for a localized injury, pain,
or tightness will be focused to a specific area.
It is possible to spend most of an entire session
on one area of the body.
Remember if there is anything that makes you fell
uncomfortable about, you have the right to tell me to
stop.
After
the massage is finished you will have privacy to get
dressed. Please
get off the table slowly.
If there is time to do so, you ask me about any
questions that you may have.
The usual length of my massages is 1 to 1 ½
hour.
Please
let me know at least 24 hours in advance if you need to
reschedule or cancel any appointments.
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