First Massage? What Should You Expect?

Are you a little nervous about having a massage? You’re not
alone Many people are concerned about what happens during a
massage Questions like, Will I have to undress? Do I have to
talk? What if I feel uncomfortable? and other questions are
common Here are some answers and suggestions for making your
first massage a wonderful experience:
WHAT WILL I BE ASKED?
The massage therapist is likely to ask you about your health;
what problems you are looking to treat as well as any conditions
that may make certain techniques unsuitable or even unsafe
Along with health related questions you will also be asked about
your preference for comfort The massage should not make you
feel over exposed or uncomfortable Your massage therapist may
also ask you about your preference for scented oils or other
options
While questioning you about your health the massage therapist
should also explain the procedure he or she will be using They
should ask you about your sensitivity to determine how deep the
massage should be If you are treating a sore area you may find
the massage slightly uncomfortable but otherwise you should not
feel pain or discomfort during the massage
WILL I HAVE TO UNDRESS?
Exposing the area of your body that is being treated will help
the therapist to work more efficiently, however, it is not
mandatory to undress While it is preferable to drape the areas
not requiring exposure with a sheet it is possible for the
therapist to work on you while you are fully dressed If you do
not feel comfortable without clothing be sure to opt for
clothing that is not tight or restrictive as it will interfere
with the treatment
Your massage therapist will give you privacy to undress and
provide you sheet or towel to drape over you, both for warmth
and privacy Only the areas worked on will be exposed
WHAT WILL I HAVE TO DO?
For a typical Swedish massage you will be asked to lie down on a
special massage table This padded table may also have various
bolsters to make your position more comfortable The therapist
may ask you to move into a new position for better accessibility
to the treated area
If you are uncomfortable at any time you should tell your
massage therapist so you can shift your position or use bolsters
to make your position more comfortable
WHAT WILL THE MASSAGE THERAPIST DO?
Depending on where the massage is being performed and the amount
of time available the therapist may dim the lights, play soft
music and even light candles
Oil is often applied to reduce the friction of the massage and
you may be asked for your preference of scent The massage
therapist should help you remove the oil before putting your
clothes back on so they do not stain
If you prefer not to talk during your massage you should mention
that to the therapist They will still need to ask you to shift
from time to time or ask if the procedure is comfortable but you
do not have to converse if you prefer not to
A good massage therapist should make you feel comfortable enough
to ask any questions you have about the procedure and respect
your privacy and level of comfort while treating you Ask for
recommendations and meet with the therapist to discuss their
methods before booking your appointment

Tags | health, massage, oils, preference, result, swedish, table, therapist, undress, warmth