Who will
give my massage?
A massage therapist with many hours of
training, often in several types of massage. In addition, massage
therapists have a basic competence in anatomy and physiology and
knowledge of when massage is not appropriate.
What kind of massages can I get?
Swedish massage utilizing long light strokes,
deep kneading, small friction-type motions, light tapping, and movement
of the joints. The list of other specialized techniques is long. Ask
your massage therapist to explain any other techniques he or she uses.
What is the first appointment like?
Your massage therapist will begin by asking
some general health questions since there are some conditions for which
massage is not appropriate. Your massage therapist will then leave the
room while you undress and relax onto the table, covering yourself with
a fresh sheet.
Your massage will take place on a table
especially designed for stability and comfort. Your massage therapist
may offer cushions or adjustable face rest for support. The room will be
warm and quiet, often with soft music to set a relaxing mood.
For a full body massage, most people undress
completed, though you may choose to wear underwear. However, the
therapist will ensure that your warmly draped at all times, except the
area that he/she is working on.
Your massage therapist
will usually use a lubricant, such as a light oil or lotion, which is
good for your skin and absorbs well. For some kinds of massage, no oil
is used and you remain clothed.
A massage usually begins with a light steady
touch, followed by broad, flowing strokes. This start calming your
nervous system and releasing tension in your superficial muscles.
Gradually, as your body becomes ready, your massage therapist works more
deeply to relax specific areas.
What should I do in a massage?
Make yourself comfortable. If your massage
therapist wants you to adjust your position, he or she either will move
you (for instance lift your arm) or will advise of any other movement.
Otherwise, change your position anytime to make yourself more
comfortable.
Many people just close their eyes and relax
completely during a massage. Others prefer to talk. It is your massage,
and whatever feels natural to you is certainly the best way to relax. Do
not hesitate to ask questions about what your massage therapist is doing
or about massage in general. The desire to sigh or take a deep breath is
a sign that you are relaxing. In fact, deep natural breathes can
actually help you relax.
Will the massage hurt?
Massage on health tissue feels good, and the
saying "no pain, "no gain" is not true for massage. The most effective
and the deepest massage works with the body's natural responses, rather
than against them. Always tell your massage therapist if you feel any
discomfort so she or he can adjust to a more appropriate level.
Massage used to address a painful injury may
first cause some discomfort, which usually lessens noticeably in the
first few minutes. Your massage therapist will know how to minimize
pain, and will work carefully.
Will the massage tickle?
Ticklish people are often surprised that
massage does not tickle. The touch in a massage is completely different
from tickling. The intent is relaxation, the pressure gentle but firm.
In addition, you massage therapist chooses strokes that gradually
accustom you to the touch involved.
If you are extremely ticklish, tell your
therapist so he or she can work carefully or avoid your areas of
sensitivity altogether.
How long is the massage?
An hour is a common length for a massage. This
is enough time for a deeply relaxing full body massage, or more in-depth
work on a particular area, for instance bank, neck and shoulders.
A half-hour can be an excellent introduction
to massage, with plenty of time for a partial massage, such as back,
neck and shoulders or legs and feet. One and half-hours is enough time
for a fully body massage along with special attention to a problem area.
What do I do after a massage?
When your massage is finished, your massage
therapist will leave the room while you dress. Be aware that massage can
be profoundly relaxing, and it affects all of your body's systems. Give
yourself a moment to reorient before slowly getting up from the table.
How will I fell after a massage?
After a massage, most people feel very
relaxed. Many experience freedom from aches and pains that have built up
from months of tension or repetitive activity in their daily life. After
an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience an
increase in energy that can last for several days.
Sometimes the immediate effects of your
massage may seem mild. Watch for further change over the following days,
such as pain relief, increased mobility, or reduced stress.
How do I find out more?
You may still have questions after reading
these Q & A questions. It is your body and you are right to be careful.
Any massage therapist will be happy to discuss questions over the phone
or in person before you book an
appointment. Finally, when you are ready, the best answers will come
from experiencing a massage first hand. Enjoy in good health!
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