RedWine
02-01-2006, 06:15 AM
Massage has been touted as a panacea for health conditions ranging from migraines to ulcers. Although the scientific proof is sparse, everyone will agree that a massage at the very least feels good. Follow these steps for the best possible experience.
Steps:
1. Avoid eating close to the time of your massage.
2. Relax before your massage. Give yourself plenty of time to get to your massage appointment.
3. Wear clothing that you can get out of easily. If you plan to keep your clothes on, wear something like loose shorts and a jog bra for a woman or boxers for a man; these options will be easy for the massage therapist to work around.
4. Tell the therapist if you have any health concerns or have had any injuries.
5. Let the therapist know if there is any area where you do not wish to be touched, or if there is an area where you would like special work done.
6. Clear your thoughts. A massage is a time to relax, not to worry about the interview tomorrow or your car payments.
7. Breathe normally. Don't hold your breath if a sensitive spot is being worked on.
8. Try not to contract your muscles. Your body needs to be relaxed and flexible to get the best results. Imagine you are a rag doll.
9. Report any discomfort or problems during the massage. Tell the therapist if you feel any pain, are cold, don't like the music, etc.
10. Rise slowly after the massage is over. Get off the table gradually. Take your time, and try to maintain your state of relaxation.
11. Avoid driving if you are feeling spaced out or lightheaded. Wait a few minutes to get grounded.
Tips:
If you're having a professional massage, make sure you use a certified, trained therapist.
If you prefer a massage therapist of a certain sex, remember to make your request when you make your appointment.
Leave on some clothing if you are uncomfortable being totally nude. The key is for you to be comfortable.
My experience
what I do to prepare and ease my body before and after is this:
-make sure you are neither hungry or thanksgiving day full when you arrive for your appointment, I usually have a SlimFast or similar diet drink that won't leave you hungry.
-if you find it hard to relax I just think of CLAY and how I pound it in my hands. Your body should be like clay to your massager, just relax and breathe deeply.
-Do not wear perfume or any strong scents. Do bathe.
-Upon returning home if you drive, tune in to some cool relaxing slow music similar to what played at your massage session. Don't try to jolt your mind back to reality.
-beware of those who only want to work on your butt instead of your back. They are only wasting your time and money.
-eat a light meal immediately after.
-its o.k to fall asleep, but if you talk or are usually otherwise vulgar, do warn your massager.
Steps:
1. Avoid eating close to the time of your massage.
2. Relax before your massage. Give yourself plenty of time to get to your massage appointment.
3. Wear clothing that you can get out of easily. If you plan to keep your clothes on, wear something like loose shorts and a jog bra for a woman or boxers for a man; these options will be easy for the massage therapist to work around.
4. Tell the therapist if you have any health concerns or have had any injuries.
5. Let the therapist know if there is any area where you do not wish to be touched, or if there is an area where you would like special work done.
6. Clear your thoughts. A massage is a time to relax, not to worry about the interview tomorrow or your car payments.
7. Breathe normally. Don't hold your breath if a sensitive spot is being worked on.
8. Try not to contract your muscles. Your body needs to be relaxed and flexible to get the best results. Imagine you are a rag doll.
9. Report any discomfort or problems during the massage. Tell the therapist if you feel any pain, are cold, don't like the music, etc.
10. Rise slowly after the massage is over. Get off the table gradually. Take your time, and try to maintain your state of relaxation.
11. Avoid driving if you are feeling spaced out or lightheaded. Wait a few minutes to get grounded.
Tips:
If you're having a professional massage, make sure you use a certified, trained therapist.
If you prefer a massage therapist of a certain sex, remember to make your request when you make your appointment.
Leave on some clothing if you are uncomfortable being totally nude. The key is for you to be comfortable.
My experience
what I do to prepare and ease my body before and after is this:
-make sure you are neither hungry or thanksgiving day full when you arrive for your appointment, I usually have a SlimFast or similar diet drink that won't leave you hungry.
-if you find it hard to relax I just think of CLAY and how I pound it in my hands. Your body should be like clay to your massager, just relax and breathe deeply.
-Do not wear perfume or any strong scents. Do bathe.
-Upon returning home if you drive, tune in to some cool relaxing slow music similar to what played at your massage session. Don't try to jolt your mind back to reality.
-beware of those who only want to work on your butt instead of your back. They are only wasting your time and money.
-eat a light meal immediately after.
-its o.k to fall asleep, but if you talk or are usually otherwise vulgar, do warn your massager.