Your massage therapist will begin by asking you general health questions since there are some conditions for which massage is not appropriate These questions also help the massage therapist determine what areas to focus on and what will ensure the best results..
For a full body massage, most people undress completely except for underwear. Bras are not usually worn since the massage therapist cannot work on the sholder area when a bra is present. Your massage therapist will give you privacy to undress, and you are covered with a sheet except for the area being worked on at that moment.
For many techniques your massage therapist will use a lubricant, such as a light oil or lotion, which is hypoallergenic.This reduces friction on the skin so the massage is more relaxing.
A massage or bodywork session usually begins with relatively gentle pressure to calm your nervous system and begin releasing superficial tension. Gradually your therapist works more deeply to address specific areas.
Since a typical massage session involves lying on your stomach for at least 30 minutes, you should not eat a heavy meal for at least 2 hours prior to your massage session, but a light snack before is alright.
What should I do during a massage?
Make yourself comfortable. If your therapist wants you to adjust your position, he or she will either move you (for instance lift your arm) or will tell you what is needed. Swedish and deep tissue massages sometimes require the client's participation, such as turning their head a certain way, but the therapist will tell you when that is necessary. Otherwise, change your position anytime to make yourself more comfortable. Many people just close their eyes and relax completely, focusing on the soothing music that will be playing in the background, other people find it a great time to take a relaxing nap and wake up with no tension.
A good way to allow yourself to relax during a session is to take several slow, deep breaths. During each exhalation, allow yourself to relax more completely. Imagining your ideal, quiet place will also help you to relax, or focus on tension leaving your body with the strokes of the therapist.
How Will a Massage Feel?
Massage on healthy tissue feels good. Some people are surprised to find that a massage does not tickle. Your massage therapist uses gentle but firm pressure, gradually preparing you for deeper touch.
The saying "no pain, no gain" does not apply to massage and bodywork. The most effective massage works with the body's natural responses, not against them. Working in the area of an injury or chronic pain may at first cause some discomfort, which usually lessens in the first few minutes. Your massage therapist knows ways to minimize pain, and will work carefully within what feels right to you. Always tell your therapist if you feel any discomfort so she or he can adjust.