Here are a few “SECRETS” to help you feel at ease and to gain the greatest benefit from your massage therapy session.
• Be sure to tell the therapist about any areas of your body which are injured, tense or sore. Also mention any medical conditions, such as high blood
pressure, heart problems, chronic headaches, varicose veins or recent surgery. (All this information can be given to us when you fill in your new client paperwork.)
• The benefits of massage are greatly enhanced when you are completely relaxed. Prior to a massage, a hot shower is a good way to begin this relaxation and to get rid of the stress of the day.
• You may receive your massage completely clothed, unclothed, or you may wear your underwear or a swimsuit. The therapist will be sensitive to your need for privacy and will keep your body covered except for the area that is being massaged. If you prefer, you can ask that no lotions or oils be used.
• Once on the massage table, close your eyes and allow yourself to relax as completely as possible. Focus your attention on your breathing, which should be slow, even and deep.
• Conversation may be distracting for both you and the therapist. Limiting conversation may actually enhance your massage, allowing you to completely focus on yourself.
• If the therapist located an area of pain or tension in the body, consciously try to relax that area. It is helpful to mention any area that is particularly sensitive or tender. As you inhale deeply, it helps to visualize your breath flowing into the tense spot and creating a muscular softening or relaxation. As you exhale, visualize the tension leaving your body with the breath.
• Allow the therapist to move your limbs into various positions. Be limp like a rag doll. Do not try to help move your arms, legs or head – again, the more relaxed the better. The therapist is a trained professional who will not do anything to hurt you. However, feel free to speak up if anything is painful, ticklish or uncomfortable in any way.
• Contrary to a common notion in our society, massage is an ancient healing art and not a sexual service. Feelings and thoughts may occur during the massage. However, sexual behavior during the massage is inappropriate and will result in termination of the session.
• Very often your body releases tension during a massage and your mind may experience emotion. If you suddenly feel sad, angry or joyful, don’t be alarmed or ashamed. If you like, allow yourself to express these feeling by laughing, crying or talking. At the very least, feel free to sigh with relief or hum with pleasure.
• Many people fall asleep during a massage — an indication that your body and mind are relaxed. Some people say they experience a deeper sleep in a massage than they do at night. This is because the subconscious mind follows the therapist’s hands, rather than focusing on negative issues and events, or other distressing thoughts.
• Massage therapy reduces pain, enhances joint and muscle functionality, improves circulation and general body tone and relieves mental and physical fatigue. We hope that your massage is both enjoyable and beneficial and that the experience will be the beginning of a life long practice to help you enjoy the best possible quality of life!
To book a session CALL (415) 921-1290
We take appointments by REQUEST or REFERRAL