What to Expect at Your First Massage
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.
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Author: Eric Choong
Please visit my website at: http://www.health-beauty-care.com
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