So, you’ve decided to treat yourself to your first professional massage. Whether you’re getting a massage to recover from an injury or purely for relaxation purposes, it should be something to look forward to. Many people get nervous about their first massage because they don’t want to expect, so we’ve written this blog to help mentally prepare you for it.
Before your massage
Get rid of those pre-massage nerves. A massage is supposed to be a relaxing, enjoyable, and therapeutic experience. It doesn’t matter what you look like or whether or not you’ve shaved your legs – your massage therapist is not there to judge you. They are healthcare professionals who treat bodies of all shapes and sizes every day.
There are a few things you can do to prepare your body for the massage, however. It is recommended that you are well-hydrated for your massage, so drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol the night before your massage. It also helps if your muscles are already a little relaxed, so a hot shower before your massage can be beneficial.
During your massage
The experience during your massage will depend on which type of massage you are getting. Normally, your massage therapist will talk to you first about what you’re expecting from the massage, if there are particular areas you want working on, and if you have any injuries or illnesses. They will then leave the room while you undress. Your level of undress is entirely up to you depending on what you feel comfortable with.
During the massage, your therapist will manipulate your muscle tissues and around the joints in different ways depending on the type of massage. It is important that you are comfortable during the massage, so try your best to relax and speak up if something isn’t right. If the pressure is too much for you, then tell them. If you’re wondering whether to make small talk during your massage, that’s up to you as well. Most people prefer to just relax in silence, but it’s perfectly fine if you want to talk.
After your massage
When you first get up from the massage table, you may feel a little lightheaded. Make sure to stand up slowly and drink some water after your massage. You will hopefully feel the benefits of relaxation and the loosening of muscles and tendons. You may feel a little soreness the next day, but this should pass quickly. You can help it by stretching before you go to bed the night after you’re massage and, of course, continuing to stay hydrated.
If you’re yet to book your first massage, then you can contact Moonstone or go online and book a massage with us today. We’re based in Winston Salem, NC, so come down and experience the benefits of massage with us.