Photo Credits to www.bahai.org.pg

A massage is one of the simple joys in life that anyone can enjoy. It’s an excellent way to relax, ease muscle aches and pains, and reduce stress. However, getting a massage is more than just going to your appointment, feeling good for a while, then forgetting about it.

It’s important to approach your massage session openly and thoughtfully so that you can truly maximize its benefits. Be as receptive and open to the massage process as possible. By opening up and allowing yourself to relax, you can enhance the therapeutic effects of the session and leave feeling more relaxed, refreshed, and balanced.

Here’s how to get the most from your massage. Just follow the tips below and you’ll soon discover the power that massages can do to your physical and mental wellness, as well as your overall well-being.

Be On Time

Arrive on time or at least 15 minutes early for your appointment. This gives you enough time to settle in, take in the ambiance, and prepare your mind and body for the session. If you arrive in a frenzied, rushed state, it may take you longer to relax, which may prevent you from maximizing the experience. On top of being on time, it’s ideal that you arrive bathed, hydrated, and dressed in comfortable clothes.

Additionally, there’s a reason why massage sessions are scheduled. If you show up to your appointment late, you will disrupt the spa’s schedule and potentially shorten your own massage time, diminishing the overall experience and benefits. So aim to arrive early so you can kick back, relax, enjoy the spa’s complimentary cup of tea.

Communicate Openly

Open communication is the key to the best massage experience possible. It’s a win-win situation – you’ll get a service tailored to your specific needs and preferences and the spa will have gained a satisfied customer. Here are some situations that may come up:

• If the spa requires you to fill out a health information form before your session, be as accurate and as honest as possible.
• Let the front desk know whether you prefer a male or female therapist.
• If you’re going in for an aromatherapy massage or any service that will involve the use of oils, lotions, or powders, inform your therapist if you have any allergies so that she can choose a substitute.
• During the session, soothing music will be played and your therapist will not talk by default unless talked to. Let your therapist know whether you want music or not and if you’re welcome to some light conversation.
• Let your therapist know your preference regarding pressure, speed of hand movement/, or if there’s a particular part of the body you’d like him/her to focus on.
• If you feel any discomfort or distraction during the session, whether it’s from the massage  or distractions related to the environment (noise, music volume, lighting, room temperature, etc.), inform your therapist.
• Don’t hesitate to raise any concerns. If anything happens that you dislike or seems improper, you have the right to ask the therapist to stop and end the session.

Breathe Normally

Natural breathing helps facilitate the relaxation of your mind and body. Remember to breathe normally, as in full and gentle belly breaths. Oftentimes, people will hold or limit their breathing if they’re feeling anxious or when a sensitive area is being massaged.

If you catch yourself holding your breath, consciously return your breathing to normal. Take deep breaths when areas of tension are being worked on. This way, your body can relax and just go with the flow.

Relax Your Mind and Body

As you breathe normally, it’s also important to calm your mind and loosen your body. Tightening up by contracting or hardening your muscles during the massage is counterproductive so just let loose to allow the tension to leave your body. Just let go, be mindful of the present,  and focus your mind on the sensations that you feel during the session. Remember, the more you focus and be present in your body, the more benefits you will receive.

Additionally, it is also highly encouraged that you do not use any gadgets during your session. Being on your phone will only cause distractions and you won’t be able to maximize the experience. 

Take Your Time

There’s no need to get up and leave as soon as your massage finishes. Your body may need some time to absorb the changes of the massage, that’s why those who get up too quickly may feel dizzy or lightheaded. Allow for some open, quiet time after your massage session to just breathe and take in the positive feelings and sensations that the massage has provided to your mind and body. 

Conclusion

It doesn’t take a lot to get the most out of your massage session. You just need to be prepared and timely for your appointment, be open to communication, learn to breathe and relax, and to take your time when the session is over.

To maximize the benefits of massage therapy, plan to visit a reputable spa regularly. Tension builds up after a short amount of time, so regular spa visits will help make sure that you’re always feeling relaxed, refreshed, and balanced.