How to Prepare for a Massage!

People come in for their first massage at all walks of life. From college athletes to middle age desk workers or retirees enjoying their golden years, it’s never too late (or too early) to try a massage. Sometimes people just aren’t sure what to expect, and so they put off making the appointment. We understand feeling apprehensive over the unknown, but also - wouldn’t it feel good to have those achy muscles massaged by a professional already? Let this be your guide to how to receive a professional massage: what you should know, and how to prepare.

The day of your first massage, make sure you’ve had enough to eat and drink. It’s very hard to enjoy a massage while dehydrated or hangry, and we want you to get the most out of your session. It’s also a good idea to use the restroom right before your session starts. Massage stimulates your parasympathetic nervous system (the rest and digest side), which means your bladder may get full while you’re relaxing. The day or two before your massage, wear sunscreen if you’ll be spending time outdoors. Sunburns don’t like to be touched, and touch is what we do here.

Once you get here your therapist will ask about your goals for the session. It’s a good idea to check in with yourself the day of your massage. What areas of pain or tension do you notice? Are you feeling stressed? Tired? This is all useful information for your therapist. After your intake, the therapist will step out of the treatment room and you can undress and get on the massage table. Some modalities are practiced fully clothed. Most of the time, however, our clients undress for their massage. You’ll be draped with a sheet and comfy blanket, and we can even turn on an electric table warmer if you like to stay toasty.

During the massage your therapist will focus on the area(s) discussed in your intake. You will remain draped for the entire session, exposing only the body part being massaged. Your therapist will check in with you on pressure - your tolerance may change during the massage - but also speak up anytime if more or less pressure will feel better. Generally, you will be massaged lying face up and also face down. Your therapist will tell you when it’s time to turn over and they’ll hold the drape for you. If those positions aren’t comfortable to you, you can also be massaged while lying on your side. Oh, and the face cradle your head is resting in while face down is also adjustable. You should be lying in a position of comfort at all times, we even have special pillows if your chest needs more support while prone.

You might be surprised how quickly 60 or 90 minutes can fly by, and just how much relief you can feel. Reach out if you have any questions or concerns before your first session. We can also make recommendations for which therapist to book with based on your needs. There’s no need to put off scheduling your first massage any longer!