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It is important to find a qualified massage therapist who has graduated from an accredited school and/or has passed the National Certification Exam for Massage and Bodywork and has the appropriate business licenses for their jurisdiction. Ask someone who you know for a referral. A good referral source is someone who has experienced different massage therapy styles or someone in the health care field who has knowledge about massage.
Prior to your massage, drink plenty of water. Dehydrated tissue is harder to work with and more painful for the client.
Arrive 10-15 minutes early to fill out a health history form and review this with the therapist so that he/she will know where you are having difficulties and what area to focus on. This will help determine the type of massage that best fits your need.
The office setting includes a private room for massage with a massage table that has fresh linens or towels for draping purposes. There is usually soft music and dim lighting to enhance the relaxing experience. The environment plays a vital role.
The therapist will leave the room to allow you to undress privately and to get on the massage table under the sheets/towel. Remember to remove all jewelry. The massage will be discreet, only the area that is being worked on will be uncovered.
Bolsters will help protect your back while lying down and pillows for additional support. A face cradle is used in the face down position so work can be done on your neck. Sometimes you may experience congestion in your sinuses due to this face-down position, but this is usually only temporary.
For most techniques, the therapist will use oils or cream. Some may get in your hair so you might want to tie your hair back, if it is long. If you have allergies to oils, please let the therapist know.
Communicate with the therapist about anything that is uncomfortable: such as pressure (too deep?), pain, cold room, therapist talking too much? Do not feel obligated to carry on a conversation while getting a massage - you can relax more if you do not talk and the therapist can concentrate on the work.
Remember to breathe slowly and deeply throughout the session. Breathing will help to reduce tension and it will assist in the flow of blood and oxygen to restricted muscle tissue. At the end of the session, the therapist will leave the room. Get up from the table slowly and get dressed.
After your massage drink plenty of water. At least ½ your body weight in ounces is recommended on a daily basis. Refrain from vigorous exercise for 24 hours after a massage, unless your massage is designed for a pre-determined sporting event. Proper stretching is helpful in maintaining the increased flexibility that you will experience after your massage.
Upon payment, many people wonder about tipping. Tipping is optional - not expected but always appreciated.
Soreness: it is possible to be sore after a session, especially if it is your first massage and you fail to drink plenty of water afterwards.
It is recommended to schedule appointments in advance and plan on getting a massage at least one time per month for therapeutic benefits. Don't wait until you go on vacation - use massage as a mini-vacation or stress-break during your normal routine.
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