Either you are having a 60 min, or 90 min massage, massage therapy is not just about the session you book for. A better preparation, a thorough consultation, a peaceful mindset and a post-session plan will surely add more pleasant and beneficial results for your wellness. The following is a list of some suggestions that you and the therapist can do to contribute for a wonderful massage experience.

The Day of the Massage

Eating and Drinking

1. Water - don't get dehydrated.

You may not need to drink too much water before the massage, but make sure to drink lots of water after your treatment.

2. Don't drink alcohol and avoid lots of caffeine.

3. Eat lightly or have a snack. NO big meal or heavy food within an hour before the massage.

What to wear

Wear lose fitting, comfortable clothes and shoes. High heels are not recommended to wear as they could offset your post-massage relaxed muscles.

Arriving Early

1. Arrive 5 to 15 minutes before your actual treatment to fill out the intake form or other paperwork if needed. This also allows the therapist to have a good understanding of your concern(s), which helps the therapist tailors the massage to your situation better.

2. Use the bathroom if you need.

3. Give yourself time to breathe, relax and unwind your mind before the massage starts.

Tell the Therapist --

1. If you have epilepsy, heart trouble and/or allergies.

2. If you don't want music during the session.

3. Any questions you may have, and your expectations for the massage.

4. Any areas that are sensitive, or should be avoided.

5. Others that you think the therapist should be aware of.

Stretching

Stretching your body gently before the massage does help the therapist work on your muscles more easily. However, different individuals may benefit from different stretches. If you are unsure what kind of stretches your body needs, don't worry. During the session, the therapist stretches your muscles with proper techniques that benefit your body. After the treatment, the therapist may also introduce stretching exercises that you could do at home or at work.

Entering the Massage Room

What to Expect

Music, Dim lighting, Massage Table, Drape, Hook for clothes... Relaxing atmosphere....

How to Get Ready

1. Remove clothing as much as you feel comfortable.

2. Remove any jewelry and /or other devices you wear that could get in the way during the massage, and leave them in the tray or where you feel safe to.

3. Lay on the table, usually face down or as the therapist asks you to.

4. Cover yourself with the sheet.

5. Close eyes slowly, breathe and relax.

During the Massage

Tell the Therapist if --

1. If you become too cold or too hot.

2. If you would like the pressure to be adjusted with more strength or less.

3. If you would like the therapist to move on to a different area.

How to Enjoy your Massage Better

1. Let your thoughts go, let any stress or concerns you have outside the massage room go. Unwind your mind and enjoy it just for yourself.

2. Relax, focus on the touch or the soft music whichever eases your stress away.

3. Breathe, try to catch yourself if you are holding your breathe.

4. Feel free to take a couple of snoozes.

After the Massage

1. Take as much time as your body needs before getting up and dressed.

2. If there is a plan the therapist suggests to you in terms of take-home stretching exercise, other remedies or subsequent sessions needed, you may wish to follow it and give feedback to the therapist.

3. Don't forget to drink lots of water.

4. Let the therapist know how you feel about the treatment, so the therapist can adjust things for your future session(s).

Sources:

- ehow.com/how_2139509_prepare-massage.html

- voices.yahoo.com/10-tips-prepare-massage-5816184.html

- takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/explore-healing-practices/massage-therapy/what-can-i-expect-first-massage-theraphy-visit

- massageschool.org

- amtamassage.org/findamassage.html

- besthealthmag.ca/best-you/stretching/10-stretches-for-your-back/8/