If you have never had massage therapy, you may be unsure of what to expect at your first session. On your first visit, your massage therapist should do an intake - asking questions about your general health, specific injuries and whether you are under a doctor's care. They may also ask you to stand or walk around and let them watch you. This is the time for you to ask any questions you have for the therapist. The entire process should only take a few minutes. It should not substantially cut into your massage time.
The therapist will then give you instructions on how they want you on the
table (face up/down etc.) They should be out of the room while you are
changing.
The massage room should be clean, private and quiet. Some therapists like to use music, candles, aroma therapy or soothing sounds to enhance your relaxation. If you don't want any of those things you are free to ask the therapist to stop using them. Also, each therapist likes to use a special oil or lotion. If you have something you like to use on your skin, bring it and they will be happy to use it.
During the massage
If you are getting a massage for feel-good relaxation, there should be little or no talking. For deep tissue work the therapist will probably be checking in with you to make sure you are tolerating the work and to remind you to breathe and relax. I will sometimes use light conversation to distract my clients when I am doing very deep work.
As the client, you control the massage - talk / no talk - music / no music / different music - scents / no scents - deeper / lighter. If you are in any way uncomfortable - speak up. Don't ever suffer in silence. Make your wishes known.
Do I have to take my clothes off?
For any massage involving lotion or oil, yes, you do need to be undressed. A massage therapist must have access to your body.
However, if you are uncomfortable being completely disrobed, you should leave your underwear on - the therapist will work around them or move the fabric away from the glutes (butt muscles) to work those specific muscles. The breasts and genitals are not worked on during a massage.
Your should never be on the table without being covered by a sheet or towel. The only part of the body that should be exposed is the part the therapist is working on. When you turn over you should still be covered. Any massage therapist who works with a client undressed and fully exposed is not in my opinion a professional.
When the massage is over, the therapist should leave the room and allow you time to get up and get dressed before they come back into the room.
How do I take care of myself after a massage?
You should drink plenty of water to flush the toxins out of your system. If you have access to a steam room or whirlpool, they are ideal ways to continue cleansing the system. If not, a hot shower followed by a soak bath is also a great follow-up.
For the 24 hours after a deep tissue massage you may feel a little sore or achey. This is a normal response - a lot of stuff gets stirred up and that feeling is a healing response. It should go away within 24 - 36 hours. Rest, healthy eating and fluids will help minimize the response.
You should treat yourself like a fine piece of crystal. Not like a plastic beer mug. Be aware of how you are using your body and where you are in space.
