To ensure a successful Remedial Massage session, it’s essential to be prepared in the correct way beforehand. Today, we will be discussing some essential steps that you can take to improve your experience, as well as that of your practitioner, before you even step foot in the door. By following these simple guidelines, you can help create a more comfortable and effective massage experience for both you and your therapist.

Taking care of Hygiene.

The most important and easiest thing you can do before a massage treatment is to ensure your hygiene is at its best. This may be as simple as taking a shower within the hour before your session, especially after a busy day at work or a strenuous workout session. Not only will it be more pleasant experience for your therapist, it will also help you to feel more comfortable during the massage.

Wear comfortable clothing.

To make your massage experience smoother, it is vital to wear clothes that are easy to change out of. This allows for a seamless transition onto the massage table and for the treatment to begin promptly. Additionally, it allows you to feel comfortable and relaxed before and after the treatment. You don’t want to be struggling to squeeze into tight jeans following a leg massage. Loose fitting clothes allows the body the room it needs to release tension without being compressed. This allows for relaxation to continue after treatment, reaping the benefits of the massage.

Be hydrated.

Hydration is an important aspect to consider before receiving a massage treatment. According to the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), it is recommended that individuals drink plenty of water or other hydrating fluids prior to their massage session to ensure that their muscles are adequately hydrated (AMTA, 2022). This is particularly important for individuals who engage in physical activities or work in jobs that require them to sit or stand for prolonged periods of time. Adequate hydration helps to promote blood flow and circulation, which can help to reduce muscle soreness and stiffness. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Athletic Training found that athletes who were well hydrated before receiving a massage experienced a greater reduction in muscle soreness compared to those who were dehydrated (Moraska, 2007). Therefore, drinking hydrating fluids before a massage optimises the treatment.

Communication

Effective communication with your therapist provides the most effective relationship and most beneficial massage experience. Before the session, it is important to inform your therapist of any health conditions, injuries, or sensitive body areas you may have. This assists in designing a massage specifically tailored to your needs. Additionally, if you have any concerns or questions about the massage process, it is important to ask for clarification. Clear communication can help the Therapist adjust the pressure and techniques used during the massage to ensure your comfort and safety. If at any point during the session you experience discomfort or pain, it is important to communicate this, to allow for pressure adjustment. Ultimately, effective communication with your Remedial Massage Therapist can help ensure that you receive a safe, effective, and customized massage experience.

Turn Off Your Phone

Turning off your phone or putting it on silent mode during a massage is polite, and also can enhance your experience. Turning off your phone, eliminates any potential distractions that may take your focus away from the massage. This allows you to fully relax and enjoy the experience. Furthermore, the sounds and vibrations of a ringing or vibrating phone can disrupt the calming environment of the massage room. It is important to remember that a massage is a time to disconnect and recharge, and by turning off your phone, you can fully immerse yourself in the therapeutic benefits of the massage.

Relax and enjoy the experience.

Relaxation is one of the primary benefits of a massage, and it is important to allow yourself to fully enjoy the experience. The calming environment, soothing music, and skilled techniques of a Remedial Massage Therapist can help you let go of stress and tension and enter a state of deep relaxation. It is important to remember that a massage is a time to disconnect from the stresses of daily life and prioritize self-care. By allowing yourself to fully relax and enjoy the experience, you can maximize the benefits of the massage and emerge feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.

References

American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA). (2022). What to expect during a massage. Retrieved February 28, 2023, from https://www.amtamassage.org/find-massage-therapist/what-to-expect-during-a-massage/

Moraska, A. (2007). Sports massage: A comprehensive review. Journal of Athletic Training, 42(2), 221–226. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1941294/