how to get the most out of your massage

If this is your first massage, there are some things I would love to let you know, mostly because I wish someone had told me these things before MY first massage!

communication:

During our intake please let me know about your goals for the massage (relaxation, pain relief, etc) and we will work together to design your session and discuss what is possible to achieve in our time together. Your massage is a collaboration between us, but you are always in charge of your session. Massage is vulnerable work! I encourage you to speak up at any point to let me know how you are feeling both physically and emotionally. Never be afraid to ask a question, tell me you are too warm or cold, or that the pressure is too much or not enough. This is a space of healing, compassion, and empathy. 

A lil sidenote: I feel I do my best work when I am able to fully focus and be present on the work I’m doing, but if you need to chat during your massage, I am here to hold space for you!

Before we begin:

We will go over your medical history and discuss what brings you in, any areas of tension or concern, any areas you would like me to avoid, and what sort of pressure you would prefer. 

Undressing:

Your safety and comfort are my top priority during a massage. Usually, therapists will ask you to “undress to your comfort level” and this means something different for everyone! Some folks will undress completely, others will keep their underwear on, and some will not feel comfortable undressing at all. Please know that there is no wrong answer!

If you choose to keep your underwear on, I would suggest not wearing anything expensive or precious, as we will be working with oils and lotions that may stain them. A massage with clothing on may include more compression than traditional “flowing” movements typically associated with massage, but will still be therapeutic and effective!

Please remove any jewelry, watches, or accessories as these can get in the way of our work. I will leave the room to allow you to get on the table in private. 

Draping:

You will be under a sheet and blanket during your massage. I will undrape only the part of your body that I am working on, the rest of your body will stay covered. I will not at any time expose any vulnerable areas of your body and you can tell me at any time if you need me to adjust the sheet and blanket to make you more comfortable. 

Pressure:

I like using a 1-10 scale for pressure, and if this is your first massage I will recommend we start at a 5 and adjust depending on how your body responds to that pressure. I will check in a few times during your session about the pressure, especially if I am feeling tension or resistance. You can speak up at ANY time to let me know if you want more or less pressure!

A note about pressure: there is a misconception that deep tissue massage is the only way to relieve pain. Just because an area is sore or tense does not mean it requires deep pressure! Light to moderate pressure and assistive stretching can be just as therapeutic! Be open to listening to what your body is telling you it needs!