Wellness

How to Prepare for your Massage Therapy Session

posted by Chris Valentine

Are you about to have your first massage therapy session and are unclear about how you should prepare? Massage has become more popular over the last two decades and has now moved into the mainstream. Everyone from business people, to stay-at-home moms, take time out of their schedule to get regular massages.

The reason is that massages are wonderful ways to improve your health. Massage therapy is a discipline that focuses on the body’s musculoskeletal system to relieve sore and aching muscles, help stimulate the body’s lymphatic and circulatory systems, repair damaged muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints and to clear and calm your mind. With all of these benefits, it’s no wonder that so many people are now getting regular massages. Here is how you prepare for your first massage.

Wear Loose Fitting Garments

Your massage therapist will want you to have loose-fitting clothing. The massage therapist will manipulate your limbs in many different directions, so having loose-fitting clothing will assist. You should avoid stretch pants and activewear because, although these do allow you to move, they can also inhibit circulation. Remember, massage therapy works partially on moving the blood around your body. Loose-fitting clothing allows for this.

Drink Water Before Your Session

Staying hydrated before and during your massage therapy session is important. Hydrated muscles and limbs are easier to manipulate and it is less likely that you will experience any pain during your massage. Make sure to drink at least a half liter of water 30 minutes before your massage therapy session. You should follow your massage therapy session with at least another half liter of water.

Be Prepared to Breathe

Some massage can be uncomfortable, particularly if you have areas that haven’t been massaged in a while. The way to get through a tough part of a massage, is by breathing. Do not hold your breath. If something feels uncomfortable breathe in and out slowly until the uncomfortable portion passes.

Communicate About Anything that Makes You Uncomfortable or That Hurts.

Although massage therapy sessions can be uncomfortable, you should never be in a lot of pain. If you’re feeling any great discomfort during your massage, communicate this immediately to your massage therapist. The therapist will discuss with you the type of pain you are feeling and make any necessary adjustments so that you are no longer in pain.

Most people find that massage is a necessary part of maintaining good health. This all begins with your first massage session. So good luck and have fun.

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