Are you a newbie to massage?
The reality is we were ALL new to massage at one time. I can SO relate. I know it’s hard to believe, but I used to be afraid of massage. When the subject came up I would leave the room or change the subject.
I was NOT going to get naked, lie under a sheet and let a stranger rub on me. Uh, NO! Just NO!
It’s a long story how I came to love massage. It can be boiled down to peer pressure. But, oh am I happy it happened!
So, if you are fearful of massage, may I be the first to say, “don’t be – I encourage you to give it a try.” The benefits are many.
Here is my list of the top 5 things you should know before your first massage.
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Get a referral from a friend. It’s good to know that a friend has had a good experience with a therapist before you go. Let the therapist know it’s your first massage. They will explain everything in detail.
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Don’t be afraid to speak up. As a therapist I LOVE it when my client says, “I’m too hot, too cold, too anything!” We really are all about making you as comfortable as possible and making the massage experience everything you want it to be.
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You will be draped at all times – only the body part being massaged is exposed. You don’t HAVE to get naked. Undress to your comfort level.
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Deep relaxation gives your body a chance to recharge and heal. Do you remember when your mom would insist on bed rest when you were sick? The same can be applied to the rest during a massage. Deep relaxation is essential for healing.
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Reduction of stress. Did you know stress is a contributing factor to many diseases including heart disease and cancer? Massage reduces stress levels and allows the body to rest deeply.