Always be prepared.
First rule for a boy scout, Great tip for a massage client.
I tell my clients all the time “This massage can only be as good as you allow it to be.” Typically I am referring to having open communication with them but I have noticed there are several things that can make or break a massage.
1. Speak up
Let us know how you like or dislike the music, the temperature of the room or table, and as always, the pressure of the massage. There is no need to lay there, sweating profusely, listening to gongs and gritting your teeth because the therapist keeps going over the same knot that makes you light headed over and over and over. We have a decent intuition but we are not mindreaders. You are totally allowed to say what you need to say without feeling bossy or demanding (meaning tone and respect are important when communicating with your therapist, but by all means, have it your way). Our MTs are always more than happy to accommodate.
2. Don’t show up full or starving
Some days, the only time you have for a massage is right before or right after a meal. However, it is best to have a massage about 2-3 hours after eating. If you have to eat right before a massage, try to avoid greasy heavy food. (I’m feeling sick just thinking about how terrible that feels!) You do not want to stop the massage to burp or fart or run to the restroom, do you? On the other hand, if you’re getting a massage when you are really hungry, chances are ALL you will be thinking about is getting all the healing crap over with so you can “run a train on some fish tacos.” (This has been said in my room before. let me clarify, it means to eat a bunch of fish tacos in a row) Also, there is a good chance you won’t feel too hot as your blood sugar drops and toxins are surging through your bloodstream post massage. I suggest snacks. I keep some on hand for myself, and have given some out to hungry clients. Come to think of it, I should really open a snack bar! I will keep you posted on this.
3. Prepare your muscles
Especially if you are having deep work or medical massage done, warm up your body. The night before a massage...FOAM ROLL! Seriously. Firstly, foam rolling will show you where you have the most tension. Secondly, it makes my job soooo much easier once that tissue has been worked, so I can typically get to the root of the problem quicker. Lastly, your recovery post massage will be minimal, as in 1 day or less of soreness compared to 2-3 days of DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness). Drink plenty of water. I suggest ½ of your body weight in ounces of water the day before, the day of, and the day after a massage to keep the lymph moving, muscles hydrated, and toxins low. Of course, do yoga! Get your stretch on. Stretching, like foam rolling, helps you help me. Most of my clients have been given specific yoga poses by me to alleviate their particular muscular imbalances. If I've given them to you, you better do them every day until I see you next.
4. Timing
Show up on time. You may have learned this if you see our team of talented massage therapists because we are usually booked to capacity for the day and are not usually able to go over the scheduled time. Go potty, then check and silence your phone as soon as you get to the studio so that you are not having to do that during your massage time. Try to preschedule add on services or upgrades before you show up for your massage so we can be prepared for the service when you arrive. If you are going to be late, just call us and let us know (this goes back to that communication thing).
Summary
We want you to love your massages and enjoy your “me” time as much as possible. Try these little tips and see how much better your massage can be. We would love some feedback as you help us make your massages the best. Here is how to get in touch with us: