To make the most of your next massage, adopt the following four tips before, during and after your session so you can maximize your experience and leave feeling relaxed and refreshed.
Find the Best Massage Therapist for You
Finding a massage therapist that you’re compatible with and comfortable with in regard to personality and massage delivery techniques can make or break your satisfaction.
It’s important to know that every massage therapist has a unique approach and specific areas they focus on. You’re welcome to do research prior to a massage to make sure a therapist’s approach aligns with your goals and expectations.
Communicating your specific aches or pains with the therapist both prior to starting the session and during the session is also important to ensure your needs will be met during the massage.
“If you have specific problems or issues you want addressed, it’s a really good idea to check out a therapist’s resume, certifications and continuing education,” Being honest and upfront with the therapist also is essential so that everybody is on the same page about the purpose of the massage from the beginning.
Be Early and Be Prepared
Rushing around and running late for a massage session will only lead to a sub-par experience, since you aren’t giving your mind and body time to pause and prepare for a relaxing experience. To get the most benefits out of your massage session, it is recommended that you arrive at The Hub at least 15 minutes ahead of the appointment to fill out paperwork, use the bathroom and decompress any stress you may have.
When you’re lying on the table waiting for the therapist to come in to start the massage, it also can be helpful to take a few deep breathes to clear your mind and prepare your body to melt into the warm, comfortable table.
Leave Your Thoughts At The Door
One of the biggest obstacles to a successful massage experience is letting outside stresses, devices and frustrations sneak into the massage room with you. Both massage therapists and clients need to make concentrated efforts to remove distractions that can negatively affect the outcome of the session such as cell phones, memories of a heated discussion or home and work stress.
“As you’re in a session, try not to think about all of the things that are stressing you out experience.”
Adopt a Relaxed Post-Massage Routine
After you’ve taken at least an hour out of your day to focus on relaxing and unwinding during your massage session, the last thing you want to do is run out into the world full speed ahead. Instead the best post-massage prescription is to head home to a relaxing environment where you can take a hot bath to relieve any soreness and keep your muscles loose.
“The best day to schedule a massage is when you can just chill out afterward, If you get a massage and then spend the rest of the day rushing around or doing strenuous exercise, you’re not going to enjoy the full benefits of the massage.
Getting a massage is great for relaxing your mind and body, but reaping the benefits of a massage long after the session ends is when you can really start establishing total health and wellness. The next time you schedule a massage, maximize your experience by following these simple but effective principles.
