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How Does Massage Really Help?

If you have ever looked at a Massage Textbook, you could read, literally, pages of how massage can be helpful to each person.  Normally, we are taught that it can help on more than one level.

  • There is a “relaxation” response that happens, simply because your nervous system cannot help but relax during a massage, if it is being performed properly. 
  • The second level would actually be considered as a “mechanical” response, because the therapist is touching and manipulating soft tissues and muscles, creating immediate physical effects in the body: improved circulation of blood and lymph, tight muscles and tight tissues relax and begin to release, and the manipulations begin to release toxins as well, so they can be flushed from the body. 
  • We all know that our body systems and organs work together as an entire unit.  Massage can affect every single body system in at least one way, which, in turn, is going to help the other organs.  If one part of you begins feeling better, the entire body can receive benefits, which means there is a more internal response to massage as well. 

Your Massage Session

There are so many stressors in life, and your massage appointment shouldn’t be on that list.  My room has been thoughtfully designed to promote healing and relaxation in a soothing environment.  Here are some tips on how you can prepare for your massage, what to expect, and how to derive the most benefit from your session.

Getting Ready …

  • Take Time!  If this is your fist session with me, I am going to ask that you complete an intake form  I need to know more information about you, your medical history, your current status, etc., if I am going to help customize a massage therapy plan for you.   We need to be able to discuss your goals and concerns, and I want to be able to answer any questions you may have.
  • If you are a regular client, we still need time to discuss results from your previous session(s), any new injuries or concerns you may have; any particular areas you would like me to focus on, or areas that you would like avoided.
  • Don’t eat a full meal immediately before coming for your massage.  You may find this to make you uncomfortable.
  • (Un)Dress the part.  Unless your service description specifies that your massage is received clothed, please expect to remove all clothing except your underwear.  You will be given complete privacy to undress and cover yourself.  You will be draped with sheet and blanket throughout your entire session.  As each part of the body is massaged, it will be uncovered, while the rest remains fully draped.  Your comfort and relaxation are my primary concern.

During your massage …

  • Communication is the key to getting the massage you want.  I want each client to feel free to ask that I use more or less pressure, to let me know what they do and do not like during their massage session.  I can customize a treatment plan, but we have to work together for it to be successful.
  • Just breathe.  Don’t try to anticipate discomfort or hold your breath.  Breathe normally and slowly.  If I need you to take a deeper breath at some point, I may ask you to, but otherwise, you are to just relax and enjoy yourself. 

After your session …

  • It is not unusual for someone to feel a little lightheaded after receiving a massage, especially if you are not accustomed to having massage.  Please take your time when getting up from the table and while dressing. I never want you to fee rushed into leaving quickly.
  • I will always try to remind you, but you will need to drink plenty of extra water throughout the day or evening.  This water helps to keep you hydrated and helps to flush out the toxins that have been released during your massage session. 
  • If you are not accustomed to receiving massage treatments, it is not unusual for someone to experience a little tenderness in certain muscles a day or two after the massage.  Keep drinking that extra water!  The tenderness will dissipate quickly and leave you with those areas being more relaxed and loose.

Take time to schedule your next massage appointment before leaving.  Those that receive massage on a regular basis will find that they experience more lasting and positive benefits.  While I may make suggestions at first, especially if we are working on a particularly problem area, your body will eventually let you know how often you need massage.  For some people that will be once a week; others may come every two or three weeks, and once a month may work for another person.  We are all different and our needs are different.

The important thing is for you to learn to recognize that you need to take care of yourself, and massage is one of the best ways you can do this!  There truly is a Mind-Body-Spirit connection, and they all need to work together in harmony for you to live your life to the fullest.  Regular massage can help you feel your best while doing just that!