Tips for Getting a Great Massage

When you follow these tips, your massage therapist, whether that’s me or someone else, can give you a more effective and enjoyable massage.

Before

• Book an appointment. Walk-ins usually don’t fit into my schedule, but if you call or go online, we can find a time that works for both of us.
• Reschedule your massage if you’re not feeling well. You’ll enjoy the massage more when you recover and won’t expose others to your illness.
• Shower after working out before you come for your massage. Avoid wearing strong perfume or cologne.
• Arrive at my office on time or a few minutes early.
• Be prepared for a brief client intake; bring a list of your medications.
• Wait for me to leave the room before you undress.
• Silence your cell phone.

During

• Speak up! Let me know if I need to adjust the pressure, if I do something that tickles or is uncomfortable, if you’re too hot or too cold. Tell me if the music is too loud or even if you’d prefer different music.
• Don’t make sexual jokes. I have absolutely no sense of humor on this topic.
• Relax, disengage your mind and drift with the music.

After

• Have realistic expectations. An hour-long massage won’t permanently relieve pain from years of repetitive motion or repair physical damage from an auto accident, but should reduce the pain.
• Tell your friends.