14 Ways To Have A Better Massage
- It's OK To Be Naked
It's normal to feel uncomfortable to be nude with somebody you have never met. Remember that your massage therapist is a trained professional and undressing can lead to a better massage. Oftentimes, leaving undergarments on can get in the way of strokes and pressure points. You will not be completely exposed since your massage therapist will only reveal the parts being massaged and cover them up as you go.
- Always Breathe
It is essential that you don't forget to breathe as your massage therapist works out a particularly bad knot. Breathing will help oxygenate and aid tense muscles.
- Stay Hydrated After Your AppointmentYour muscles may become dehydrated after a massage. Because of this, it is important to drink plenty of water post-massage to help with rehydration, building healthy muscle tissue, and removing metabolic wastes that accumulate as your muscles are worked out.
- Take A Warm Show Before
Taking care of yourself is always a good thing to do before getting a massage. By taking a warm shower, you will feel more relaxed and less tense. Also, feeling clean will help rid you of any insecurities that might come into play.
- Fit In Your Workout Before Your Massage Working out after a massage can stress and strain the muscles that were just relaxed. For deeper work it is recommended that you avoid working out for 12-24 hours to allow healing time. Deep work causes micro-tearing of the fibers the same way a hard workout would do to your muscles which is why it is best to relax.
- Request Your Preferred Massage Style When SchedulingWe always want you leaving feeling great about your massage. Don't hesitate to let us know what you are looking for so we can match you with the best massage therapist to fit your needs.
- Be Good About Your Timing
Some like their massages as a good start to their day while others like to get it done at the end as a way to unwind. Think about what best fits your schedule so you can book your massage at a time that works best for you.
- It's OK, Bodily Functions Happen
Did you know massages also help with digestion? If you're getting a massage and hear grumbling noises or even flatulence it's ok, no need to freak out. If this is something that really worries you then try to avoid high fiber foods before your appointment and go to the bathroom before so you don't have a full bladder.
- Don't Eat Right Before
Eat light a couple hours prior to the massage but do not starve yourself. Since massages help with digestion, it's recommended to eat light to avoid feeling uncomfortably full.
- Speak Up
Don't be afraid to let your therapist know what feels good and what doesn't. This helps them do a better job on you. If the pressure is not right or you want them to work on a specific area tell them to do so in order for you to leave feeling your best.
- It Shouldn't Hurt
There may be slight pain in stretching or having tight or tensed muscles worked on, but relaxation really is the key. Too much force will cause the muscle to tighten up creating even more pain and possibly bruising. Your therapist won't be offended if you tell them something hurts too much.
- One Massage Every Couple Of Years Won't Do Much
The saying "Less is more" definitely does not apply when it comes to massages. Massage therapy is a long term wellness routine and it packs the greatest benefits over time. Getting a massage, even if it's just once a month, will help diminish injury.
- Skip The Post-Massage CoffeeCaffeine can tense up the muscles you just had worked on. It's best to drink water or an herbal tea.
- Treat The Soreness Since your muscles are worked pretty hard, they may be sore after a massage. In order to treat the soreness you may try icing the sore area or even do light stretching, light yoga or even getting an adjustment at a chiropractor after is perfect harmony.
