Massage isn’t just an indulgence. It is a powerful ally in your healthcare regimen. Studies show that it relieves pain and improves the range of motion. It also eases, relaxes and softens injured, tired, and overused muscles, enhances immunity by stimulating lymph flow, increases joint flexibility, releases endorphins and lessens depression and anxiety. A regular massage is known to improve the condition of the skin. Just 30 minutes on the table can go a long way in improving your wellbeing. Here’s how to ‑get the most out of your massage:
Find the right massage therapist: Select a certified massage therapist who meets your specific needs. Shiatsu, or acupressure, features more targeted finger pressure in specific areas and needs specialised training. Massages can be expensive, so you may want to try out a smaller centre where the masseuses are just as good as at a spa. Make sure the place is comfortable and clean and your therapist is licensed or certified appropriately. Ask for their best masseuse for the desired type of massage. Don’t buy a package deal until you know if you really like your treatment.
Communicate with your massage therapist: Before the session let the massage therapist know your expectations and reasons for the massage. If you have any specific health conditions, let them know. For instance, if you have any allergies to oils or lotions, tell your massage therapist, who can choose a substitute.
Privacy: Take off only as much clothing as you are comfortable removing. If you don’t want to take off your clothes, wear something that will be comfortable during the massage and will allow the massage therapist to touch and move the areas of your body you expect will need to be massaged. Ensure that modesty is respected at all times.
The environment: Some massage therapists play recorded music during the massage session. If you find music distracting, let your massage therapist know if you would prefer they turn it off. Some people like to talk during a massage, while others remain silent. Tell your massage therapist what you prefer. Feel free to insist on getting exactly what you need.
Give feedback: During the massage session, if you experience any discomfort, whether it’s from the massage or due to any problems or distractions related to the room temperature, music volume, lighting, etc give feedback to the massage therapist on the amount of pressure, speed of hand movement, etc.
Relax: Relax your muscles and mind. If you tighten up by contracting or hardening your muscles during the massage, it will not help. If you find your thoughts racing, concentrate on the movements of the massage therapist, focus on how the touch feels, and think about the muscle being treated with each movement. It also helps to focus on your breathing.
After the massage: Don’t get up too quickly and do allow for some open, quiet time after your massage session. If you’re dizzy or light headed after the massage, do not get off the table too fast. It also may take a little time to integrate or absorb the results of the massage session.
Hydration: Drink extra water after your massage.
Schedule the next session: Be prepared to schedule several massage sessions. Massage has its greatest benefits over time.
Regardless of your intent, whether it is about pampering, rejuvenating or therapeutic reasons, whether it is for stress relief or pain management or, simply, for the fun of it, the more you get out of a massage, the better you will feel and the more quickly your body will respond.