How To Get The Most Out Of Your Massage
Having a massage is a wonderful way to relax and de-stress. A massage therapist can work out knots in your back, neck and other muscle areas you may not have even known were tight. There are a number of other benefits to massage therapy as well, including helping to relieve headaches and sports injuries, in addition to helping with digestive orders and anxiety. To get the most out of your massage, there are things you should to do before and during your massage. See below for some helpful tips.
Before Your Massage
- What To Eat/Drink. To help get rid of the toxins in your body, be sure to drink a lot of water; avoid drinks like coffee or alcohol. A cup of tea prior is fine, as the tea can help to get rid of toxins in your body; try green tea for this. Try not to eat anything too heavy before your massage either. Being too full can give you an uncomfortable feeling and won't let you relax. Instead, eat a small, light snack such as fruit about an hour before going to your massage.
- How To Stretch. Stretching before your massage will help aid in your relaxation and will help to loosen your muscles a bit. Start by standing up with your feet about hip width apart. Raise your arms high above your head and then fold over at the waist to touch your toes (if you can't reach your toes, just go down as far as you can reach). Allow yourself to stay in the folded over position to stretch your lower back muscles.
- What To Wear. Dress comfortably for your massage. Don't go in wearing your dressiest outfit and high heels. You should go in wearing something you would wear to the gym, along with comfortable shoes.
Prior to your massage, be sure to arrive early to fill out any paperwork they may have for you to sign. While waiting for your appointment, be sure to use the restroom and try to relax as much as possible.
During Your Massage
- Relax, Relax, Relax. You won't get as much out of your massage if you aren't relaxed. Focus on the touch and the massage, as well as your breathing, and let all of your other thoughts go.
- Communicate With Your Therapist. Communicate with your therapist if you don't want the music, or if it's too loud. Tell your therapist if the room is too hot/cold. Let your therapist know if you have areas that are more tense than others, or if there is any area you don't want them to massage. Also tell your therapist if the pressure is too hard or not hard enough. Communication is key, as you aren't going to relax if you aren't comfortable enough.
Massages can be wonderful, but not if you aren't comfortable or can't relax. Contact places like Inner Harmony Center For The Healing Arts Inc for more information and scheduling.
