Plus Answers to Other Frequently Asked Questions!
1) Don't be afraid! This is to be a positive experience, not a scary one. A good therapist will aim to make you feel as comfortable as possible.
2) Communicate with your therapist about your goals for the session. Are you looking to alleviate pain or muscle tension? Are you looking to treat an injury? Restore range of motion? Or just unwind?
3) What about bodily noises during the session? Sounds from your gut, joints, etc? What if you have to 'pass gas' while you're on the table? It's OK. No one will die because you farted during your massage. When the body is relaxed, your digestive system is more active. Embarassing things might happen as a result. No worries at all, no big deal.
4) If you need to use the restroom during the session it's not a problem, just let the therapist know. A short bathroom break is ok, especially if not going would prevent you from fully enjoying the massage.
5) Keep in mind we might not be able to address all of your concerns in just one session. Best results come from getting treatment on a regular basis. Unlocking one part of the body might allow us to make progress on another area and so on. When pain is alleviated in one area, one might notice 'new' pain in another. That is because the 'new' pain might have been there the whole time, but it was not apparent until the 'old' pain was gone. With each part unlocked we get closer to optimal wellbeing and functionality!
5) Undress to your comfort level. Most people just wear underwear, some are completely nude. The therapist covers everything he or she is not working on at the moment. Your privacy is always respected. We leave the roomprior to the session so you can undress and get on the table. After the session, we leave once again so you can get dressed.
6) Breathe! Slow, deep breaths are key. This will help you let go of anxiety and enjoy the massage a lot more.
7) You get the most out of your massage when your body is as relaxed as possible. Allow yourself to sink into the table and let your head, arms and legs heavy.You are safe so give yourself permission to 'let go'. Tensing up during a massage is counterproductive as muscles respond best when they are not actively engaged.
8) The therapist depends on your feedback to provide you with the best individualized service. We can tell when something we're doing is causing you pain because we feel when you clench or hold your breath. However, sometimes clients are really good at hiding their pain so please always let us know if you are feeling extreme discomfort. Always let us know if you want us to adjust pressure, whether it's lighter or deeper. Again, tensing up during a massage is counterproductive as muscles respond best when they are not actively engaged.
9) You are more than welcome to talk during the session, but a massage is more effective when you and your mind are silent. However, if you chatting helps you relax, then feel free to unload or begin a conversation. Everything you say stays in the room and will never be shared without your consent.
10) Any questions or concerns during the massage? Do you want to know why the therapist is using a certain technique, why they work certain areas, etc? Feel free to ask.
11) Be 'in the moment' and enjoy every sensation!
