What to Expect on Your First Visit
Your First Massage Therapy Visit
If you've never had a massage before, not knowing what to expect for your first massage therapy visit can be a little nerve-racking. Here's a little outline of what to expect for your first massage treatment to help ease the stress and make the experience a wonderfully relaxing one.
Do a Little Homework
To begin with, do a little homework. Ask around and get a recommendation to a good massage therapist. If your friends can't provide you with a name, then check out this comprehensive directory of massage therapists to find some in your area. When you call or email to make your appointment, don't be afraid to ask questions. Most therapists understand what it's like to have your first massage and will be happy to answer any questions you have and help set you at ease.
When You Arrive
Tell them it's your first massage treatment and ask what you can expect on your first visit. They'll talk you through the process.
Typically, when you arrive you'll be asked to fill out a short health questionnaire. This is to ensure that the massage is safe for you and helps the therapist determine if there are any health issues that may affect their treatment or the techniques they use. The therapist will take a few minutes to review this with you before they start and will find out what areas of your body you would like to have them focus on or whether you have any preferences regarding the depth of the massage or the techniques that are use.
Because relaxation is a component of almost every massage, even very treatment specific visits, the massage is usually done in a quiet, dimly lit room. Some therapists like to burn candles or use aromatherapy as part of the experience. The therapist should give you instructions on setting yourself up on the massage table.
Swedish massage is the most common technique used by massage therapists and this involves kneading and gliding movements, so the therapist will use a lotion or oil and needs direct contact with the skin. Not all massage techniques require that you undress, so if this is something you feel very uncomfortable about, you may want to try another style of massage like Shiatsu, Amma or Thai massage - styles of massage that use techniques that can be done over the clothing.
Do I Have to Get Undressed?
Even though you are undressed, you will be covered with a sheet (or sometimes large towels) throughout your massage. Your therapist will only uncover the portion of your body they are working on. It's your choice whether you want to be completely undressed or leave on your underwear.
The therapist will leave the room while you undress. Any jewellery that might interfere with the massage should be taken off. There will be a table specifically made for massage with an opening to place your face. You'll climb in between the sheets or towels as per your massage therapist's instructions. The therapist will knock before entering the room to be sure you are undressed and covered properly.
It's all right to talk to your therapist, but it's completely fine if you want to just be quiet and relax. Try to keep your mind clear and focus on the physical sensations you are experiencing in your body. Also focus on your breath throughout the massage and take nice, deep, relaxed breaths. You'll often find your breathing naturally slows and deepens as the massage progresses.
What Am I Expected to Do?
Throughout the massage, your massage therapist will give you simple commands such as "turn", "lift your leg", or "take a deep breath." If you have any questions, don't be afraid to ask your massage therapist. Tell them what you like or don't like. If the pressure is too strong, let them know. They have no way to tell if their massage pressure is too much unless you tell them. A massage should be relaxing and not cause you more pain.
Can I Ask Questions?
If you have any questions throughout the massage feel free to ask them. Normally massage therapists will tell you which area they are going to work on next. If you have any sensitivity to that area or don't feel comfortable having certain areas massaged, tell your therapist. It may mean they will change their technique or skip that area. A massage may also include a scalp massage, so if you don't want your hair messed up mention it to the therapist so they will skip the scalp massage.
Do People Fall Asleep on the Table?
It's okay if you fall asleep. It happens frequently. The more you get massaged, the faster you'll relax and the more deeply you'll relax. As embarrassing as it may be, if you have gas, don't hold it in. It won't be the first time someone has passed wind during a massage. And if you have to go to the bathroom, let your therapist know. They can stop the massage for a few minutes while you run to the washroom.
When your massage is over, your massage therapist will leave the room to allow you to dress in privacy. Ask them if you should stay in the room after dressing or go out to the reception area. If you get off the table too quickly, you may feel dizzy. Take your time and get up slowly.
How Do I Pay?
Payment is usually done after your session is over. If you enjoyed your massage treatment be sure to book your next appointment before you leave. It's easy to get busy and forget to take the time to come in regularly.
If you didn't enjoy the work of that particular therapist, don't give up on massage. It would be a shame. Instead, try another therapist. Sometimes you need to try a few to be able to figure out what you like and don't like in a massage. When you do find a therapist that suits you well, in terms of both personality and their technique, the experience can be absolutely incredible.
