What to Expect During
a Massage or Bodywork Session
Will I Be
Covered During the Session?
You will be properly draped at all times to keep you
warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on
will be exposed.
What Parts
of My Body Will Be Massaged?
You and the practitioner will discuss the desired
outcome of your session. This will determine which
parts of your body require massage. A typical full
body session will include work on your back, arms,
legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders.
Will
Lubricant Be Used?
A light oil or lotion may be used to permit your
muscles to be worked on without causing excessive
friction to the skin. The lubricants used should
hydrate the skin and be readily absorbed.
What Will
the Massage or Bodywork Feel Like?
It depends on the techniques used. In a general
Swedish massage, your session may start with broad,
flowing strokes that will help to calm your nervous
system and at ease exterior muscle tension. As your
body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be
increased to relax and relieve specific areas of
muscular tension. You should communicate with your
practitioner immediately if you feel any discomfort
so that another approach may be taken. Massage and
bodywork are most effective when your body is not
resisting.
Are There Different Kinds of Massage and
Bodywork?
There are numerous types of massage and bodywork.
Various techniques utilize different strokes,
including basic rubbing strokes, rocking movement,
posture and movement reeducation, application of
pressure to specific points, and more. Ask the
practitioner about the methods he uses.
How Long Will the Session Last?
The average full-body massage or bodywork session
lasts approximately one hour. Many people prefer a
90- minute session for optimal relaxation. Always
allow relaxation time prior to and after the
session. Hot tubs, steam baths, and saunas can
assist in the relaxation process.
What Should I Do During the Massage or Bodywork
Session?
Make yourself comfortable. The practitioner will
either gently move you or tell you what is needed
throughout the session (such as lifting your arm).
Many people just close their eyes and completely
relax. Others like to talk during their session.
Feel free to ask the practitioner questions about
massage and bodywork in general or about the
particular technique you are receiving.
Where Will
My Massage or Bodywork Session Take Place?
Your massage or bodywork session will take place in
a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music
may be played to help you relax. You will lie on a
table especially designed for your comfort.
Who Will
Perform the Massage or Bodywork?
Your session will be conducted by a professional who
has received proper training, often in a variety of
techniques. Some massage and bodywork practitioners
are licensed by the state, while others are locally
regulated. Although no two massages are exactly
alike, you may request a certain technique or
modality. You may also request your preference as to
a male or female therapist.
Must I Be
Completely Undressed?
Most massage and bodywork techniques are
traditionally performed with the client unclothed;
however, you may decide what amount of clothing you
prefer to wear for your own comfort. You will be
properly draped during the session.
Will the
Practitioner Be Present When I Disrobe?
The practitioner will leave the room while you
undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself
with a clean sheet or towel.
How Will I Feel After the Massage or Bodywork
Session?
Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience
freedom from long-term aches and pains developed
from tension or repetitive activity. After an
initial period of feeling slowed down, people often
experience increased energy, heightened awareness,
and greater productivity, which can last for days.
Since toxins are released from your soft tissues
during a massage, it is recommended you drink plenty
of water afterward.
What Are
the Benefits of Massage and Bodywork?
Massage and bodywork can help release chronic
muscular tension and pain, improve circulation,
increase joint flexibility, reduce mental and
physical fatigue and stress, promote faster healing
of injured muscular tissue, improve posture, and
reduce blood pressure. Massage and bodywork are also
known to promote better sleep, improve
concentration, reduce anxiety, and create an overall
sense of well-being.
Are There
Any Medical Conditions That Would Make Massage or
Bodywork Inadvisable?
Yes. That’s why it’s imperative that before you
begin your session, the practitioner ask general
health questions. It is very important that you
inform the practitioner of any health problems or
medications you are taking. If you are under a
doctor’s care, it is strongly advised that you
receive a written recommendation for massage or
bodywork prior to any session. Many practitioners
may require a recommendation or acknowledgement from
your doctor for a massage or bodywork session.
