how to receive a massage, get the most out of your mon

How to receive a Massage.

An instructor of mine (years ago now) once said " It is as much an art to receive a massage as it is to give one"

Because Massage is NOT a common part of our american cultural experience, many people do not get the most out of a massage through lack of knowing a few basic and simple Do's and Don'ts:

-----The paiteint's (you) job is to RELAX as completely as possible. The more you relax and let go, the more your body will respond and enjoy. For those that find this hard to do there are some general tips to follow: Breathe deeply and regularly, stressing the exhalation, allowing your body (core and limbs) to be very heavy and sink (melt) into the table. As I (the massage therapist) hands feel areas of tension/stress/ tightness it is normal to respond somewhat defensively- try to resist that and rremind yourself to realx.

----Talk: it truely up to you. There will be some cummunication as you and your therapist need to share how the pressure of the work is going. But general conversation is up to you. Some people talk the entire time, some not at all and some inbetween. your therapist will typically follow you lead. You can listen to the music (bring your own if you like), or catch up on lifes happenings.

----Feel free to provide feedback if any manipulation is uncomfortable. Or if you feel the area biong worked needs more or less time. This is YOUR massage so please share-nothing is taken personally, it is all about profession and you feeling great when you leave.

----Just lie there. Allos the therapist to move your arms/legs/head into whatever position is needed. Sometimes it is to help lenghten the muscle so it will release more, sometimes seeing what the range of motion and joint has and where the muscle restriction is occuring. A massage is hands on but not all or always rubbing. The therpist is a trained and licensed professional so they know what they are doing- however if you feel uncomfortable SPEAK up.
So be helpful by not helping-be a rag doll nice and limp.

----Cosing you eyes sometimes help people relax. The room has low lighting for a relaxing feeling but most people have limited touch in their lives that it take work to relax. Many times closing your eyes can help let go of the stress and craziness of life. Remember, this is your time- so take it, turn off you cell, tune out the world for the time you are having your massage.

----Emotions: It is human to 'stuff' our emotion through our lives. It makes it easier to deal with lifes hardships and unpleasant issues. Massage works on the muscles but also with the bodies energy. Releasing this energy can be an odd feeling for people and those 'stuffed' emotions can surface. I have had some people cry and /or laugh on my table and they don't even know why- and that is normal and ok. It really does not matter why but just let it happen- you will relax further and fell much better afterwards. This does not happen to everyone, and if it does we can stop, pause, or continue. Remember your therapist is a trained professional.

See you soon so your body can feel better and you can ADD life to your day !