Massage Therapy Etiquette by Ms. Emily Post :)

For all of you who have never had a massage, I have decided to take off my massage therapist "hat" and become a first time client. I actually had my first massage during the first day of massage school 4 years ago. It can be a nervous and anxious experience because expectations are unknown.
Most places will want you to fill out a medical history form that may take 5-10 mins so you probably want to get to your appointment before the allotted time. The massage therapist should come out and greet you with professionalism and politeness. They will proceed to bring you to the treatment area and explain what will happen next. The key to massage is just try to relax, take nice deep breathes and communicate with your therapist what kind of pressure you prefer and if you have any specific areas you would like him/her to work on (i.e. feet, head, face, etc.). A professional massage allows you undress, but keep on whatever undergarments make you feel comfortable. The area that is being worked on is the only area undraped. The pressure should be in your comfort zone and if it is not, you should let your therapist know right away to deepen or lighten the intensity. The first appointment for any person is going to be a learning experience for both client and therapist. If you continue to see the same therapist, they will learn more about your body (i.e. where you hold your stress) and can adapt the massage to what you need or want. A "good" therapist won't do a "cookie cutter" massage, the exact same thing every single time. After (and even before) a massage, your body must be well hydrated especially if you prefer deep tissue massages like I do. The next day you might even be a little sore. It just means that you need to drink more water and maybe take some Ibuprofen or Aleve. If you ever have any questions, always feel free to ask your therapist. He or she should dictate the massage atmosphere to what you want. If you want to talk, talk. If the music is too loud, please let your therapist know. I always think that it's better to know then to not know! Getting a massage is a wonderful gift of health and wellness that should always be enjoyed and loved!