A good massage starts the day before. Try and get a good nights rest and avoid having coffee or other caffeinated beverages up to four hours before your session. If you drink lots of water, that's great! Avoid finishing off those last minute jobs before your session, as it will take you longer to unwind once your therapist starts working on you. If possible, start relaxing 20 minutes prior to your session. Having a warm shower or bath before your therapist arrives is a great way of starting the relaxation process.
Location! Location! Location! Ensure that there is enough space around the table in order for your therapist to move around freely. It is also important that you feel secure and private in the massage space. Your therapist works according to a strict code of ethics, and will insist on your privacy.
Switch off! Nothing disrupts the flow of a great session more than a mobile phone going off during the massage. Also, watching TV during your session is definitely not recommended. It distracts you from relaxing and distracts your therapist from working. Give yourself the time you deserve and switch off!
Quiet time. Try and arrange for children to be away or taken care of by someone else during your session, although this is not always possible. Remember, pets are children too.
Music, the universal language. Your therapist will supply music that creates a relaxing and soothing ambiance. Allowing yourself to "tune-in" to the energy of the music will greatly enhance your massage.
Not too hot - not too cold. If possible, avoid using those cold spots around your house as the massage space. A comfortably warm room is desirable. If it's been a chilly kind of day, then get the heater out to warm the room up.
Talking can be therapeutic. If you want to have a chat during your session, then go ahead and talk. If you want silence, then your therapist will respect your wish and only talk when neccessary. It's your time.
Gently does it. There is no need to jump off the table at the end of your session. Take a few minutes to lie still after your therapist has left the room. There is no rush! Staying in 'your space' and grounding yourself slowly will enhance the benefits of your massage. Sorting out the payment prior to your session is the way to go. ENJOY! There is nothing more important to your therapist than for you to feel invigorated after your massage. So, take a deep breath, close your eyes, smile and feel alive...
