When you’re feeling tense, stressed, and achy, treating yourself to a professional massage can make a world of difference. They benefit your body and mind by washing away all the stress of a hard week or alleviating the tension that has built up. A professional-level massage can be an intimate and personal experience, and there are a few ways you can prepare yourself for the session.
Get Squeaky Clean
It’s courteous to arrive at your massage appointment smelling fresh and free of grime. Nobody wants to massage a person that reeks of body odor and feels sweaty to the touch. Make sure to eliminate any dry patches of skin, unkempt toenails, or anything else that would be considered uncouth in its current state. This doesn’t mean you have to go get a pedicure and a haircut, but just touch up areas where you are able. If you just had a sunburn and are peeling, maybe think about postponing your session. You will be getting doused in oil and will require a shower afterward, but making the decision to bathe beforehand will help you relax by eliminating and feeling of self-consciousness, and also the person giving the massage will be thankful for it.
Nourish Yourself
Picture this: You’re getting a relaxing massage when suddenly your stomach starts growling, interrupting the flow and throwing your mental state out of wack. It’s a good idea to eat a little something before your session, as well as drink enough water to keep yourself hydrated for the duration of the massage. Just be sure not to eat and drink so much that you’re going to need to use the bathroom beforehand. In fact, just go ahead and use the restroom before you get started, just to be safe.
Communicate Your Wants and Needs
Relax. Take a deep breath. Give yourself a minute to mentally prepare. Getting a massage from a stranger can be awkward and intimidating, but these are professionals who deal with this kind of thing a dozen times a day. They will try to make you feel as comfortable as possible, but a large part of it is communicating your wants and needs to them as well. Is there a specific area you would like them to target, like a shoulder or your back? Or maybe there is a spot you would prefer they steer clear of, such as the inside of your thigh, or perhaps you’ve been meaning to have a medical expert fix hammertoes that have developed and feel insecure about them being touched. Whatever you need to express to them, do so. Don’t be afraid to speak your mind.
Relax
At the end of the day, you shouldn’t stress too much about your massage session. As previously stated, professional massage therapists are trained to deal with a lot worse than whatever it is you think might happen during your time with them; they’ve probably seen it all. Just take a step back, do what you can to get ready, and remember to enjoy the luxurious experience.