1.Talk to Us.
Not in the chatty Cathy kind of way. We don't want to have full on conversations during your time (unless you do!) but please let us know what your goals are. If you have an injury. If something feels good or if the pressure is too much. You don't have to lie on the table and hope we can read your mind. You can also let us know if there is an area of the body you don't want us to work on or one that is a favorite (aka don't forget my scalp massage!)
2. Take Your Clothes Off.
Take as much of your clothing off as you feel comfortable but just know that if you want your back massaged and you decide to leave your sports bra on, there is a good chance we are not going to be able to give your back the attention it needs. Same goes for shorts or underwear. Glutes work will be tough if your entire booty is covered. Your therapist will be able to drape you so that nothing is exposed and you maximize the areas to be massaged.
3. This Includes Your Jewelry.
This means your watch, your necklace, your bracelets and your earrings. You will have a much better experience if there is nothing hindering the massage. There is nothing worse that having your neck worked on, only to have the therapist try and maneuver around the tiny chain clinging to your skin. Best rule of thumb...leave it all at home (or in the tiny little dish some therapists provide - we promise to remind you to collect it when you leave).
4. Turn Your Phone OFF!
Vibrate is not the same a OFF. Nothing will break the spell you are under like hearing a phone vibrating in your bag. A tiny piece of you comes out of the bliss your are feeling and starts to wonder/worry about who is trying to contact you when you hear that little buzz. Give yourself the gift of 60 (or 90) minutes of uninterrupted relaxation. You deserve it!
5. Try a Pumice Stone.
Take a peek at your feet. Tootsies can be tough, literally! If you love having your feet massaged, a pumice stone will soften the rough areas and allow a deeper and more stimulating sensation. Pick up a pumice stone at the local pharmacy and keep it in your shower. Give your feet a little love when you cleanse.
6. Take a Hot Shower.
This is part two of the previous bullet point. Hop in the shower before coming in for your massage, if time allows. Better yet...take a bath if that is accessible to you. First, it relaxes your muscles. It allows your body and mind to prepare for the healing that is about to happen. It also allows you to get the daily dirt off and feel fresh for your appointment.*
*We do understand that many people come in for a massage after work and don't have the opportunity to clean up before a massage.
7. Shaving Isn't Necessary.
Sure, it is nice to massage a freshly shaved leg. But your prickles don't bother us. Don't worry about trying to be hairless before coming in for your massage.
8. Tip Accordingly.
Massaging is a very emotional and labor intensive job. There is a ton of energy transference and physical work that happens during a massage. Most therapists in a spa setting earn less that $20 an hour and only get paid if there is a massage booked. There are often times during an 8 hour shift where a therapist might only massage three clients. In clinical settings (chiropractic or doctors offices) therapists might be paid a little higher ($30 and hour) but are very rarely tipped. In short, if you enjoyed your service, feel free to give your therapist a little cash lovin'.
9. Repeat!
Your body is going to get the best benefits if you are consistent with your massages. There are many folks who only get bodywork as a "treat". For an anniversary or on vacation. Massage, along with other types of bodywork, is very healing and necessary for maintaining a healthy and happy body. Try not to think of massage as a once in a while special occasion, but as a lifestyle requirement. Think of massage like working out. You need to be consistent.
10. Falling Asleep is OK!
By all means. Pass out. It is okay by us! (And snoring is totally allowed).
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