DestinationSpaVacations Getting the Most From Your Massage

From DestinationSpaVacations

Beauty
Getting the Most From Your Massage
By Bill Nicholls, NCMT, MS Ed
May 3, 2007 - 11:26:10 AM

Heartland Spa
Ask and you just might receive!
Massage is indeed a miracle for some and a non-event for others. Those with touch, body or abuse issues have hurdles that need to be defined and addressed with the therapist, preferably before that initial touch. Remember that every individual is unique and we bring all that uniqueness with us to the table. This is part of the miracle and mystery of bodywork.

No, you don’t have to “get naked”. Seated and sports massage can be done right through the clothing and this is a wonderful option, especially if there are body and touch issues. Those of us who are experienced “massage junkies” still enjoy a choice as to the degree of disrobing. Leave those briefs on if that is your comfort level.

Face cradles do not work for me. There is no claustrophobia, but there is a sinus problem and I’m good for about sixty seconds before breathing becomes a challenge. My personal choice is to lay flat and turn my head from time to time to avoid a stiff neck. It is perfectly okay to ask for a pillow. There are options, you see, we just need to ask.

It took five years for me to work up enough courage to ask my therapist if I could have a bathroom break in the middle of my massage. As a novice, no one told me that massage specifically increases our parasympathetic response (resting/digesting mode). Interesting isn’t it, how many therapists inform clients about the important of drinking water, but we fail to address bladder urgency, stomach sounds and flatulence.

Have you ever had a therapist tell you to “relax”? Right. As if that is going to help. An experienced therapist will subtly and unobtrusively work you into that state via the quality of their touch. Guess what? There are those who prefer to be thoroughly pummeled, kneaded, stretched and invigorated. Isn’t it wonderful that there are so many choices for the true connoisseur?

Tired of that new wave music? Is your therapist massage too deep? Is the table heater cooking you? Maybe you don’t like a darkened room. Your massage session is full to the brim with choices but your therapist will never know unless you tell them. The Message is “Communication for a Comfortable Massage”.