The first step towards recovery is awareness
Preparing for a massage treatment is a great way to enhance your experience and support your body’s natural healing. For those new to massage therapy, or for anyone looking to get the most out of their session, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind.
Avoid setting up a session right after a strenuous workout or during a particularly hectic part of your day. Ideally, choose a time when you can relax afterward and not feel pressed for time.
Regarding what you eat and drink before your massage, aim for a light meal if you need to eat beforehand, and try to avoid heavy, rich foods within two hours of your appointment. A full stomach can be uncomfortable when lying on the massage table and may distract you from fully relaxing. If you’re hungry, a light snack like a piece of fruit should be sufficient.
It’s also important to stay well-hydrated. Drinking plenty of water before your session can help keep your muscles hydrated and may enhance the effects of the massage. However, avoid drinking too much water right before the session to prevent discomfort or frequent trips to the restroom during the treatment.
Choose clothing that is comfortable and easy to remove. Additionally, it’s wise to avoid strong perfumes or heavy lotions on your skin before the massage. If you have specific shoes you use frequently this could also be useful to bring for further gait analysis.
Arriving at your appointment a bit early is a good idea. This gives you time to complete any paperwork, settle in, and start to unwind before your massage begins. If you have any specific areas of tension or discomfort, or if you have any health concerns, make sure to communicate this.
For those new to massage, it’s normal to feel a bit nervous, especially when you are in pain. Feel free to ask about the process or techniques if you’re unsure. Understanding what will happen can help alleviate anxiety and make you more comfortable.
Remember to focus on your breathing—long, slow exhales can enhance relaxation and help you release tension throughout the session.
Conscious breathing with extended exhales and shorter inhales helps to stretch and relax muscles supporting the spine, and therefore if the breath is constant and specifically not held at any moment during the treatment, there is less tension throughout the body, giving more flexibility to the skeletal structure, making it easier to bring the body and mind back into harmony.
After your treatment, continue to drink plenty of water. Hydration helps flush out metabolic waste released from your muscles and further enhances blood flow and lymphatic circulation.
By preparing thoughtfully and taking care of yourself in between sessions, you can enhance your massage experience and contribute to your body’s natural healing.
