Keys To A Successful Massage Experience

Many times I've heard clients complain that their massage wasn't what they expected. When asked why, the responses vary from complaints about the therapist to "I was late and they cut my time".  So here are some suggestions to enhance your massage experience:
1. Arrive early for your appointment. Give yourself time to sit for a moment and take a few relaxing breaths. Rushing in at 2pm for a 2pm appointment does not set yourself up for a relaxing experience.
2. Don't eat a heavy meal prior to your massage. During digestion, your blood supply is more engaged in that process. Massage requires circulation for the removal of waste products from the muscles. The end result is that you won't feel too good afterwards. Plus, who wants to lie on their stomach when it's full...
3. Turn off the cell phone. The main benefit of massage is relaxation. Giving yourself permission to shut out the external stressors is a freeing experience, and you'll be able to enjoy the massage.
4. Communicate. This is your time and if something is bothering you, you won't relax. If the pressure of the therapist isn't comfortable, the room temperature isn't right, the music is annoying you, speak up. If the therapist or establishment doesn't know, they can't change it. Also, if you want quiet during your session, let your therapist know. Some well meaning therapists like to chat during the massage session. Aside from level of pressure, this tends to be one of the biggest complaints that I hear.
These four simple tips will enhance your massage experience and leave you wanting more.

Learning to Listen

When I first started to write this post, I was going to write about getting value for your health care dollars. What happened as I was writing was very interesting. I was having difficulty saying what I wanted to. Those of you who know me, know that I'm never at a loss for words. The main idea of the post was to show how just looking at price, might not lead to the best experience. As I was struggling, I opened a trade journal and there in front of me was an article about teaching clients the importance of massage during tough economic times. I was being sent a message that I needed to change focus.
This post has taken on a new life as a result of that learning experience. When we are struggling with anything, finances, writing, life in general, it is important to take a step back and observe. There are many times that I have done this and sometimes it seems overwhelming or there's no way out. That is when the message or potential solution usually comes. It can be an idea, a photo, or an article that catches your attention. The difficult part is recognizing the message or solution. We need to get out of our heads and into our heart center. That is when things start to change. I've found that when I'm not paying attention, the message may come in different ways or forms. Eventually, I see it. So as you are going about your life, take time to step back and listen, observe. The answers are there, you just have to see them.

How Do I Find A Qualified Massage Therapist?

As massage therapy has increased in popularity over the last 15 to 20 years, more therapists are opening businesses. Spas, hair salons and franchises are also offering massage therapy.  There are an abundance of places but how do you know if the therapists are competent or qualified? Listed below are a few suggestions to guide you.

Word of mouth is probably one of the best ways. If a friend or relative has found a massage therapist they like, believe me they will be happy to let you know.  Healthcare practitioners and acupuncturists are good resources also.

Professional  associations  such  as the American Massage Therapy Association  (AMTA.org)  have  “find a therapist” resources. Massage Therapists who belong   to these associations must have completed a certain level of education. Some associations require continuing education credits in order to maintain membership.

Ask the therapist where they went to school, when did they  graduate, what are their specialties. Do they have a certification in the specialty or have they taken any continuing education classes in that area. Beware of someone who has a long list of specialties. You don’t want to fall into a “jack of all trades, master of none” situation.

Don’t be afraid to question the therapist. If something doesn’t seem right or feel right, trust your instincts. Remember, knowledge is power.

Is Your Health "Top of Mind"?

Having health issues? Not feeling your best? Notice you wake up or end up walking around all day with a pain in your shoulder,back or neck? Here at balanced blend we can certainly assist you on the path to feeling improved.
We tend to live in a hectic world where paying attend to our bodies,our own state of mind is not even 2nd on our list of daily priorities. We truly assist you in being more self aware during and hopefully after a session.