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.
