Before your appointment:

• When booking your first massage, it’s important to decide on the type of massage you want. Different types of massage have different benefits, such as deep tissue massage for muscle tension or Swedish massage for relaxation. If you’re not sure which type of massage is right for you, your massage therapist will be able to help you decide.

• You should also let your massage therapist know if you have any injuries, medical conditions, or allergies that could affect the massage. This will help them tailor the massage to your needs and ensure that it is safe for you.

Things to know before your appointment:

• First-time massage therapy clients can expect the following:

• Before the massage, the therapist will likely ask you a series of questions about your medical history, any current health conditions, and your goals for the massage.

• The therapist will keep your medical history and personal information confidential.

• You will be asked to disrobe/ undress to your comfort level, and you will be covered with a sheet or towel/s during the massage. Only the area being worked on will be exposed. You can always tell your massage therapist if you are uncomfortable about anything including their draping technique.

• The therapist will use different massage techniques depending on your body part and depending on your treatment plan. Some massage techniques are used for different therapeutic objectives. You can always ask your massage therapist to explain what they are doing and why.

• You should communicate with your therapist about the pressure, any discomfort or pain, or if you want to focus on a specific area.

• During the massage, it is good to focus on relaxing and breathing.

• You may schedule a follow-up appointment if you wish to continue the treatment and you can ask your therapist about their massage treatment plan for you.

• You should wear comfortable clothes and avoid anything that would be restrictive during the massage.

• Arrive on time for your appointment, as arriving late may result in a shortened session. If you haven’t filled out a health history form, arrive earlier than your appointment so that you will have time to fill out your form.

• Remember that the therapist is a professional and will not engage or tolerate any inappropriate behavior.

• If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to speak up, or ask for clarification.

• Do not expect a “cure-all": It is important to note that massage therapy is not a cure–all solution and should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. While massage can help relieve pain, tension, and stress, some chronic issues such as years of bad posture will not be fixed in just one massage session.

During your appointment:

• your massage therapist will ask you about your health history/ injury/ areas of concern based on the form you just filled out. You will then be taken to the massage treatment room where you will be asked to disrobe/ undress alone to your comfort level and lie down on the massage table under a sheet. Your massage therapist will be outside the massage room as you disrobe and will knock to ask if you are ready and under the sheet.

• During the massage, your therapist will use various techniques, such as kneading, gliding, and tapping, to manipulate the muscles and soft tissue of your body. It’s important to let your massage therapist know if the pressure is too light or too deep at any time, if any areas of your body should be avoided, or if anything is making you uncomfortable. They will be happy to adjust the massage to suit your needs.

After your appointment:

• After the massage, the massage therapist will leave the massage room, and you will be given some time to rest and get dressed. Your massage therapist may give you some after-care instructions, such as drinking water, avoiding certain activities, stretching, or strengthening techniques.

• It’s normal to feel a little sore after your first massage, but this will usually disappear within a day or two. If you have any concerns, be sure to let your massage therapist know.

• Overall, massage therapy can be a great way to relax, reduce stress, and ease muscle tension. By understanding what to expect and how to prepare for your first appointment, you can ensure that you get the most out of your massage therapy experience.