Want to know how to receive a massage? Even if you’ve had many massages, this post may help. Keep reading to find out.
A Little Story…
I went to a swanky spa once and the massage therapist started out the session with some essential oil on her hands, which she placed close to my nose, and told me to breathe in slowly for some count and then exhale for some count. Oh, and do it 3 times or something. Maybe some folks love this, but, honestly, I did not. I mean, it smelled good and all, but it felt intrusive, especially at the beginning of a session with a therapist I hadn’t seen before. I still enjoyed the massage, but recalling this memory has me thinking….
Is there a proper way to receive a massage?
I’ve been pondering this and wanted to share my thoughts. Let me start out by saying everyone seems to be different. For example, some clients love to talk the whole time. Some talk a few minutes at first and then settle in. And some want a silent session. Do I care if a client wants to talk or not during their session? As I said in my previous e-newsletter, I do not. Whether they want to talk or not is up to them and it is just fine with me. My rule of thumb on talking is that, except when necessary for the massage, I try to not initiate conversation while a client is on the table.
Breathing
Some therapists say that a client needs to breathe a certain way. While this may be helpful for many, it may cause anxiety in others. When I am receiving a massage, I find that focusing on my breathing and doing more belly breathing allows me to relax more deeply. Again, whether you want to focus on your breathing is up to you. Experiment and see what is better for you.
Being Present
I find being present is helpful when I am receiving a massage. By that, I mean I try to focus on what the massage therapist is doing. I also REALLY try to not anticipate. This is especially difficult for me because, as a massage therapist, I sometimes try to analyze what the massage therapist is doing. I want to stop doing this because it takes away from my experience. But, again, I am not telling you to be present. Feel free to zone out if you want to! Totally up to you.
Do you see a pattern here? Yeah, I’m not going to tell you the proper way to receive a massage. Because there isn’t one. It really is up to you. Ticklish feet? Totally fine. Just tell me and I’ll avoid your feet and make a note on your chart for next time.
While we’re on the topic, I want you to know that you don’t have to help by lifting legs, arms, fingers, etc., as I’m about to tuck in a sheet or work on the next finger. You can certainly help if you want to, but it is not necessary. Just wanted you to know that you don’t need to feel like you need to. Maybe that takes the pressure off.
I hope this was helpful advice for the next time you come into my office. I’d also value your thoughts, so feel free to email me back.
Do You Need a Massage?
Most of my clients schedule their next appointment at the end of the session. This allows them to plan better and gives them something to look forward to. I mean, who doesn’t want something to look forward to these days?
So, if you’d like to come in, I have openings!
Existing clients, you can book from this link. If you don’t see a time that works for you, please feel free to text/call 972.813.9083 and I’ll see what I can do.
New clients, just call/text me at 972.813.9083 and I’ll get you set up. (Please note that I am accepting male clients by referral or those I know personally.)
Thanks so much! Take care and have a lovely weekend.