Massage therapy is undoubtedly a treat for people struggling with anxiety, stress, or someone trying to lift the mood. Despite the endless benefits of massage therapy, people don’t feel comfortable booking their first appointment. 

If you’re skeptical about booking your first massage therapy session, we’ll help you get ready for the first session. You can leverage all the massage therapy benefits if you prepare yourself for the massage therapy. 

This article is all about getting ready for the therapy and what you can expect from it. 

What to Expect from the First Session? 

If you feel anxious about feeling a stranger’s touch or showing the tummy fat, the visible birthmark, or the stretch marks, then an idea of what to expect from the session can help you relax. Here is what you can expect from the first massage session:

1. You might have to undress

The idea of undressing in front of a masseur can be a bit awkward, but you don’t have to remove all the clothing items. The masseur will give you the space to decide for yourself, and a table sheet is always an option to get covered. 

Don’t think much about this part, as the professional will always make sure that you’re always covered.  

2. You might fall asleep

If you sign up for the best massage therapy in Victoria, BC, then chances are you might fall asleep halfway through. Sleep is an indication of a perfect massage, and it’s a great option to alleviate anxiety. 

You don’t have to be worried about dozing off as a nap will make you feel relaxed.  

3. You’ll enjoy it

The endorphin spike will give you a satisfying feeling. The blend of energy and tranquility will make you feel like booking the next appointment as soon as possible. 

Apart from endorphin, regular massage therapy can have several benefits like:

• Low levels of stress hormones
• Better social skills and empathetic feel
• Deactivates pain receptors
• Better blood flow

How to prepare yourself for the first massage therapy session?

Now you know what you’ll feel on your first appointment, here’s what you can do to have a surreal experience right from the first massage:

1. Relax

Massage is all about relaxing, as you’re supposed to enjoy it. The massage works to alleviate anxiety; it shouldn’t be initiate stress or anxiety.

If you stress, the muscles will remain stiff, reducing the efficacy of the session. Remember, the goal is to breathe normally during the session as altered breathing can tighten the muscles.

Also, one should avoid a heavy meal before going to a therapist as a meal before a massage session can divert the blood flow to the stomach for digestion. 

2. Stay Hydrated

Avoiding food before the session is crucial, but you don’t have to skip the water. Staying hydrated is the key to manage a soothing atmosphere while the massage is on. 

Dehydration can often result in inflammation or muscle spasm. Muscle stress can also prohibit the flow of blood & oxygen. 

A massage can result in smooth blood flow, but it can dehydrate the skin due to friction. Thus, it’s necessary to drink plenty of water both before and after the appointment. 

The water will detoxify the body, and the benefits of massage will multiply.  

3. Wear Comfortable Clothing

Comfort is the key when it comes to a relaxing massage session. Relaxed-fit clothing is the ultimate lookbook to the massage center. 

The relaxed fit clothing will allow your skin to breathe, and it can be the best option for someone suffering from anxiety or nervousness. 

Relaxed fit clothing is also in the trend due to the solemn reason of comfort. Even the undressing process will be smooth if you have put on some loose t-shirt.

Once the massage is over, you don’t want to wear restricted clothes, hindering the palliative phase. Thus, comfortable clothes should be on your priority list. 

4. Communicate with the professional

Once you reach the massage therapy in Victoria, BC, talk to the receptionist about your appointment. While you’re waiting for your turn, plug in the headphones and listen to your favorite music, it’s all about transmitting your mind into a peaceful state. 

After lying down on the table, communicate with your masseur. Communication is an integral part of the process for the best results. You can speak about the allergies to any oil or lotion. 

Talk about the areas which need attention or places that cause discomfort & pain. If you feel uncomfortable, tell this to the professional as they can change the technique. Give honest feedback to enjoy it to the fullest. 

5. Take a deep breath

When you’re about to lie down, it’s best to take a deep breath, hold it for a second and let it go. You need to relax and enjoy the process.

6. Stay on the table for a while

Stay on the table even after the massage is over for a while. Getting up can cause nausea or dizziness as the body is relaxing. After a while, slowly get up, and you’re good to go. 

Conclusion

We hope that’ll help you to enjoy your first massage therapy session. The key is to relax and trust the masseur while enjoying every bit of it.