What to Expect
The first session with a new massage therapist can present some uncertainties - how much of my clothing should I remove, do I lie face down, where should I put my arms? Hopefully this information will help you feel confident to know exactly what to expect on your first visit!
One key item to know is that you can make yourself comfortable. From the intake process to table time and after, if there is something you need to feel more at ease, please don't hesitate to let me know. This includes a glass of water, what position you are lying in on the table, what clothing you wear or don't wear, and many other things as well.
Before beginning the massage, I will have you fill out an intake form if you haven't already filled one out and brought it with you. We will have a brief conversation to help me understand what you are looking for and needing from massage including discussing any past injuries or areas of extreme tension to be worked on or avoided depending on the situation.
After we are finished talking I will leave the room and ask you to undress and situate yourself on the massage table under the sheet and blanket. I will let you know whether we will start face up or face down. Generally it is common to remove all clothing excepting your underwear. However, because your comfort level is important, leaving more clothing on is also an option. Please don't hesitate to ask me if you have any concerns or questions!
When you are on the table and covered, I will return into the room after knocking and asking if you are ready. Then the massage will begin! Many massage therapists use scented oils or lotions, I prefer not to use them. However, if you are uncomfortable at all during the massage please let me know and I can incorporate lotion into the session. The lotion I do use is unscented and not greasy. Throughout the massage I will ask you questions around how you are feeling, if the pressure I am using is too much or too little or if you can move certain parts of your body in ways to assist in the release of the tension I will be working on. We will work together in this way during the session until our time is up. Then I will leave you to rest for a few minutes and get up and dressed when you are ready. I will then return into the room, offer you some water and check in to see how the session was for you and how your body is feeling.
It is common for some people to have some lingering tension for a few days after the massage depending on your level of injury or stress. Some people feel more relaxed right away, others need a few days to incorporate the work into their system to feel the effects. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or concerns after our massage.