How to Receive a Therapeutic Massage

Therapeutic massage is meant to be a relaxing and restorative experience.  For those of you that I’ve worked with over time, there’s client-specific information exchanged to help make for the most effective sessions.  For those new to Hudson Holistics or even to massage, I’ll share my observations of things that help you have the best experience – setting, time, dress, mindset and communication.

PREPARE FOR THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE

Setting

My office is outfitted with a comfortable massage table that can be heated, relaxing music, and appropriate supplies to deliver a suitable atmosphere. A private bathroom as well as a first floor location are meant for your comfort. I have, on occasion, delivered in-home sessions for those clients with an appropriate set-up.

Time

Being pressed for time tends to create more stress for most people.  Don’t squeeze your therapeutic massage in between other appointments that will tend to run over or that will cost you if you arrive late.  Allow yourself adequate flex-time before and after your scheduled massage so that you can enjoy it worry-free during the session and bask in it afterwards.

Dress

Wear as much or as little clothing to make you feel comfortable. From undergarments to nude, great therapeutic massage is not restricted by the amount of clothing you wear.   During your session, you will be draped except for the body part being massaged. You can ask to have the room temperature adjusted or for additional blankets if you feel too hot or cold.

Mindset

The point of the setting, allowing for ample time, and dressing to your comfort level, is to help you be as relaxed as possible.  Breathe deeply and allow yourself to “sink” into the table. Meditate. Be aware of areas of tension and consciously try to relax them.  Does music help with your relaxation or do you prefer quiet? Some conversation is good but it is better to “listen” to your body and share those insights with your massage therapist when a particular manipulation brings relief or pain.

Communication

As a licensed massage therapist, I bring over three decades of experience to the table to serve clients as best as possible. My extensive knowledge in the field  is improved with client specific feedback. If you are new to my practice, I provide a custom intake form and conduct a brief interview to understand your situation and your objective.  While it is good to have a general direction as we embark on this restorative journey, a road map makes the best use of our time together. Detours or other road signs alert us to the latest information for a specific locale during our trip.  So, I encourage you to (a) ask for what you want and (b) provide real-time feedback as appropriate.

You’ll note that even the finest musicians “tune” their instruments before and throughout a concert to deliver their best performance.  My intuition may be a sufficient guide for much of our journey, but the clearer you communicate any particular needs, the more attuned the massage I deliver to you will be.  This is your session – but I need your feedback to achieve a terrific outcome. Contact Amy Balter at Hudson Holistics to schedule an appointment for your therapeutic massage.