Here are 5 things I think it's important for clients to know.   I find this information is helpful for people who are new to massage and not sure what to expect, as well as those who get regular massage but would like better results.     

Tips from an Insider - 5 Things Clients Should Know


1)  Have a goal for your session and talk with your MT (massage therapist). 

The goal doesn't have to be complicated but communication is key to getting what you want.  Not sure what you want?  That's fine too, talk to your MT and develop a plan for the session together.  Being clear about the results you expect from your massage is the best way to get the most out of every session.   

2)  Understand that you're doing something important for yourself. 

Yes massage will relieve stress, loosen muscles, improve circulation, and all that other good stuff.  But the greatest side-effect of massage is mental.  There is something very satisfying about allowing ourselves to be cared for by another person.  Massage is the only activity that offers a sense of accomplishment after doing NOTHING!  We can then take those positive feelings and use them to effectively deal with the challenging parts of our lives.  It's an amazing return on your investment. 

3)  Trying to relax defeats the purpose. 

Don't worry about whether or not you're relaxing.  In general it takes about 15 minutes for a client to ease into a session and let go of whatever they happen to be thinking about.  If you're a normally tense person you may benefit from deep breathing  or visualization techniques.  Talk to your MT so they can adapt the session to suit your needs.  Aromatherapy is a great option for those who have a tough time relaxing since many essential oils have sedative qualities. 

4)  Think value over price. 

There is a huge variance in massage rates and in can be confusing for clients.  I have seen Swedish massage offered at $35/hour up to $120/hour.  I've been a massage therapist for 8 years as well as a regular consumer of spa and wellness services.  Great service isn't always the most expensive, but cheap service is never consistently great.  With so little time to devote to massage it's very important to make the most out of every dollar you spend.  Anything less than the results you want is really a waste of your time and money.   

5)  Massage Therapists do not care. . .

. .  .about your unshaved legs, back hair, lack of pedicure, bald spots, cellulite, or the extra pounds around your waist.  We also do not care about your perfectly sculpted abs, glutes, and biceps.  We want to connect and work with a whole person, not just a body.  Being self-conscious inhibits relaxation.  It's likely that your MT has worked on hundreds if not thousands of different bodies.  There isn't much that will disgust or impress, it's just part of the job. 


Remember there are 8,760 hours in a year. Are you really too busy to take 12 for yourself?
Massage once a month, the easiest way to look better, feel better, and live better.