Your massage session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music will be played to help you relax. You will lie on a table especially designed for your comfort.
Most massage techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, you decide what amount of clothing you prefer to wear for your own comfort.
You and the practitioner will discuss the desired outcome of your session. This will determine which parts of your body require massage. A typical full body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck and shoulders. You will not be touched on or near your genitals (male or female) or breasts (female).
A light oil will be used so that your muscles can be worked on without causing excessive friction to the skin. The oils used are readily absorbed into the skin and will further hydrate the skin.
Your Swedish massage will start with broad, flowing strokes which will help to calm your nervous system and relax exterior muscle tension. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax specific areas and relieve areas of muscular tension. You should communicate immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken. Massage is most effective when your body is not resisting.
The average full-body massage or bodywork session lasts approximately one hour. A half-hour appointment only allows time for a partial massage session, such as neck and shoulders, or legs and feet. Many people prefer a one hour session for optimal relaxation You should plan to allow relaxation time prior to and after the session. Hot tubs, steam baths, and saunas can assist in the relaxation process.
What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?
Make yourself comfortable. The practitioner will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm). Many people just close their eyes and completely relax. Others like to talk during their massage or bodywork Feel free to ask questions about massage in general or about the particular technique you are receiving.
Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days.
Massage can help release chronic muscular tension and pain, improve circulation, increase joint flexibility, reduce mental and physical fatigue and stress, promote faster healing of injured muscular tissue, improve posture, and reduce blood pressure.
Are there any medical conditions that would make massage inadvisable?
Before you begin your session, the practitioner will ask some general health questions. It is very important that you inform the practitioner of any health problems or medications you are taking. If you are under a doctors care, it is strongly advised that you receive a written recommendation for massage prior to any session.