What to Expect for your first Massage
"Treat yourself to the healing sensation of a Massage."

Does this sound like you?


You're job has you stressed out. Your shoulders are like rocks. You feel so jumpy you could crawl out of your own skin. Wouldn't it be wonderful if someone could smooth away your tension with the touch of his or her hands? Someone probably can. Research shows that the simple kneading and stroking of a good massage can make a big difference in your mental and physical health. Just one session can reduce stress and help you get a good night's sleep. Regular sessions may ease chronic pain, speed recovery from many sports injuries, make your muscles more supple, and improve concentration.

Medically speaking...


Researchers believe that massage works in at least three ways. For starters, all that kneading and stroking allows your muscles to relax, which sends a message to your brain to produce fewer stress hormones; it also improves blood flow to the brain. The combination, studies show, results in a feeling of relaxed alertness. Massage may ease chronic pain as well, perhaps, researchers speculate, by triggering the release of enkephalins, the body's natural painkillers. Massage isn't just for adults, either. A groundbreaking study showed that when trained parents gave their hospitalized, premature babies a firm, 15-minute massage three times a day, the babies gained weight more quickly and went home earlier than unrubbed preemies. Massage is generally quite safe, but be sure you let your therapist know if there are any areas of your body that are especially tense or tender. It's also a good idea to talk to your doctor about medical conditions that might rule out a massage, including high blood pressure (a massage can briefly cause your blood pressure to rise) and a history of blood clots.

Hands-on Healing What to expect.


At the start of a massage your therapist will brief you on what to expect, ask about any particular problems you're having and discuss the type of massage you'd prefer. Then he/she will leave the room for a few minutes so you can undress to your level of comfort. Next, you'll lie on the massage table underneath the sheets. After a few minutes, the therapist will knock on the door to see if you're ready. Your massage therapists will use a premium oil or lotion to reduce the friction between your skin and their hands. They will also play soft music and turn down the lights or burn candles to help you relax if you wish. You will also get to choose which Aromatherapy scent you'd like. During the massage itself, don't be afraid to speak up if your therapist is using too much or too little pressure. It's their job to relax you completely. At the end of the session, the therapist will leave the room so you can get dressed. It's recommended that you use the restroom before your massage and drink plenty of water afterwards. A nice hot bath and a nap is the perfect way to top off a massage.