Your First Visit
A look into my office space
First, breath. You’ve just booked or are looking to book a session but have no idea what to expect or if any special preparations need to be made. That’s quite alright, I’ve been there before. In fact, I didn’t have my first massage until I was in school for this. It was that first awkward experience that made me understand a trap therapists fall into. Lack of transparent communication. I hope this can put your mind at ease.
1) Before your appointment
Generally, you’re required to fill out an intake form. This form has information about you, your medical history, previous experiences with massage, and a liability waiver. Filling every aspect of the form to the best of your knowledge provides your therapist with some insight on how to effectively provide treatment.
If you’re concerned about a non-communicable skin condition (acne, psoriasis, and eczema), make note of it on the intake form and don’t worry about it. If there’s anything that contraindicates (does not allow you to receive) massage, your therapist will let you know in advance or ask that you receive approval by your doctor.
Other than that, make sure you’re not sweating and never come in under the influence of any substance.
2) Start of the appointment
When you arrive to your appointment you’ll be taken to the room where your therapist will leave, and you will be left in total confusion. I’m kidding. You’ll be brought back to the room where your session will be and asked to have a seat. This will be your opportunity to explain what brought you in for a massage and ask questions. During this process your therapist may perform a clinical assessment to gain better understanding of your areas of concern. Think of this whole interaction as conversation. While your therapist may be an expert, you’re the expert of your own body.
Once everyone feels they have their questions addressed, you will be asked to undress to your comfort level and your therapist will leave the room for a bit. *Cue dramatic music.
Despite what you might think, undressing is not necessary. In my opinion, clothing can allow someone to feel comfortable and put their mind at ease during a session. Some techniques are actually easier to perform when there’s loose clothing. Therefore, you can undress how you prefer by removing some or no articles of clothing. The clothing preferences you have will only change the techniques performed throughout the session. For example, gliding moves are not going to be done on your back over your shirt as that might be uncomfortable.
If ever you’re confused, your therapist can give you guidance on how to ideally undress for your session based off their assessment.
3) During the massage
For peoples’ first ever session, I sometimes briefly describe what I’m about to do, why I’m doing it, and what I’m going to do next as the session goes along. I’ve found that it makes the session feel predictable and integrates the client into the experience. Of course, you can always request for silence if that’s what you prefer. Basically, anything that can be modified quickly (pressure, temperature, music, talking, face cradle, blanket) can be changed to ensure your comfort.
Throughout the course of the massage please don’t hesitate to ask questions pertaining to your session. Massage therapy and the knowledge surrounding it can prove useful in understanding how your body functions. For example, knowing which muscles contribute to your shoulder pain provides a chance to learn stretches or strengthening exercises to reduce that pain.
Also, never hesitate to say if a technique is uncomfortable. Everything is done within your physical limits and pushing those limits should be done gradually. Let’s say you can only lift your arm to certain extent; we’ll work within that range until you can comfortably move beyond it.
4) After the massage
Once your session is over, your therapist will leave the room and allow you to get dressed. Take the time you need to get up and acclimated with your surroundings. You do not have to “make the bed” since the linens used will be changed and washed once you’re gone. Once you’re done, you can prop open the door and your therapist will come back in. From there, your therapist might show some stretches or techniques you can do at home to alleviate tension. Then, you can book your next session.
If necessary, your therapist can create a treatment plan based on your therapeutic needs. This may mean more frequent visits to start, which will space out as pain becomes more manageable. Or, visits will be weeks apart to assess if overall pain severity has reduced. Regardless, you’re free to book any future appointments to your discretion.
Lastly, be sure to drink plenty of water and don’t be surprised if you’re a little sore the next day.
That probably wasn’t as complicated as you thought. My primary goal is to ensure you feel comfortable and safe so you can enjoy the benefits of massage and what it can accomplish.
If there’s anything you feel was not answered, you can ask here or book a phone consultation.
