Issue link: http://www.bodysensemagazinedigital.com/i/1195500
www.massagetherapy.com—your resource for all things bodywork 9 choose wisely. Your therapist can guide you in your choice, and don't feel rushed to make a quick decision. During my aromatherapy massage, my therapist used a combination of techniques including long strokes (called effleurage) and kneading (petrissage). She also had a fabulous forearm stroke that seemed to hit every tight muscle in my body. Swedish massage can be slow and soothing with light pressure, quicker with more pressure, or a combination. Some therapists use firm pressure throughout the massage, but my therapist warmed my muscles first before applying pressure in a focused way. My therapist's technique for coaxing my muscles to release was fantastic, and I liked that she asked me about the amount of pressure in each area of the massage. She'd always check in with me to make sure the pressure was comfortable for that particular body part. That said, even if your therapist doesn't ask, you should never feel uncomfortable speaking up. BONUS MASSAGE During my aromatherapy massage, I was also introduced to abdominal massage by my therapist. I'd never had one, so I thought I'd try it. It felt a bit weird, but it also felt good and seemed really beneficial. Afterward, I felt my digestion speed up—not in a bad way. I just felt like she got everything moving. To perform the abdominal massage, my therapist started with wide circular strokes. Gradually, with each rotation, the circles became smaller and smaller, and light pressure was applied to my stomach. But the massage was never painful. My biggest fear was that I'd pass wind, but that didn't happen (and I was thankful, although therapists tell us this happens all the time and they don't think twice about it). FINAL THOUGHTS It was exciting to try the body wrap and the aromatherapy (I would do both again). And, since I had spa treatments and massages before, I wasn't anxious about undressing. I also knew that my therapist would take me through her massage process step by step. I was surprised by my anxiety over the body wrap, though. Sure, if I had really taken the time to think it through beforehand, I may have realized I might feel a bit restricted and claustrophobic. My anxiety reminded me that asking questions is essential when receiving new services—just to be aware of what to expect. So, here are my final tips to you—in hopes you'll be prepared for your first (or next) bodywork appointment: • No matter the type of massage you're receiving, it should feel good; it doesn't need to hurt. Even a deep tissue massage should feel good and be relaxing. If you feel pain, listen to your body, and ask your massage therapist to apply less pressure. Also, feel free to state your pressure preference before and during the massage. • Your massage therapist will engage you in as much— or as little—conversation as you wish, although your therapist will (and should) check in with you periodically about the amount of pressure being used. • If you fall asleep during your massage, don't feel embarrassed. It happens frequently! • If you feel like you've worked out the day after your massage, that's normal. Your therapist probably worked and released muscles you haven't used in a while. • Be sure to drink a lot of water after your body treatments and massage. Keeping tissues hydrated is always important. • Also, depending on the treatment you had, you might feel like a limp noodle after your massage. Plan to take it easy for an hour or two after your bodywork. • Take your time getting up from the massage table. Get your bearings before leaving the room; you could feel a bit light-headed. • Above all else, honor yourself and enjoy the experience. Lisa Bakewell is a full-time freelance writer, editor, perpetual learner, and lover of life in Chicagoland. Her areas of writing expertise span a multitude of topics that include health and wellness, travel, parenting, personal/company profiles, a plethora of "how-to" articles (her favorite!), and technology. She can be reached at lbakewell@att.net.