Issue link: http://www.bodysensemagazinedigital.com/i/1411028
massagetherapy.com—your resource for all things bodywork 11 to my chest to stretch my low back after turning over mid-session. Several of my clients ask for a sip of water or to blow their nose after turning over. (Just like you would ask your massage therapist to lower the heat on the table warmer or rearrange an uncomfortable bolster, don't be afraid to ask your practitioner for assistance with getting you tissue or a glass of water.) You may also find using your breathing technique multiple times throughout the session is beneficial. MENTAL AID I recommend you set an intention for each session and create a meaningful phrase or mantra that reflects that intention. If your mind is racing with thoughts of your to-do list or a text message you forgot to reply to before the session started, bring your attention back to your intention and mantra. Some of my clients prefer using a visual image instead of a verbal mantra—a favorite memory or relaxing landscape they picture in their mind to re-center wandering thoughts. POST-SESSION Just like a runner is tired and jubilant after they cross their 5k finish line, you may feel happily tired after your bodywork session. And, just like a runner stretches and eats healthy food post-race, you want to do the same to extend the benefits of the therapeutic work you just received. EAT HEALTHY FOOD Use your bodywork session as the impetus for a self-care night. I often tell my clients who have evening sessions that their post-session schedule should include only healthy food and relaxation, if possible. One of my clients always orders to-go food from a local restaurant to bring home with her while another schedules her massage appointments on her husband's night to cook. Plan ahead so that healthy food options are as easy as possible. SOAK OR LET IT SINK IN There are two schools of thought on post-session hydrotherapy. Some clients love soaking in a warm tub or jacuzzi after a session to let the warm water work its magic on their muscles, while others prefer to let the massage lotion and aromatherapy oils stay on their skin as long as possible. Pick the self-care practice that feels best for you. STRETCH AGAIN Do a gentle stretching routine that evening before bed. Not only can it extend the benefits of the physical work of your massage session, but it's also a wonderful reminder of how much better your body feels—and moves—after your session as compared to before. I like to do a 15–20-minute evening-centered yoga flow. LIE DOWN EARLY Since you're probably still feeling relaxed and slightly tired from your session (and all that healthy food and gentle stretching), this is the perfect opportunity to go to bed a bit early and practice all of the healthy sleep tips you know, including no electronic devices, a dark room, and a cool temperature. There are a lot of things we can do as clients to help enhance the good work we're receiving in the treatment room. I hope these pre-, mid-, and post-session self-care tips help you enhance and extend the benefits of your next massage therapy or bodywork session. Kristin Coverly is a licensed massage therapist, educator, and director of professional education at Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals. She's known the joy of working with massage clients for over 20 years. Contact her at kristin@abmp.com. Massage is a physical activity, and it helps to prepare your body accordingly.