If you’re like many people, the thought of getting a massage probably sounds fantastic on every level. After all, what could be more relaxing than someone rubbing your body for an hour or so? If you’re like most people, though, you might not be so great at preparing for a massage. You know...things like being sure to set aside enough time beforehand to get undressed and dressed again comfortably and conveniently, as well as making sure that the space where you’ll be getting the massage is private and quiet enough for the experience to be truly relaxing. In other words: Maybe you need to start thinking about a massage much earlier than when you actually book it. But don’t worry; we’ve got plenty of great ideas and suggestions here that should help make things easier for you in the future.

Know What You Want to Get Out of Your Massage

If you know what you want out of your massage and what you want to get out of it, it’s much easier to prepare for it and get everything you need out of it. This will include things like: - What kind of massage are you getting? What is the massage therapist’s speciality? - What type of oil or lotion will be used? - What is the optimal amount of time for the massage? - What kind of music or sounds will be played during the massage? Knowing the answers to these questions beforehand will make it much easier for you to get the most out of your massage.

Be Sure to Manage Your Expectations

As we just mentioned, it’s really important to be sure to manage your expectations. This means being ready for the fact that your massage isn’t going to be a full-on spa experience, for example. It’s important not to expect that a massage therapist is going to be like a masseur at a fancy spa, for example. - You might not be able to get the massage exactly when you want it, or exactly how you want it. - You might not be able to relax as much as you want to. - You might not be able to turn off all the lights in the room. The fact is that massage therapists have to work in all kinds of places, with all kinds of people, and have to be able to do so as quickly and efficiently as possible. You might have to be a little patient and flexible to get what you want. But you should also be aware of these differences and ready to accept them.

Be Comfortable During the Massage

Massages are meant to be extremely relaxing and therapeutic for your body, but if you aren’t comfortable throughout the massage, it won’t be very effective. Here are a few tips on how to be comfortable and relaxed during your massage: - Make sure to hydrate yourself before the massage. Drinking water before and during the massage will help you stay hydrated and will make you more comfortable. - Be sure to get your massage on a comfortable surface. If you’re getting a massage on a table, make sure it has enough padding and support. - Don’t be afraid to speak up if you’re uncomfortable. Your massage therapist will likely notice this, but if you say something about it, they will be able to help you more quickly. - Try to clear your mind and focus on your breathing. This will help you stay relaxed and focused on the sensations of the massage instead of being hyper-aware of everything else. - Stay hydrated during the massage and afterwards. The more hydrated you are, the better you’ll feel.

Set Up The Right Environment for You

This one applies mostly to those who are getting a massage in a professional setting. If you’re going to a massage therapist’s office, for example, you should try to set the environment as much as possible. Here are a few suggestions on how to do this: - Make sure that you have at least a little bit of privacy. Even if the door to the massage room is closed, try to turn off the lights or put a blind or curtain over the window to make the room a little darker. - Make sure that the room is quiet enough. If you can’t turn off all the lights, try to use a white noise machine or app to help drown out outside noises. - Bring a water bottle with you and drink water before, during, and after your massage. Hydrating yourself will help you stay relaxed and focused.

Take Advantage of the Pre-Massage Shower

While you don’t necessarily have to take a shower before a massage, it is recommended that you take a shower before the massage. This will help you be more relaxed and clean. Plus, most massage therapists will ask that you take a shower before the massage anyway. So, why not get it out of the way? Plus, if you take a warm shower before the massage, you’ll activate your parasympathetic nervous system and help yourself relax and focus even more during the massage. If you’re getting a massage on your back or legs, you might want to consider getting a leg and foot massage before the massage. This will help you relax even more and open up your energy channels and blood flow more, which will make the massage even more effective.

Bottom line

Getting a massage is a great way to relax, unwind, and get rid of tension in your muscles and mind. It is important to prepare for your massage so that you can get the most out of it. Follow these tips and you will be ready to fully relax and enjoy your massage experience.