What a Typical Session Looks Like
A typical massage therapy session is usually between 70 - 90 minutes but can vary depending on your personal preference. Before your massage begins you will have a brief consultation with the massage therapist and review any symptoms, medical history, and your lifestyle. The massage therapist will suggest how to position yourself on the massage table. You will undress to your comfort level after the therapist has left the room, get on the table and cover yourself. Please stay under the sheets for the duration of the massage. The massage therapist will be respectful of your privacy and undrape only the area that is the focus of their work at that moment.
When you are ready the massage therapist will re-enter the room and make sure you are comfortable. Depending on your preference (essential oils, CBD) the therapist will undrape one part and apply oil, lotion or massage gel. A full body massage usually covers the entire back, gluteals, legs and arms (back and front), feet and hands, pectorals, neck, face and head. However, depending on the individual, the therapist may spend additional time and attention on a specific area using a variety of therapeutic techniques.
You will get the most out of your massage by communicating with your massage therapist. Please communicate with your therapist any issues of soreness, tenderness, pain, tension and always let the therapist know if they need to alter the amount of pressure they are using. Massage therapy shouldn't hurt. Occasionally when the massage therapist applies pressure directly over a "knot" or trigger point the level of sensation will change - please let the therapist know if it is too much.
Afterwards, the massage therapist will leave the room so that you can dress. You may want to stay on the table a little longer and savor the deep relaxation and feelings of space and length in your body. Take your time getting up. When you are ready, come to a sitting position slowly and just sit for a minute so you adjust to being upright. When you are ready, dress and the therapist will meet you as you exit the room.
Pre-Massage: How to Prepare
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Hydrate well in advance of your massage appointment
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Don't eat a heavy meal before your massage
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If it is your first time arrive 15 minutes early for intake
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Take a few minutes of quiet time for yourself before your massage
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Always let the massage therapist know if there have been any medical or health related changes (medicine, injuries, blood pressure, etc.)
Post-Massage: What to Expect
After a massage most people feel calm and relaxed. Try to maintain your relaxed state by not doing too much physical exertion afterwards and drink a lot of water to keep your body hydrated. Occasionally, people feel some soreness or achiness the next day. This feeling shouldn't last, but please make note and call your massage therapist if you are concerned.
What to Expect
There are three principles that Beth's practice at Imagine Wellness is rooted in:
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To see the person as a whole.
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To know that the location of pain is not always the source.
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To work with soft tissue and its response to intentional touch.
