Massage therapy in Hollywood, FL, is a great way to relax and alleviate many health issues. It calms your mind, reduces body pain, elevates your mood, and much more.
If you’ve never gone to a massage therapist before and aren’t sure what to expect, you may feel anxious. But there are many ways to make the session as enjoyable as possible and ensure you get the most out of it. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Communicating with Your Massage Therapist
Massage therapy is not one-size-fits-all. Each person has their own wellness concerns that the therapist must consider to provide the best treatment.
To understand your needs, your massage therapist will talk to you before your session. Take this an opportunity to tell them about any concerns or requests.
Communicating with your massage therapist may feel awkward initially. But providing feedback is normal and even expected, so don’t hesitate to speak up any time before, during, or after your appointment.
Choosing the Type of Massage Therapy
Massages come in a range of modalities and intensities. Some modalities are soft and soothing, while others are rough and intense. Some use oil to allow the therapist’s hands to glide smoothly and gently, while others don’t to apply direct pressure. Select the one that matches your preference so your massage feels just right and not too mild or harsh.
Popular Modalities
o Deep Tissue Massage
This is an intense massage involving deep pressure to relieve tension.
o Swedish Massage
This is gentler than deep tissue massage and uses oil-based lubricants to glide and knead the tissue.
o Myofascial Massage
This uses little to no lotion and engages the tissue more directly without the glide.
o Shiatsu
This form of bodywork uses the thumbs to apply pressure and is done without lotion or oil.
o Thai Massage
This works the entire body using the palms and fingers. You are fully clothed during this type of bodywork.
To learn which type of massage is best for you, consult with our licensed massage therapist. They will know which modality suits your wellness needs and preferred intensity.
Facing Up or Down
When you get a massage near Hollywood, FL, your therapist will ask you to lay face up or down so they can access the areas that need to be worked on. You will also need to flip over if you get a full-body massage.
No matter which way you’re facing, your massage therapist will make sure you feel at ease. If you feel uncomfortable in any position, let them know, and they will adjust you. They can use pillows or bolsters to reorient your body while ensuring maximum relaxation.
Maintaining Modesty
One of the biggest misgivings first-time clients have about massage therapy is nudity. But rest assured that you will be draped with a sheet during the appointment, so you can maintain a physical boundary and define which areas the therapist can and can’t touch.
Only the areas being worked on at any given time will be uncovered. Your genitals and chest will also remain under the sheet at all times.
Book Your First Appointment
Your first massage therapy session may be nerve-racking. But now that you know what to expect, you can be more prepared. Schedule your first appointment for massage therapy in Hollywood, FL, and have a great experience at every step of your massage.