New to massage? We understand the trepidation you may experience when considering booking a massage for the first time. After all, thinking about being in any stage of undress with a stranger does not exactly calm most people. However, understanding just what your massage session entails will help you relax; and a relaxed, calm and open-minded client is one that is more likely to walk away with a satisfying experience. That being said, here are just a few things you should know before your first massage session:

  • Hydration is important – Make sure to drink plenty of water for a few days prior to your massage. The hydration will help prepare your muscles for the manipulation that they are about to endure. Drinking lots of water afterwards also helps in muscle recovery and flushes released toxins from the body.
  • Be forthcoming with your health history – Your massage therapist needs to know as much about your health history as possible. Though most individuals can enjoy the pampering benefits of a massage without issue, some with serious health concern should avoid certain techniques used or maybe avoid massage altogether. Make sure to let your therapist know of any areas you experience pain or injury.
  • Don’t eat prior to your session – You’ll feel more comfortable on the table without a full gut and you’re less likely to experience embarrassing “digestive rumblings” when certain muscle groups are manipulated.
  • Get there early – Give your self time to fill out paperwork and relax in order to take full advantage of your session.
  • Get comfortable – Though all massage therapists will instruct you to undress to the level that you feel comfortable with, understand that the more clothing you leave on, the less effective your session will be; simply because waistbands and bra straps make it difficult for your therapist to access those areas that may benefit from their techniques the most. If you are unwilling to remove certain items of clothing, understand that you’re getting an abbreviated session that ties your therapist’s hands. If you are anxious about your level of undress, a in-home mobile massage may be the best fit for you.
  • Remember to breathe – Deep breathing helps you relax. If the sensitivity of a certain area causes you to hold your breath, make sure to let your massage therapist know so that they can adjust what they are doing.

With years of athletic training and experience covering dozens of endurance sports events, two-time Ironman triathlete David Wachtel is no stranger to pain and discomfort. Tap into the resource of pain relief and physical rejuvenation that David offers to Marin County, and the rest of the Bay Area, with convenient and highly-effective therapeutic massage sessions.