What Your Therapist Wants You To Know

What questions do you have?
Ask anonymously here: https://ask.fm/LoDoMassageStudio
 

"Crying in a session is totally normal and completely welcome.”

We all know that massages can relieve muscle tension, but it also relieves emotional tension and stress. It's completely normal to shed a tear or two during your massage and your therapist doesn't mind. So, don't think you're crazy because you are not alone: “The limbic system in our brain controls our emotions, responses to stimuli, behavior and memories,” says Amy Olthoff, Spa Director of Spa Nalai at the Park Hyatt New York. “When the nerve endings in our tissues are stimulated, it’s not uncommon that this releases trapped emotional memories, even if you may not feel a sense of trauma or sadness."

"Hydration. If you're not properly hydrated, your body can be more sensitive during treatment. You may also feel sickly afterwards."

If you ever had a massage, you’ll remember your therapist telling you to stay hydrated. Kneading and working muscles gets fluids pumping out of your tissue and into your circulatory system, where it heads towards your kidneys.

First off, massages are dehydrating. Kneading and working muscle gets fluid pumping out of the soft tissue and into your circulatory system, where it heads toward your kidneys. That’s why many people have to pee right after a massage. Also, muscle tension can cause restricted circulation, which inhibits the ability for your body to flush out waste. So drink up!

"Showering before your massage is really appreciated.”

This one is more important than you think! Think about it, you and your therapist are in a tiny room for at least an hour. For example, if your getting a massage after working out, make sure you rinse off before getting your massage. Both of our studios have showers, so feel free to come early and take a quick shower before your appointment.

"For female clients... we really don't care if you forgot to shave your legs or don't shave them at all.”

It happens and don’t feel bad or embarrassed about not shaving your legs. “Once I had a female client and she said, ‘I’m so sorry I haven’t shaved in like 3 days.’ I laughed. Men don’t typically shave their legs at all (unless he is a competitive  swimmer). Your therapist is happy to work on your legs.

"Massages are good for your health and is not just a luxury. It is part of a self care routine that will help you connect to your body and mind.”

Massage therapy is beneficial for everyone and shouldn't be seen on as a luxury. Getting massages regularly can help prevent serious medical issues, which will cost much more than a massage every month. There are tons of reasons to get a massage. Massage therapy improves circulation, relieves stress, relaxes tight muscles, reduces inflammation, improves joint mobility, increases energy, lowers blood pressure, improves posture, and so much more.