Stop Stressing About De-stressing: A Guide to Your First Massage

Intrigued by the idea of a massage but lacking the confidence to get one? You’re not alone. Most people who never try massages don’t avoid them because they’re anxious about a stranger touching them, but because there’s a lot of uncertainty around what to expect. What type of massage is best? Will it be painful? Do you need to be naked? Massages are meant to de-stress you, but these unanswered questions have the opposite effect.

So, to help give you the confidence to put on a towel rather than throw it in, this guide covers all the common concerns first-timers have about massages. You’ll learn about the benefits of a massage, common types of massage, how to book one, how to prepare, and what to expect once you’re on the table. By the end, you’ll have a newfound confidence to go with your soon-to-be stress-free body.

The Health Benefits of Massage

If you’re curious about massage, then you’re probably somewhat familiar with some of the benefits already, like “loosening up” tight or sore muscles. While it’s certainly true that massages can do this, there’s a common misconception that they offer only temporary relief. But in reality, they have benefits that extend long beyond your session. The release of tension and reduction in aches and pains can last for hours or even days afterwards. But there’s more.

Studies have shown that massages directly impact the parasympathetic nervous system, which controls your body’s fight or flight response. In our busy modern world, this is almost constantly engaged. A massage can switch it off, restoring you to a state of lasting, meditative calm. Regular sessions have also been shown to improve circulation, boost the immune system, and help you catch deeper sleep.

Popular Types of Massage

You’ve probably heard of a variety of different massage types, like Swedish, Thai, deep tissue or Shiatsu. All of these offer the benefits described above to some degree, but they get there in different ways. Swedish and deep tissue massages, for instance, revolve around rubbing the muscles to relieve tension, whereas Thai and Shiatsu massages involve stretching and the manipulation of specific pressure points within the body.

The type of massage you choose will determine whether the massage is “painful.” Thai and deep tissue massages are sometimes described this way, although a better word would probably be “intense.” They’re not painful per se, but the pressure the masseuse applies can be uncomfortable. Many beginners like Swedish massages, which are meant to be soothing, while Shiatsu massages can be very gentle or intense depending on your preference.

How to Find a Trusted Therapist

As a nervous first-timer, it’s best to start your search for a massage therapist online. Even if you plan to go to their clinic rather than have them come to your home, it’s still good to start with a quick web search. This is always a common concern about walking into massage parlours: the fear that you may end up in an establishment that offers erotic massages instead.

On the street, these can be hard to distinguish from real massage shopfronts. Online, however, you won’t find them unless you search for something specific, like “brothel massage near me.” Search instead for the type of massage you do want, and click on some of the results to see if the practitioners hold licences and certificates. Good massage therapists are also always ready to put your mind at ease, so don’t be afraid to ask questions.

How to Prepare Before Your Massage

There’s nothing specific that you need to do before your massage; it’s really all about what makes you comfortable. However, here are some good guidelines to follow. The first is to shower at home beforehand. Even if you don’t plan to completely strip off (more on that later), knowing that your body is clean before somebody starts touching will stop you feeling self-conscious. It’s also smart to hydrate so you’re not distracted by thirst.

Eating something will help you avoid feeling hungry, but eat light. If you’re going to be lying on your stomach for a while, having a heavy meal inside will feel uncomfortable. Just before the massage itself, you’ll usually get the chance to chat with the therapist. This is the time to inform them of your preferences, and you should also mention if you’re feeling nervous. Experienced therapists will know how to put you at ease.

What Happens Once You’re Inside

When you arrive at your massage appointment, you may be given some short forms to fill out. Once they’re done, you’ll be taken to a private room, which is where you can discuss your needs and concerns with the therapist. They’ll then leave so that you can get undressed to a level you’re comfortable with. The majority of people leave underwear on, and you’ll have a towel or sheet to drape over you.

Once undressed, lie down on the table and put the sheet or towel on. Most massages start from the back, so lie on your front unless you’ve been told otherwise. The therapist will knock before they come back in to make sure you are ready. After that, the massage will begin. Feel free to let your masseuse know if they are applying too little pressure or too much.

Communication and Boundaries

Regardless of what type of massage you choose, the outcome at the end of the day should be your relaxation. If something is making you uncomfortable, even if it is a small detail like the temperature or background music, don’t be afraid to speak up. Massages are meant to be a personalised service, and your therapist will be happy to make adjustments for you.

It is also important to remember that if you feel uneasy and can’t relax, you can end the session at any time.

After Your Massage

After your massage, you’ll likely feel calmer, lighter and looser. A small amount of soreness or tingling is usual with intense types of massage, but this doesn’t last long. With a qualified therapist, side effects are extremely unlikely, especially with simple, soothing massages like Swedish ones. It is advisable to hydrate yourself afterwards, as massages release metabolic waste, which then needs to be flushed out of your body.

If you want to prolong the sense of lightness and muscle relaxation after your massage, you should also avoid strenuous physical activities. The sense of deep calm usually lasts considerably longer, but it’s best not to immediately return to a stressful job if you can help it. Take some time to reflect on your experience and think about the areas and techniques that helped you most. Then, you can request them next time.

Conclusion

As a highly effective treatment with practically no side effects, it’s no wonder massage has been practiced around the world for centuries. What’s more, practical benefits are available to all, but sadly, many are put off because many details about massage are kept private. While it’s right that privacy is important in massage, it leaves some people with a lot of unanswered questions. Often, that puts them off trying it altogether.

Hopefully, this article has addressed many of those questions and concerns, giving you the confidence to take charge of your relaxation.