Most people feel very relaxed. Some experi-
ence freedom from long-term aches and pains
developed from tension or repetitive activity.
After an initial period of feeling slowed down,
people often experience increased energy,
heightened awareness, and greater productivity,
which can last for days. Since toxins are released
from your soft tissues during a massage, it is rec-
ommended you drink plenty of water afterward.
What Are The Benefits Of Massage And Bodywork?
Massage and bodywork can help release
chronic muscular tension and pain, improve cir-
culation, increase joint flexibility, reduce mental
and physical fatigue and stress, promote faster
healing of injured muscular tissue, improve pos-
ture, and reduce blood pressure. Massage and
bodywork are also known to promote better
sleep, improve concentration, reduce anxiety,
and create an overall sense of well-being.
Are There Any Medical Conditions That Would Make Massage Or
Bodywork Inadvisable?
Yes. That’s why it’s imperative that before you
begin your session, the practitioner ask general
health questions. It is very important that you
inform the practitioner of any health problems
or medications you are taking. If you are under a
doctor’s care, it is strongly advised that you
receive a written recommendation for massage
or bodywork prior to any session. Many practi-
tioners may require a recommendation or
approval from your doctor.
Will I Be Covered During The Session?
You will be properly draped at all times to keep
you warm and comfortable. Only the area being
worked on will be exposed.
What Parts Of My Body Will Be Massaged?
You and the practitioner will discuss the
desired outcome of your session. This will deter-
mine which parts of your body require massage.
A typical full-body session will include work on
your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and
shoulders. You will not be touched on or near
your genitals (male or female) or breasts (female).
Will Lubricant Be Used?
A light oil or lotion may be used to permit your
muscles to be worked on without causing exces-
sive friction to the skin. The lubricants used should
hydrate the skin and be readily absorbed.
What Will the Massage Or Bodywork Feel Like?
It depends on the techniques used. In a gener-
al Swedish massage, your session may start with
broad, flowing strokes that will help to calm
your nervous system and ease exterior muscle
tension. As your body unwinds, pressure will
gradually be increased to relax and relieve spe-
cific areas of muscular tension. You should com-
municate with your practitioner immediately if
you feel any discomfort so that another approach
may be taken. Massage and bodywork are most
effective when your body is not resisting.
Are There Different Kinds Of Massage And Bodywork?
There are numerous types of massage and body-
work. Various techniques utilize different strokes,
including basic rubbing strokes, rocking move-
ment, posture and movement reeducation, appli-
cation of pressure to specific points, and more.
Ask the practitioner about the methods she uses.
How Long Will The Session Last?
The average full-body massage or bodywork ses-
sion lasts approximately one hour. A half-hour
appointment only allows time for a partial mas-
sage session, for instance the neck and shoulders,
back, or legs and feet. Many people prefer a sixty-
to-ninty-minute session for optimal relaxation.
Always allow relaxation time prior to and after
the session. Hot tubs, steam baths, and saunas can
assist in the relaxation process.
What Should I Do During The Massage Or Bodywork Session?
Make yourself comfortable. The practitioner
will either gently move you or tell you what is
needed throughout the session (such as lifting
your arm). Many people just close their eyes and
completely relax. Others like to talk during their
session. Feel free to ask the practitioner questions
about massage and bodywork in general or about
the particular technique you are receiving.
Where Will My Massage or Bodywork Session Take Place?
Your massage or bodywork session will take
place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft
music may be played to help you relax. You will
lie on a table especially designed for your comfort.
Who Will Perform The Massage Or Bodywork?
Your session will be conducted by a profession-
al who has received proper training, often in a
variety of techniques. Some massage and body-
work practitioners are licensed by the state, while
others are locally regulated. Although no two
massages are exactly alike, you may request a cer-
tain technique or modality. You may also request
your preference as to a male or female therapist.
Must I Be Completely Undressed?
Most massage and bodywork techniques are tra-
ditionally performed with the client unclothed;
however, you may decide what amount of cloth-
ing you prefer to wear for your own comfort. You
will be properly draped during the session.
Will The Practitioner Be Present When I Disrobe?
The practitioner will leave the room while you
undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself
with a clean sheet or towel.
What To Expect during a massage or bodywork session Compliments Of: ©2008
Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals member
