It was once thought of as a frivolous luxury for the rich, but now people everywhere are learning that getting the occasional massage from a professional therapist can have wonderful benefits for both body and mind. But what should you expect from your therapist when you walk into a massage center or spa?
Steven Stone first encountered the healing potential of massage following a surfing injury. After spending several years pursuing an acting career, Stone decided to switch gears and become a certified massage therapist. He has studied at the California Healing Arts College and currently works at a day spa called Spoiled: A Day Spa. Here he lists what beginners should expect during a session with a professional massage therapist:
- Trust. According to Stone, the most important thing that you should look for in a massage therapist is someone you can trust. If you don't have complete trust in the person working on your muscles, then you're not going to be able to relax. If you can't relax, then you'll essentially be working against your therapist, and you won't be getting the maximum benefits from the massage.
- Health. The therapist should ask you a lot of questions about your own health. A professional will want to know if you have any accidents or injuries, or if you have any sore or tight spots that are bothering you.
- Professionalism. Whenever you're getting a massage you should expect your therapist to be very professional. The therapist should always step out of the room so you can get undressed or dressed, and the sheet or the towel should always be tucked and protecting your modesty at all times.
- Comfort. Your personal comfort is also one of the keys to a beneficial massage. You should just make sure that you're not hungry, but you don't want to be overly full either. You don't want to be thirsty, but you also don't want to drink so much water that you have to leave the table to use the restroom.
If you are relaxed and comfortable at all times, you'll be able to truly enjoy your massage, and your therapist will be bale to give you an experience that your body will thank you for.
For more information on massage, visit a massage therapist in your area or check out the following organizations and websites:
Spoiled: a Day Spa
www.spoiledadayspa.com
Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals
www.abmp.com
American Massage Therapy Association
www.amtamassage.org
Massage Direct
www.massagedirect.com
Massage Network
massagenetwork.com
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