Things you might not know about getting bodywork

Sometimes things pop up during conversations with clients that I realize everyone could benefit to hear. Things that might concern some people, and maybe some questions that linger but are never said out loud. I thought I'd share some of these below, so you can make sure you get the best massage that targets
exactly what you're looking for!

 1. You can ask for exactly what you want.

The foundation of a very good massage is intuition and sensation. If I'm going over a particular part of your back and it feels amazing, feel free to advocate your desire for more time in said area. This also communicates to the Massage Therapist that there is something there worth investigating. And if you'd rather just lay there, pass out and let the LMT work their magic, that is just as well!

2. NSAIDS or Cannabis helps with sensitivity.

If you feel like you need deeper bodywork to get rid of the kinks in your muscles but don't feel like you can withstand the pressure, you can take over the counter pain relievers or any form of Cannabis medicine of your choice (if it is legal in your state, of course). These alternatives help you focus on your massage and NOT on your pain.

3. Breathing is your best friend!

It can feel odd to be quite literally in someone else's hands, and there will be moments when you want to shrink and guard yourself against any form of discomfort (as long as it's not too jarring) and tense up while the Massage Therapist is working on you. People will often hold their breath when they feel anxious or a sensitive area is being addressed. In these moments, refocus your attention on your breathing and witness how the breath truly impacts the release of dense muscle tissue.

4. Scheduling bodywork in advance is a good motivator.

There is no obligation to do this, however massage is cumulative and its benefits are felt more broadly when your body is primed for wear and tear. I've met clients in various states of chronic stress, acute injury and just in plain ol' bad shape. Getting a massage on a more regular schedule will prove to you how powerful it is in helping you feel like you can take on more strain with confidence and ease.