So many people have found that massage therapy is one of the best ways to take care of themselves. Not only do massages help to relax your muscles and allow your bones to fall into place, making you much more comfortable, but massage therapy is also a wonderful way to relieve stress and create an overall sense of well-being. I have been a massage therapist myself since 2003, so I have put together some tips for you.
How Do I Choose a Massage Therapist?
*Do a Search
Whether you are searching for a massage therapist in Salt Lake City, the best massage Dallas, or prenatal massage spa treatments, be sure that what you search for is specific. In this day and age, searching using Google is your best bet, and super easy to do. You can search by geographic location, by specialty, by name, or by the type of place you want to find. For example, are you looking for a sports massage, chiropratic massage, or a spa massage complete with aromatherapy and hot stones? Be specific. Sometimes you can find really good deals on Groupon for massage therapy.
Once you have found what you are looking for:
*Book Your Appointment
Some therapists book their appointments online, while others continue to book via phone call. Take note on how easy or difficult the process is. If you had to leave a message, were phone calls returned quickly? Was the person on the other end courteous and helpful?
*Go Get That Massage!
Before your appointment, your massage therapist will have you fill out some paperwork. Be sure to fully disclose any medical conditions that you have, and also let them know if there are places that you are more sensitive than others. Ask them what you should do if you need more or less pressure. (Most will tell you just to speak up and say something during the massage!)
If you are uncomfortable getting totally nude for your massage, the therapist will likely understand! During your session, take notice in how they drape the sheets around you and make sure that you feel comfortable. A professional massage therapist will only uncover the parts of the body that they are working on at the time and promptly cover you back up when they are finished.
Notice about how long the therapist works on each part of your body. Speak up if you need extra attention to one area over another. Relax your body throughout the appointment so that your muscles can get worked properly. Ask questions if you have any.
*Evaluate the Results
Massage is not really a one time deal. The effects of a single massage may last hours or days, and it may also take that long to decide exactly how the massage worked on you. Is your posture different? Do your muscles feel differently? Was your tension relieved?
How much did this appointment cost you? Was it a good value? Many therapists offer coupons, discounts, free upgrades, or punch card programs to regular clients. This can make it less expensive if it becomes a long-term service you seek out.
Think about whether or not you feel the therapist was a good fit for you based on all of this. If everything checked out, you have found yourself a massage therapist! Hooray, the search is over! 🙂
If something just didn’t feel or seem quite right, start this process over again until you find JUST the right massage therapist for you. There are tons out there, so don’t settle on someone that is just okay. Go for the gold!
