How to get the most out of massage therapy

People who are new to massage therapy, or looking to try to incorporate regular massage sessions into their schedules, ask how often someone should get a massage. The answer is different depending on the client, their lifestyle, their finances, their schedule, and what they would like to achieve through massage. For some, weekly massage therapy helps them stay as active as they want to be, decreases the chance of injury for athletes, and is an integral piece of their self-care. I have a few clients who have a "trouble area" on their body such as shoulders, lower back, neck and even a half-hour once per week to target that area keeps them pain-free. Others lead such stressful and hectic lifestyles with so much activity, that they use massage twice per week, or a longer session weekly to help keep the stress level at bay.

Many people feel that bimonthly massages allow them to have the all-important downtime in their lives, while also keeping their budget in mind. Massage even once per month can go a long way towards learning to relax, reconnecting with your body, and hitting the reset button on your stress level.

When I was in massage school and giving and receiving some sort of bodywork on a daily basis, I felt absolutely amazing. My skin was clear, I was full of energy, I was fully in tune with my body, pain-free, and inspired to exercise daily. My instructors said at the time that we would all look back to the daily massage with longing as we got further and further from school, and boy were they right! Now I make sure to get bodywork at least twice a month, and more often if I feel I'm having any pain, extra stress, or am feeling run down.

I feel that no amount of massage is too much, and that any amount is wonderful. I see immediate change for clients who can only make it in once every couple of months as soon as they get off the table. The fantastic part about committing to regular massage is realizing how that feeling can be extended, how much better you really can feel on an ongoing basis with regular self-care, including massage therapy.

No matter how often you receive massage therapy, here are some tips to extend the positive impact and get the most out of your sessions:

• Find a therapist you trust and form a relationship.
  When a therapist is familiar with your goals, your body, and your health history, you will find yourself more open to the work and the therapist more successful in treating you.
  
  
• Communicate with your therapist.
  Let your massage therapist know what you would like to achieve from your session. During the massage, report any discomfort, whether it is from the massage or anything else -- room temperature, music volume, lighting, etc. Feel free to give feedback on the amount of pressure, speed of movement, etc. Don't be shy -- it is your time.
  
  
• Don’t be afraid to discuss any apprehensions or concerns.
  As massage therapists, we are dedicated to easing your mind and making you as comfortable as possible.
  
  
• Allow yourself plenty of time to get to your appointments.
  If you arrive in a frenzied, rushed state, it will take longer to relax, so being on time will help you get the most of your time.
  
  
• Speak or don't speak; it's your choice.
  Some people find chatting to be relaxing, others get the most from silence. Our jobs as therapists are to take our cues from our clients, so do not feel like you need to fill an awkward silence or entertain your therapist. If you would like to enjoy your massage quietly, that is a perfectly appropriate thing to say to your therapist. Or if you'd like to talk about what you're experiencing, ask questions about the session, or anything else, feel free to do so.
  
  
• Breathe.
  Tightening or holding your breath is counterproductive, so be sure to breathe deeply and let your therapist know if you're feeling discomfort that prevents you from long, deep, regular breathing.
  
  
• Try to schedule some quiet time after your massage.
  To have the most benefit, it's great not to have to run back to work or errands as soon as you get off the table. Some quiet time, a hot bath, and an earlier bedtime will help your body absorb the results.
  
  
• Drink plenty of water.
  
  
• Massage works best over time.
  The therapeutic effects of massage are cumulative, so the more often you get a massage, the better you will feel and the more quickly your body will respond. Relaxation is a skill and you will get better and better at it the more you practice!
  

For more about the bodywork sessions and rates, please visit Jaya Bodywork's full website.

If you pre-pay for five massage sessions, I will give you the sixth one free as an incentive to add regular sessions into your life. You WILL feel the difference!