How to prepare for a massage

Swedish massage and other types of massages are generally used to treat physical pain and dysfunction or to maintain overall physical health and stress levels.

Remedial massage and myotherapy can help rehabilitate injuries, dysfunction and postural issues. Deep tissue massage is also an option, better suited to those feeling a little stiff or sore or for anyone just wanting a firm massage. Additionally, one may also consider integrative massage, which is a treatment that involves the integration of therapy techniques from a number of different modalities including massage, somatic therapy, and bodywork techniques.

If you’ve never had a massage therapy before, you might be worrying that there are things you need to do to prepare for your massage. But you’d be wrong to worry. 

There are a few dos and don’ts to consider when preparing for a massage, but they’re mostly to make you comfortable during your treatment.

Here’s how to prepare for a massage

Hydrate. It’s important to drink lots of water both before and after your massage. Massage increases your blood circulation, your range of motion and your breathing. This helps your body work optimally, but to do this your body needs water, which is why hydration is an essential part of preparing for a massage. 

Eating. Can I eat before my massage? Absolutely. Eating beforehand is okay so your tummy isn’t rumbling through your treatment. But it’s best to try and leave at least an hour in between for your own comfort. The idea is for you to be as comfortable as you can so you can relax.

Personal Hygiene. We appreciate basic personal hygiene including wearing deodorant.

Do I need to shave my legs? No, not at all. Our therapists are used to treating people from all walks of life, and shaving your legs or any other part of your body is not something you need to do or worry about.

Showering. We know life can get in the way, and if you’re getting your massage after work, you may not have time to go home and shower, but if it is possible to shower on the day of your massage, please do, especially if you have been exercising that day. 

Exercise. If you want to work out on the day of your massage, you can. It’s best to work out before your massage rather than after. Much like eating, it’s best to leave an hour or so between finishing your workout and getting your massage. 

Timing. Please arrive a little before your appointment. There’s likely to be a form for you to fill out, you won’t arrive flustered, and you’ve got more chance of being relaxed before going into your massage. 

Clothing. Your therapist will advise you when you get into the room that you can remove your clothing if you feel comfortable doing so. You do not have to get naked or strip down if you don’t want to. Our therapists are great at manoeuvring you and keeping you covered. You may want to bring comfortable loose clothing for afterwards. 

It’s also ideal to empty your bladder beforehand so you don’t need to nip out and disturb your relaxation through the massage. But if you do, it’s okay. We don’t mind. 

When you arrive at your appointment, you’ll need to advise if you have any allergies, but it’s worth mentioning to your therapist before you start too. 

And that’s it! That’s how to prepare for a massage. There isn’t much to do before your massage. You can come as you are; just make sure you haven’t recently eaten or worked out.

Aftercare

There is no particular aftercare for massage. You can ride the zen for as long as you want. If you are sore, a bath with Epsom salts (which you can pick up at your local pharmacy) can help relieve that.