A 1-2 hour session with your therapist goes by in a hurry. However, while that session won't cure all your ills, preparing for the massage can help you maximise the benefits of the experience. Here are some tips for your next session:
Before the massage
Stay hydrated
It is important to be well hydrated before the massage so that toxins are better eliminated during the treatment.
- Drink plenty of water
- Do not drink alcohol
- Drink a cup of tea
- Avoid large amounts of caffeine
Eat light
If you are uncomfortable with your stomach rumbling during digestion, we recommend eating at least 1 hour before the massage or, if you think you will get hungry, eat a fruit that is easy to digest.
Prepare your body
If you can take a hot shower before the massage, it will help your muscles to relax. You will have to shower again after the massage to remove the excess oil, but it will be worth it.
In addition, you can do these short stretches:
1. Stand up and stretch your hands upwards. Hold for 5 seconds.
2. With your legs straight, try to touch the tips of your toes. Hold for 5 seconds.
3. In this position, swing your arms slightly to the left and to the right.
Dress comfortably
Since you'll be at home, wear something comfortable that's easy to take off and put on, and don't wear jewellery.
We recommend that you wear flip-flops that you can easily wash afterwards, and during the massage, leave them on the side of the massage table, so that you can put them on as soon as the massage is over to avoid slipping.
When the therapist arrives
The therapist will arrive with a fully disinfected massage table, clean sheets, oils and relaxing music.
Tell him where you want him to set up the massage table and while he is doing so, comment on...
- If you have epilepsy, allergies or injuries you should be aware of.
- Whether you want relaxing music or not.
- If you have a preference as to the intensity of the massage.
- If there is any area of your body where you want me to pay special attention.
- If there are any areas of your body that are more sensitive or should be avoided.
- Any doubts about the type of massage chosen.
During the massage
Concentrate on your breathing, trying to make it a deep breath.
Relax. Your therapist will know how to lift your arms or your head. He or she does not need your help.
Let your mind go and enjoy.
Tell the therapist if...
- Are you cold or hot?
- Whether you want more or less pressure.
- Whether you want to turn the music volume up or down.
- If you want me to work in another area.
It's your massage, you decide.
After the massage
Wear flip-flops
First of all, we recommend that you wear flip-flops to avoid slipping in the oil.
Again, stay hydrated
A massage gets your blood circulating and flushes out toxins. For that reason, it is important that you continue to hydrate your body with water. Caffeine can wait.
Sore? Put some ice on it
Depending on the type of massage chosen and the tension in your muscles, you may feel some temporary soreness after the massage and even slight swelling. In that case, we recommend a cold shower or cold compresses for 10-15 minutes. Avoid hot purchases.
If you have any doubts about what to expect from the massage, your Zen to Go therapist will be happy to help you.
