How can you get the MOST out of your massage?

The luckiest, in my opinion have to be the ones who experienced something I can only describe as an out of body experience, like falling into a deep meditative state. If you've ever experienced this you understand what I'm talking about. If you've never experienced this, this article is for you!

Step 1 Breathing

Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7 seconds, and exhale for 8 seconds. According to Medical News Today, this breathing technique is called relaxing breathing, which has been proven to calm anxiety, and help you fall asleep faster!

Step 2 No Talking

Your focus should be on your breathing, the music, and the area that is being worked on. Step into the present moment, without distraction. Imagine yourself sinking into the table, while you Toss. Every. Other. Thought. Away.

Step 3 Relax

Try not to "help" your therapist in any way. When you "help", you engage your own muscles, ensuring your therapist ONLY feel the muscles you've just activated. The more you help, the less we feel. So unclench your jaw, lower your shoulders, & let your therapist move your body for you.

Step 4 Be honest

If you're too cold, too hot. The music is too low, or too loud, If your therapist is hurting you, tickling you, whatever it is!! Let your therapist know! The more verbal you are, the better your session will go. This is YOUR massage! Your therapist is there to help YOU feel better.

Step 5 Drift Away

Trust your therapist, and let your mind wander. Don't try to force your mind to focus on anything. let your thoughts flow, do not chase them. Don't try to not think. Don't hold on to any thoughts. Let it happen, Let yourself go, Let it all go.

Ending notes

The body has the inate ability to heal itself according to uci.edu, and with these tools you will be one step closer to that goal. It is my job as a massage therapist to create a space capable of relaxation, and healing within our clinic, and if you practice these 5 steps, I am sure you will get the most out of your massage, health, and overall Wellness. I hope you try it! Let me know if it worked for you.