And, it simply feels good. So why do people hesitate to schedule a massage? "Basically it boils down to fear," says Pam Seitz, Certified Massage therapist at East Boca Yoga & Pilates. "If you've never had a therapeutic massage, you may not know what to expect or might be timid about asking what you perceive as embarrassing questions." So, to put your mind at ease, we're going to ask those intimidating questions for you and let you hear it from the expert.
Massage is a gentle therapy that can relieve pain and stress.
Must I be completely undressed?
No. Undress to your level of comfort. Many people remove all their clothing in order to feel less restricted and more comfortable and to avoid getting any massage oil or cream on their clothes. Others prefer to wear an undergarment during the massage session. There's really no "right" or "wrong" way. The most important thing is to be comfortable and relaxed.
Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
The therapist will not be present when you disrobe. He or she will leave the room, give you time to remove clothing, get on the table, and cover yourself with a sheet. Then she will knock gently and ask permission to enter the room when she returns.
Will I be covered during the session?
You will be covered by a sheet at all times during the massage session. The practitioner will uncover each portion of your body as she works on it. The towel or sheet will be gently but firmly tucked around the rest of your body so that you do not feel "exposed" at any time. When it is time to roll over, the practitioner will hold up the sheet between the two of you until you settle in.
Which parts of my body will be massaged?
Generally, the whole body is massaged, except for private areas. If there is any area you do not want massaged, just mention that to your therapist.
What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?
Close your eyes (your therapist may offer you an eye pillow), relax, listen to the soothing music and surrender yourself into the hands of your competent therapist. Your practitioner will ask you if the temperature of the room, the position of the face cradle and the volume of the music are comfortable. Don't ever hesitate to ask them to make adjustments, if needed, at any time during the massage.
Must I talk to the massage therapist during the session?
You may exchange a few words with your therapist at the onset of the massage and then settle into a comfortable silence if you wish. Some people like to chat throughout a massage while others appreciate the quiet time. You need not feel obligated to have a conversation with your massage therapist; she doesn't expect it.
What if I fall asleep? What if I snore?
You may become so relaxed that you fall asleep; many people do. If you do so, your massage therapist will gently touch your shoulder when it is time to turn over or when the massage is finished. And don't be embarrassed if you snore. Your secret's safe with us.
What if I'm overweight or embarrassed about my body?
Massage therapists often hear people say they'd get a massage if they lost weight first or didn't have that cellulite on the back of their thighs. Don't let this stop you. You're denying yourself quite a pleasurable experience.
Massage therapists have seen bodies in every imaginable shape and size, from young to old, and they're not there trying to judge your physique or ogle your body. They're professionals who have found massage to be a wonderful gift to give to men and women alike, regardless of age and weight, and are proud of what they can offer to people in need of help or just wanting to luxuriate in the sense of touch.
Will a massage hurt?
You should not feel pain during the massage, however everyone has different thresholds of pain. The depth of a stroke may not be deep enough for one person's liking and may cause pain for another. A deep massage with tight muscles may leave some residual soreness the next day. Some people want the massage as deep as possible regardless of the soreness.
Other people want something much lighter, more sensual and pleasing, to help them relax rather than deeper work into muscles that might be sore. So make your preference known to the therapist, and give feedback at any time during a massage that the depth of the strokes is more than you'd like.
450 NE 20th Street, Suite 108 • Boca Raton, FL 33431 • 561.544.0777
