When you make a therapeutic massage appointment, try some of the following suggestions to get the most from your massage service.

Part of a great massage experience depends on the massage therapist. Check your provider out online, talk to a friend for a referral or talk directly to the massage therapist you have chosen before your massage appointment. Explain what you want. If you leave something unsaid, including any specific focus you would like, it may be on your mind during your massage, which prevents you from relaxing as much as possible, or not receive the attention you wanted.

Another part of having a great experience depends on you and what you can do to improve your massage experience. Your massage is your time and when you walk out the door, you should feel better. Therapists are happy to spend time before the service to understand what you want and to answer your questions. Here are some things you can do to improve your massage: 

• Don’t be concerned about what your massage therapist might think of your questions, concerns, or your body. Certified MTs are professionals, and the goal is to help you, so frank discussion is best. 
• Disrobe for the service only to your level of comfort. You will be draped with a sheet during the entire treatment; only the area of your body on which the massage therapist is working will be exposed.
• Arrive a few minutes early so you can begin to relax. Schedule your massage so you are not rushing to get there or having to hurry out immediately afterwards. If you arrive having just raced from work and fighting traffic, it will take longer for you to relax and achieve calmness.

Once you are on the table, there are things you can do then to improve your experience as well. 

• Breathe deeply. As we get busy or tense, our breath becomes shallow. Draw deep breaths that you feel all the way into your abdomen. In just a minute of deep breathing, you will begin to feel more relaxed and peaceful. This is your chance to escape. Turning off your brain can be challenging, so concentrate on the moment. Feel your breathing. 
• Focus on the sensations of the therapist’s touch. Feel the warmth from the table warmer. 
• Allow your muscles to go limp. The therapist may move you around and will ask if they need some help from you. Most massage movements are more effective if you do not try to help out. 
• Communicate during the massage when needed. Therapists can adjust the pressure, temperature, lighting and music to your preference. 
• Get regular massages. People who come in regularly experience longer lasting effects than those who only come in on occasion. 
• Work with the same massage therapist. The more you get to know each other, the more you will trust him or her and the better the results you will enjoy. 

When you get a massage, get a great massage.