When you decide to have a massage it can be a little daunting. Don’t worry as most people are a little nervous about having a massage for the first time. No doubt you are asking yourself a lot of questions, the first one might even be “what have I let myself in for?” don’t worry, if the masseur is good it can only be a positive experience. To put your mind at rest I will try to answer some of the questions that might be going through your mind at this time.

The massage therapist will need to know your medical history, what problems you have and even what problems you have had in the past. The therapist will need to know if there is any specific medical condition that has brought you to them or if you just need a relaxing massage. Even if you only want a relaxing massage they will need to know your medical history to make sure that all the techniques they use are suitable for you. If you start to feel uncomfortable or embarrassed you need to tell your massage therapist so that they can rectify the problem if possible.

While questioning you about your health the massage therapist should also explain the procedure he or she will be using. They should ask you about your sensitivity to determine how deep the massage should be. If you are treating a sore area you may find the massage slightly uncomfortable but otherwise you should not feel pain or discomfort during the massage.

Exposing the area of your body that is being treated will help the therapist to work more efficiently, however, it is not mandatory to undress. While it is preferable to drape the areas not requiring exposure with a sheet or towels it is possible for the therapist to work on you while you are fully dressed although this is not ideal. If you do not feel comfortable without clothing be sure to opt for clothing that is not tight or restrictive as it will interfere with the treatment.

The massage therapist should leave the room while you undress, or else there should be a screen for you to undress behind. A large bath towel should be provided so that you should not feel embarrassed being undressed. Your warmth and privacy are of paramount importance.

The massage table will probably be padded and bolsters or rolled towels will be used to get you into a comfortable position for your massage. Sometimes when people are lying on their back they can get backache this can be prevented just by putting a pillow, bolster or rolled towel under their knees. At times the therapist will ask you to move position so that they can reach different areas, if having a full body massage you will spend time on both your back and your front so that all areas can be massaged. Remember unless you tell your therapist that you are cold, uncomfortable or embarrassed they do not know, so do speak up and let them know how you are doing.

Although all therapist work in slightly different ways, they will all want you to have the best experience possible that way you will be back again. Relaxation is a great part of massage so often the lights will be dimmed, sometimes there will only be candle light. Scented candles are often used so if you do not like them or have a problem with a particular scent do tell the therapist. Soft music will often be played, again if you do not like it say so, as what is relaxing music to one person is not to another.

Oil is usually applied to reduce the friction of the massage and you may be asked for your preference of scent. The massage therapist should help you remove the oil before putting your clothes back on so they do not stain.

We are all different and some people chat all the way through the massage for others it is a time of peace and quiet and they do not say two words. The therapist will take your lead and will chat if you want to but will be quite happy not to if that is what you prefer. Of course they may have to ask you to move into a different position at times and they may ask how you are doing but the rest is up to you.

A good massage therapist should make you feel comfortable enough to ask any questions you have about the procedure and respect your privacy and level of comfort while treating you. Ask for recommendations and meet with the therapist to discuss their methods before booking your appointment.