What to Expect

 

Massage therapy can be very beneficial to you.  There are a few things you may like to know if you have never had a professional massage before.

1. Professional massage is strictly NON-Sexual.

2. Please arrive at least ten minutes early for your first appointment.  You will be given a health form to fill out, which you will then discuss with your massage therapist.  Any current health issues will be discussed, and a treatment plan and goals for the session will be developed accordingly.

3. Depending on the type of massage you are receiving, your level of undress depends on your comfort level.  Your therapist is trained to use the draping (sheet covering you) as a boundary.  If at any time, you are uncomfortable in any way, please address your needs or concerns to your therapist.

    *  For Swedish massage, relaxation massage, hot stone, prenatal, and some deep tissue massage, many people will undress down to their underwear, and some will completely undress.  This allows your therapist to use long flowing strokes that are not broken up by clothing.  You are still completely covered by the draping on the table, except the area being massaged.

  
    *  For Sports Massage or Sport Myofascial work, you may wear a loose fitting pair of shorts or running shorts and a tank top or sports bra.  This allows your therapist to utilize stretching and movement techniques, as well as postural evaluation during the session.


    *  For a Reiki session, clients may remain fully clothed.

 

    *Massage work can always be done through clothing, without the use of oils or lotions. Please don’t shy away from massage because you don’t want to get undressed! You can have an effective massage through your clothing, just tell your therapist you are not comfortable undressing.

4.  Sometimes you may become emotional during a massage, this is NORMAL, and your massage therapist will respect your need for tissue, a glass of water, or even if you need a few minutes to yourself.

5.  Because massage influences the parasympathetic nervous system, sometimes bodily functions, such as the release of gas, a spontaneous erection, or emotional release can occur. These are completely NORMAL and your massage therapist will not be offended.

6. Your massage therapist adheres to a professional code of ethics as a member of the NCTMB and the AMTA.

http://www.ncbtmb.org/about_code_of_ethics.php

http://www.amtamassage.org/about/codeofethics.html