St Albert Physiotherapy Massage Therapy - Healing Pain For The Time Being | Page 11

WHAT TO DO TO ENHANCE THE EFFECTS
OF YOUR MASSAGE THERAPY
- Firstly, let’s begin with one of the obvious question: is it fine to be completely
naked for the massage? It is normal that at first it is uncomfortable to get naked in
front of someone your barely know, but the thing is, this is really normal. People
should not be ashamed or worried because massage therapist are professionals
and they can do their job better when working on the naked area. However, in
Canada, it is your right to strip down until the point where you feel comfortable.
But do remember, that the therapist covers you with sheets and having clothes
underneath get in the way of reaching specific pressure points thus limiting the
experience of the massage.
- Secondly, Canadian therapists advise to have a warm shower before the
massage therapy. This enhances the effect of the rubdown because it relaxes your
muscles and your mind but it also opens up your skin pores. This makes possible a
relaxation state during the session which will make easier the work for the
therapist.
- Another factor is breathing. In a massage therapy, it is common for therapist to
find complicated muscle knots which may cause pain and tension. It is important to
remember in those moments that getting tense inhibits the effect of the therapy.
Therefore, you have to keep breathing and avoid holding your breath. This helps
to oxygenate these areas to release the tension.