How to prepare for a massage and what to expect

HomeHow to prepare for a massage and what to expect

If you have never had a massage before or are looking to try a new treatment, you may have a lot of questions on how to prepare for a massage. What should I wear to a massage? Will I have to get completely undressed for a massage? It is questions like these that are often left unaddressed, and may be making you too anxious or unsure to book your appointment. Whether you want to reduce pain and muscle strain, or are looking for a way to relax and relieve stress, going for a massage can be the perfect answer. However, no one wants to get more stressed trying to find a way to relieve stress!

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What is massage therapy?

Massage therapy is the manipulation of muscles by kneading, rubbing, pressing or patting the muscle groups. Massage therapists use their hands and massage oils to work through your muscle groups and may include aromatherapy oils and tranquil music to create a relaxing experience.

WHAT IS MASSAGE THERAPY GOOD FOR?

The purpose is to improve the flow of blood and fluid in lymph glands to reduce muscular tension, affect the nervous system through stimulation or sedation and to enhance tissue healing. Therapeutic massage may be recommended for the following:

  • Reducing muscle tension and stiffness
  • Increasing joint flexibility and range of motion
  • Relieving tension points and overall stress
  • To induce deeper and easier breathing
  • Improve healing speed of soft tissue injuries such as sprains and pulls
Hands of female masseuse doing a massage on the chin of a beautiful young woman lying on a massage table with closed eyes in a spa salon
Portrait of young female lying in spa salon during beauty procedure

What should I wear to a massage?

It is best to wear comfortable, loose-fitted clothing to your treatment. I tend to wear my gym clothing, as it’s easy to slip on and off and is super comfortable. It’s best not to wear anything tight-fitted as when you put your clothing back on, there may still be some residual massage oil on your skin which could transfer onto your clothing and make you uncomfortable after your treatment. Another way to prepare for a massage is to tie up your hair or put it into a bun out of the way. This will stop your hair from going oily and won’t get in the therapist’s way.

Do I have to be
completely naked during a massage?

The short answer is no, you do not need to be completely undressed for a massage if you would be more comfortable wearing your underwear. It is most common for clients to completely undress for their massage, especially if it is a full body massage, where the therapist will be working across your whole body. However, it’s completely up to you what you want to wear; undress to your level of comfort.

Head and shoulders of satisfied female customer smiling with her eyes closed and head lying on top of her hands while enjoying the benefits of relaxation during a spa massage therapy. Masseuse treats cervical and shoulders muscles.