5 Ways To Get The Most From A Massage

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I had an extremely rough day at work today and decided that after a good workout, the best thing I could do to end the day would be to go get a massage.  I found a place that has 9:00 appointments and that is perfect for me. 

While I was sitting in the "relaxation lounge" I started thinking about all the things that I could do to make this massage great.  I came up with 5 and I thought I'd share them.  They might sound pretty obvious but sometimes you just have to hear it.  Remember, while you're there, that time is all for you.

1. Plan..Whenever possible, try to plan it so that it can be followed by additional relaxing activities.  For me its right before bed.  I come home, take a shower and snuggle in for some good quality sleep free of any tension I might have been holding on to.  Hopefully I sleep as soundly as E does.

2. Warm Up..So this might be my inner athlete coming out but it's true.  I try to arrive at least 10 minutes before the massage, not to fill out paper work but to create a buffer from the busy day that was and the massage that I'm about to get.  I enjoy some peppermint tea and just sit.  I try not to think of anything.

3. Communicate..The masseuse is there for you.  I know it can be hard to correct someone but if they aren't giving you the pressure you need or are too firm, you MUST let them know.  Doing so will ensure you get the most out of your time.

4. Clear Your Mind..This is by far the toughest for me but it has to be done.  For that hour I try to think of NOTHING but the muscle group that is currently being focused on.  I try to make sure that I'm not tensing in other areas of my body and I breathe.  Very Deeply.  I also try to visualize the nasty toxins leaving my body with every move. 

5. Hydrate..Massage can be very detoxifying which is great but in order to take full advantage it, you have to drink lots of water to help your body flush out the impurities.  I try to drink at least 16 oz as soon as I can.  As I sit here, an hour afterward, I'm still drinking my H20.  I don't get them that often so I plan on getting all that I can out of my massage. 

Ok, so there you have it.  Hopefully, you'll remember these little nuggets next time you get the chance.  What do you think?