A truly therapeutic massage works on both the body and the mind. While your therapist focuses on releasing knots and tension from your muscles, you have the power to deepen that release by preparing mentally. Arriving with a calm, quiet mind allows your body to be more receptive to healing touch, making the entire session more effective. The process of how to prepare for massage involves more than just drinking water; it’s about setting an intention, focusing on your breath, and leaving your daily stresses at the door. We’ll show you how these simple mindfulness practices can help you sink deeper into relaxation and get the most profound results.
Key Takeaways
- A great massage starts before you arrive: Prepare your body for relaxation by hydrating well, wearing comfortable clothes, and eating a light meal an hour or two before your appointment.
- Your feedback creates the perfect session: Open communication is key. Be specific about your goals, give honest feedback on pressure, and share any health concerns to help your therapist tailor the experience just for you.
- Make the benefits last with smart aftercare: Help your body integrate the therapeutic work by drinking plenty of water and resting after your session. For long-term wellness, think of massage as a consistent part of your self-care routine.
How to Prepare for Your Massage Appointment
A great massage is more than just what happens on the table; a little prep work beforehand can transform your experience from good to truly blissful. Think of it as setting the stage for deep relaxation. By taking a few simple steps before you arrive, you help your body and mind get the most out of every minute of your session. It’s all about making sure you’re comfortable, relaxed, and ready to let go of tension. These tips will help you walk into your appointment feeling prepared and open to the healing benefits of your massage.
Drink Plenty of Water
Hydration is key to a great massage. When your muscles are well-hydrated, they are more pliable and easier for your therapist to work on. Drinking water before your session helps prepare your muscle tissue for the deep work it’s about to receive. It also helps your body process and flush out the metabolic waste that gets released from your muscles during the massage. Try to increase your water intake the day before your appointment, not just an hour beforehand. This ensures your body is properly prepared to receive the full benefits of the treatment and helps you feel your best afterward.
Time Your Meals Correctly
Showing up for a massage feeling uncomfortably full is a recipe for distraction. Lying face down with a full stomach can be unpleasant and take away from your ability to relax. On the other hand, you don’t want your stomach growling with hunger, either. The best approach is to have a light meal or snack about an hour or two before your appointment. This gives your body time to digest while ensuring you have enough energy to feel comfortable. Avoid heavy, rich foods right before you come in, and you’ll be able to sink into the table without a second thought.
Get in the Right Headspace
Your massage is your time to disconnect from the outside world. Try to arrive 10-15 minutes early to give yourself a moment to breathe, use the restroom, and transition out of a busy day. If you’re feeling nervous, especially if it’s your first massage, please let us know. It’s completely normal, and our dedicated team is here to make you feel completely at ease. We’ll walk you through the process and answer any questions you have. The more relaxed you are mentally, the more your body will be able to physically let go and accept the therapeutic work.
What to Wear to Your Massage
One of the most common questions we hear from new clients is, “What should I wear?” It’s a great question, and the simple answer is: whatever makes you feel most comfortable. Your massage is your time to relax and let go of stress, and that starts before you even get on the table. There are no strict rules, but a few simple guidelines can help you feel prepared and at ease from the moment you walk through our doors.
The main goal is to transition smoothly from your day into a state of relaxation. Thinking about your attire beforehand just means one less thing to worry about later. Whether you’re coming straight from work, a workout, or home, we’ve got you covered—literally. Let’s walk through what to expect and how to dress for maximum comfort.
Dressing for Comfort: What Really Matters
When choosing your outfit for the day of your massage, think soft and simple. We recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothes to your appointment. Think yoga pants, sweatpants, t-shirts, or anything that’s easy to slip on and off. This makes the process of changing before and after your session seamless.
After your massage, your body will be in a deep state of relaxation, and the last thing you’ll want to do is squeeze into tight jeans or restrictive clothing. Wearing something comfortable helps you extend that blissful, post-massage feeling for as long as possible. It’s all about making your entire experience, from start to finish, as stress-free as possible.
Come As You Are
Here’s the most important thing to remember: you should only undress to your personal comfort level. Your massage therapist will leave the room to give you privacy to disrobe and get settled under the sheet on the massage table. You can choose to leave your underwear on or take it off—it is completely up to you. Our professional therapists can work around any clothing you choose to leave on.
Your comfort is our top priority. The goal is for you to relax, and you can’t do that if you’re feeling self-conscious. For treatments that involve long, gliding strokes, like a Swedish massage, being fully undressed can allow for a more fluid session, but it is never a requirement.
How Draping Keeps You Covered
No matter what you decide to wear (or not wear) under the sheet, rest assured that you will be securely covered throughout your entire session. This practice is called draping, and it’s a standard for all licensed massage therapists. Your therapist will use a sheet and blanket to keep your body covered, only uncovering the specific area they are working on at that moment. For example, when they are massaging your back, the rest of your body will remain draped.
This technique ensures your privacy and keeps you warm and comfortable. Our dedicated team of therapists is highly trained in professional draping methods, so you can feel completely safe and secure on the table.
How to Communicate with Your Massage Therapist
Think of your massage therapist as a partner in your wellness journey. The key to a truly fantastic massage is open, honest communication. Your therapist is a trained professional whose only goal is to make you feel better, but they aren’t a mind reader. Speaking up about what you need and how you’re feeling allows them to tailor the session specifically for you. A simple conversation before you get on the table can transform a good massage into a great one. It’s the difference between a generic experience and one that addresses your unique aches, pains, and goals for the session.
At Nola Bliss, our therapists are dedicated to their craft and your comfort. We want you to leave feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and heard. Don’t ever feel shy or awkward about sharing your preferences. We’re here to listen and adjust, ensuring your experience is exactly what you hoped for. Whether it’s your first massage or your fiftieth, clear communication is the most important tool for getting the results you want. Remember, this is your time, and you deserve to get the most out of every minute on the table. Your feedback helps us provide the best possible therapeutic massage.
Share Your Goals and Concerns
Before the session begins, your therapist will ask what you’d like to work on. This is your moment to be specific! Instead of just saying “I’m stressed,” try something like, “I hold all my stress in my neck and shoulders, and I’ve had a tension headache for two days.” The more detail you provide, the better your therapist can focus on the areas that need the most attention. Let them know if you’re dealing with an old injury, training for a marathon, or just need an hour of pure relaxation. Also, mention any minor cuts, bruises, or skin sensitivities so they can work around them.
Give Feedback on Pressure
Pressure is personal, and what feels perfect to one person might be too much or too little for another. Your therapist will likely ask about your pressure preference, but you should feel empowered to give feedback throughout the entire session. There’s a difference between the “good hurt” of a knot releasing and actual pain. If anything feels sharp, pinching, or just plain uncomfortable, please speak up immediately. A simple, “Could you use a little less pressure there?” or “That’s perfect,” is all it takes. This is especially important during a deep pressure service like Ashiatsu Deepfeet Bar Therapy, where communication ensures the best results.
Mention Any Health Conditions or Sore Spots
Your safety and well-being are the top priorities. It’s crucial to inform your therapist about any health conditions, even if they don’t seem related to the massage. This includes things like high blood pressure, recent surgeries, allergies, or chronic illnesses. This information helps them customize a safe and effective session for you. For example, a Prenatal Massage requires specific techniques and positioning to ensure the safety and comfort of both mother and baby. Rest assured that this information is confidential and allows your therapist to provide the best possible care.
What to Avoid Before a Massage
To get the most out of your massage, what you don’t do beforehand is just as important as what you do. Think of it as setting the stage for total relaxation and healing. A few simple adjustments to your pre-massage routine can make a world of difference in how you feel on the table and for days afterward. We want you to have the best possible experience, whether you’re getting a soothing Swedish massage or our signature Ashiatsu Deepfeet Bar Therapy. By avoiding a few key things, you help your body and mind fully receive the benefits of your session. Here are a few things we recommend holding off on before you walk through our doors.
Skip Alcohol and Excessive Caffeine
That pre-massage mimosa or extra-large coffee might sound like a good idea, but it’s best to wait until after your appointment. Both alcohol and caffeine can dehydrate you, and proper hydration is key to a great massage. Your therapist is working to release tension from your muscles, and water is what helps your body flush everything out. Showing up dehydrated can counteract the benefits and may leave you feeling a bit lightheaded or groggy afterward, which is the opposite of the blissful state we’re aiming for. Save the celebratory drink or coffee for after your session when you’re feeling completely refreshed.
Avoid Heavy Meals and Intense Workouts
We know New Orleans has some incredible food, but try to schedule your big meal for after your massage. Lying on your stomach with a full belly can be uncomfortable and distracting, preventing you from fully relaxing into the experience. We suggest eating a light snack an hour or two before you arrive if you’re hungry. Similarly, it’s a good idea to skip that intense gym session right before your appointment. Your muscles will already be getting a deep workout on the table, and coming in with them already fatigued can sometimes lead to soreness rather than relief. Let the massage be the main event for your body.
Don’t Apply Lotions or Strong Fragrances
Please come to your appointment with clean skin, free of any heavy lotions, oils, or strong perfumes. Our therapists use professional-grade oils and lotions designed to provide the perfect amount of glide and grip for your specific treatment, whether it’s a relaxing Swedish or a targeted deep tissue massage. Other products can interfere with this process and make it harder for the therapist to work effectively. Plus, a massage room is an enclosed, serene space, and strong fragrances can become overwhelming for both you and your therapist, taking away from the calming environment we work hard to create for your session.
What to Expect During Your Massage Session
Walking into a massage room for the first time can feel a little mysterious, but it’s a simple process designed entirely around your comfort and relaxation. From the moment you arrive, your therapist’s focus is on creating a peaceful and healing experience for you. Knowing what’s coming next helps you relax even more deeply and get the full benefit of your session. Here’s a step-by-step look at what your time on the table will be like.
Your Arrival and Consultation
When you arrive, you’ll be greeted and led to your private, tranquil massage room. Before your session begins, your therapist will take a few minutes to chat with you. This is your time to share what you hope to get out of the massage. Are you looking to relieve tension in your shoulders? Do you have a nagging pain in your lower back? Or are you simply hoping to de-stress and unwind? Be sure to mention any health conditions or injuries. This conversation ensures your massage is tailored specifically to your needs, allowing our dedicated team to provide a safe and effective treatment just for you.
Relaxing on the Table
After your consultation, your therapist will step out to give you complete privacy to undress and get comfortable on the massage table. You should undress to your personal comfort level—for many people, that means removing all clothing, while others prefer to leave their underwear on. It’s entirely up to you. You’ll lie down on the table and cover yourself with the sheet and blanket provided. Your therapist will knock before re-entering. Throughout all our massage services, you will be securely draped, and only the specific area of your body being worked on will be uncovered at any time. Your modesty and comfort are our top priorities.
Giving Feedback During Your Session
This is your massage, and your feedback is essential for making it a perfect experience. Your therapist will likely check in with you about the pressure, but please don’t hesitate to speak up at any point. If the pressure is too light or too deep, just say so. If the room is too cool or the music isn’t to your liking, let us know. This is especially important during a Deep Tissue or Swedish Massage, where the right amount of pressure is key to releasing muscle tension. Open communication helps your therapist adjust the technique to ensure you are comfortable, relaxed, and getting exactly what you need from your session.
How to Get the Most from Your Massage
A truly great massage is a partnership between you and your therapist. While our team is dedicated to providing an incredible therapeutic experience, there are a few simple things you can do during your session to deepen your relaxation and maximize the benefits. It’s all about being present and allowing your body to receive the work it needs. By focusing on your mind and body, you can transform a good massage into an amazing one. These small adjustments can make a huge difference in how you feel both on the table and long after you leave our studio.
Think of your time on the table as a dedicated practice in mindfulness. The more you can tune in and participate in your own relaxation, the more effective the treatment will be. This doesn’t mean you have to do anything strenuous. In fact, it’s the opposite. It’s about letting go of the tension you’re holding, both physically and mentally. When your mind is calm and your body is open, your therapist can work more deeply and effectively, addressing the root causes of your discomfort instead of just the surface-level symptoms. This is especially true for therapeutic work like our specialized Ashiatsu Deepfeet Bar Therapy, where a relaxed state allows for deeper, more consistent pressure. By actively participating in your session through simple mental exercises, you help create the ideal conditions for healing and release.
Focus on Your Breath
This sounds simple, but it’s incredibly powerful. When you’re on the massage table, bring your attention to your breathing. Try to take slow, deep, deliberate breaths that fill your belly. As you exhale, imagine the tension melting away from your muscles. Deep breathing helps switch your nervous system into “rest and digest” mode, making your body more receptive to the massage. It also helps your muscles relax, allowing your therapist to work more effectively on tight spots and knots. If you notice your mind wandering, gently guide your focus back to the rhythm of your breath. It’s a simple anchor that keeps you grounded in the present moment.
Quiet Your Mind
Your massage time is a rare opportunity to disconnect from the outside world. Leave your to-do lists, work emails, and daily worries at the door. Arriving a few minutes early can give you a moment to sit, sip some water, and transition out of a busy mindset. Once your session begins, try to let your thoughts drift by without judgment. Instead of planning your next move, focus on the sensation of the therapist’s touch and the feeling of your muscles releasing. If you find it hard to switch off, concentrating on your breathing can help. Giving your mind a true break is just as important as relaxing your body.
Set an Intention for Your Session
Before your massage begins, take a moment to think about what you want to achieve. Are you here to relieve chronic back pain? To de-stress after a tough week? Or simply to enjoy a quiet hour of self-care? Having a clear goal helps you get the most out of your time. Be sure to share this intention with your therapist during your initial consultation. Knowing your goal allows them to customize the session to your specific needs, whether that means focusing on a particular area or using techniques best suited for a deep tissue massage or pure relaxation. This simple step ensures your experience is perfectly tailored to you.
What to Expect After Your Massage
The bliss doesn’t have to end when you step off the table. The hour or so after your massage is a crucial time for your body to process the therapeutic work it just received. Knowing what to expect and how to care for yourself can extend the benefits of your session long after you’ve left our studio. Think of it as the final, essential step in your self-care routine. By giving your body a little extra attention, you can help it fully absorb the positive effects of the massage, ensuring you feel your best.
How You’ll Feel Afterward
Right after your massage, you’ll likely feel deeply relaxed and maybe even a little floaty—we call that “massage brain.” It’s a wonderful state of calm. For many, this is followed by a sense of rejuvenation and renewed energy. However, it’s also completely normal to feel some muscle soreness, especially if you had a therapeutic session like a deep tissue or Ashiatsu massage. This is similar to the feeling after a good workout; it’s a sign that your muscles were worked effectively to release tension. This tenderness usually subsides within a day or two, leaving you feeling more mobile and relieved.
Post-Massage Care: Hydrate and Rest
Your most important job after a massage is to drink plenty of water. Your muscles are made up of about 75% water, and proper hydration helps them stay healthy and pliable. During a massage, metabolic waste is released from your soft tissues, and drinking water helps your body flush everything out efficiently. Try to avoid alcohol or caffeine for the rest of the day, as they can be dehydrating. If you can, take it easy. A gentle walk is fine, but try to postpone any strenuous activity. Giving your body time to rest allows it to fully integrate the benefits of your massage service.
When to Book Your Next Massage
Think of massage as a vital part of your wellness routine, like exercise or healthy eating, rather than just a special treat. Regular sessions can lead to significant long-term benefits, from reduced chronic pain to better stress management. So, when should you come back? The best answer comes from a combination of listening to your body and talking with your therapist. They can recommend a schedule based on your specific goals and needs. Building a relationship with one of our dedicated therapists ensures your care is consistent and tailored perfectly to you, helping you maintain that feeling of bliss.
How Preparation Changes for Different Massages
While the tips above are a great starting point for any massage, some specialty services benefit from a little extra consideration. Think of it as fine-tuning your preparation to match the specific experience you’ve booked. Whether you’re coming in for intense therapeutic work, a gentle prenatal session, or a relaxing shared experience, a few extra mental notes can make a world of difference. Knowing what to expect and how to communicate your needs for these unique massages ensures you get the most out of every minute on the table.
Prepping for Deep Tissue or Ashiatsu
If you’ve booked a deep tissue massage or our signature Ashiatsu Deepfeet Bar Therapy, your goal is likely to address chronic pain or seriously tight muscles. These techniques go beyond general relaxation to provide targeted relief. The key to a successful session is open communication. Be ready to point out specific areas of discomfort and don’t hesitate to speak up if the pressure is too much—or not enough. Your therapist is skilled at listening to both your words and your body’s response, but clear feedback from you is what makes the treatment truly effective and tailored to your needs.
Special Tips for Prenatal Massage
Your comfort and safety are the top priorities during a Prenatal Massage. Before your session, take a moment to think about any specific aches and pains you’ve been experiencing—like lower back pain or swollen ankles. Be sure to let your therapist know how far along you are and if you have any concerns or conditions your doctor has mentioned. We use special pillows and positioning to keep you and your baby comfortable and safe throughout the massage. This session is all about providing relief and support during this special time, so sharing these details helps us customize the experience just for you.
Getting Ready for a Couples Massage
A Couples Massage is a wonderful way to connect and relax with a partner. To make it a great experience for both of you, it helps to chat beforehand. While you’ll each have your own therapist, you can decide on the general vibe you want for the room—do you prefer quiet, or would you like to chat softly? It’s also a good idea for each of you to think about your individual goals for the massage. One of you might want to focus on a sore neck, while the other just wants to unwind. Communicating these preferences to your respective therapists ensures you both leave feeling refreshed and satisfied.
Make Massage a Healthy Habit
Think of massage not just as a special treat, but as a vital part of your wellness routine. Just like regular exercise or healthy eating, consistent massage therapy can have a profound impact on your physical and mental health. Regular sessions can help manage stress, improve circulation, ease chronic pain, and keep your body feeling its best. When you make massage a regular practice, you’re making a long-term investment in your well-being. It becomes less about fixing a problem and more about maintaining a state of balance and health. The key is to find a rhythm that works for you and to build a supportive relationship with a therapist who understands your goals.
Build a Relationship with Your Therapist
Finding the right massage therapist is like finding any other trusted healthcare professional—it’s all about connection and communication. Your massage is a partnership, and the best results come from open dialogue. Don’t be shy about sharing your goals, whether you’re dealing with a nagging shoulder injury or just need to de-stress. Our dedicated team of therapists is here to listen and tailor the session to you. Remember to speak up if the pressure is too light, too firm, or if something feels uncomfortable. We are professionals who have seen it all, and our only goal is to make you feel safe and comfortable so you can get the most out of your time on the table.
Know When It’s Time for a Massage
So, how often should you get a massage? The honest answer is: it depends on you. Your body is the best guide. If you’re dealing with chronic pain or recovering from an injury, you might benefit from more frequent sessions, perhaps weekly or bi-weekly. For general wellness and stress management, a monthly massage can be a fantastic way to maintain balance. The best approach is to chat with your therapist at the end of your session. Based on your body’s response and your personal wellness goals, they can recommend a massage treatment plan and a schedule that makes sense for you. Listening to your body and working with your therapist will help you create a sustainable and beneficial routine.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it okay to talk during my massage? Absolutely. This is your time, and you should spend it however you feel most comfortable. Some people find that chatting helps them relax, while others prefer complete silence to quiet their minds. Your therapist will likely take their cues from you. If you want to talk, feel free; if you prefer quiet, that’s perfectly fine too. The only time you absolutely should speak up is if you need the pressure adjusted or feel any discomfort.
What if I fall asleep or snore during my session? Please don’t worry about this! It’s actually a huge compliment to your therapist. Falling asleep is a sign that you are completely relaxed and comfortable, which is exactly what we hope for. Snoring is a natural part of that deep relaxation. Our therapists are professionals who see this happen all the time and understand it as a sign that they’re doing a great job helping you unwind.
Why do I feel sore the day after a deep tissue massage? It’s completely normal to feel some muscle tenderness after a deep tissue or Ashiatsu massage. Think of it like the soreness you feel after a really good workout. Your therapist worked on muscles that were tight and holding a lot of tension, and that process can create a temporary, mild inflammatory response as your body begins to heal and realign. This feeling should fade within a day or two, leaving you feeling much more mobile and relieved.
Do I have to be completely undressed for my massage? No, you only need to undress to your personal comfort level. Your therapist will give you complete privacy to disrobe and get settled under a sheet and blanket on the table. Whether you choose to leave your underwear on or take it off is entirely your decision. Our therapists are highly skilled in professional draping techniques, ensuring you are securely covered throughout the entire session, with only the area being worked on uncovered.
How do I know which type of massage is right for me? The best massage for you depends on your goals for the session. If you’re looking for overall relaxation and stress relief, a Swedish massage is a wonderful choice. If you’re dealing with chronic pain, knots, or muscle tightness, a Deep Tissue or Ashiatsu massage will provide more targeted, therapeutic pressure. Don’t feel like you have to have it all figured out before you arrive. You can always discuss your needs with your therapist during the consultation, and they will help you choose the perfect service.
