Massage is a great way to relax, unwind, and calm down, and some types of this treatment can also provide relief for various ailments. However, it sometimes happens that especially those planning their first massage wonder if any preparation is needed before the procedure? In our article, we clear up these doubts!
How to prepare for a massage? Basic principles
Massages are becoming increasingly popular as relaxation treatments that we undergo for pleasure. They bring numerous benefits – they reduce muscle tension and pain, improve circulation, relieve stress, firm the skin, and positively affect well-being. Although new SPA salons, massage parlors, and wellness centers are opening in cities and tourist destinations, many people still have doubts not only about what to wear to the SPA but also about how to prepare and what is best to wear.
As a rule, massage does not require special preparation – however, it is worth knowing the basic recommendations that will ensure maximum comfort during the treatment. An important aspect is hygiene above all. Before a massage, one should take a warm shower – at home or already at the salon, which is possible in most such places. The shower removes sweat and dirt, and additionally warms up and relaxes the muscles and softens the skin, making it more receptive to the effects of the treatment. Many salons offer clients the possibility to use the shower directly before the massage.
Regardless of whether you are going for a classic, relaxing, or another type of massage, remember to avoid heavy meals before the treatment. Since massage is usually performed lying down, heavy meals can cause discomfort and nausea, which effectively hinder relaxation and enjoyment of the massage. At the latest, you can eat a light meal 1.5 hours before the scheduled treatment, which will not overly burden the digestive system. If you fear hunger after the treatment, bring a snack to eat afterward. It is also advisable to bring water to replenish fluids after the massage.
However, there are different types of massage – not only relaxing and classic massages but also Thai massage or sports massage. Depending on the characteristics of the given treatment and the technique used, different preparation recommendations may apply. For example, planning a therapeutic massage may require results of certain tests. On the other hand, treatments focusing on a specific part of the body, such as facial massage, which relaxes muscles and oxygenates tissues, require prior thorough skin cleansing. Sometimes peeling is also performed.
If you wonder whether your type of massage requires specific preparation, contact the salon or the masseur to get all the necessary information. At Klekotki Sento SPA we will gladly answer all your questions and dispel any doubts regarding both preparation and the course of the massage.
What to wear to a massage?
During a standard classic massage and most popular treatments, the person being massaged remains only in underwear, with the body covered by a large towel. SPA salons and massage rooms provide disposable slippers or special disposable underwear for the duration of the treatment, so you do not need to bring anything with you. In some cases, just the currently massaged body parts are uncovered – when the treatment focuses on specific areas. When going for a massage, it is advisable to choose loose, comfortable clothing that does not restrict movement. Such clothing ensures maximum comfort and is easy to put on after the treatment when your body is covered with oils or other cosmetics.
Contraindications to massage – when should you avoid the treatment?
Despite the many undisputed benefits of massage, not everyone can undergo such treatments – including relaxation massage. There are certain contraindications to massage, which primarily include:
- breaks in skin continuity (including after surgical procedures),
- acute skin inflammations and skin lesions,
- cancers,
- feverish states,
- thrombotic changes,
- hypertension,
- atherosclerosis,
- varicose veins,
- aneurysms,
- infections.
Pregnancy is also a contraindication for standard treatments. However, some salons offer treatments for pregnant women that allow them to enjoy the beneficial, soothing effects of relaxation massage, specially prepared for them, which can be performed safely for both the mother and the baby.
If you have doubts whether you can undergo a given treatment, consult your doctor or masseur. Before the first visit to the massage salon, a short questionnaire is often filled out to assess health condition and possible contraindications to the treatment.