Your first massage, what to expect

Booking your first professional massage can feel like a big step. You might wonder what to wear, how much you’ll need to undress, whether you should talk, or what happens if the pressure isn’t right. The good news is that a massage is designed to be relaxing from start to finish, and knowing what to expect takes away any nerves before you arrive. This guide walks you through the whole experience, from booking to the hours afterwards.

Choosing the right massage

Before you book, think about what you’d like to get from your massage.

• Back, neck and shoulder massage is a focused treatment, usually around 30 minutes. It’s ideal if you spend long hours at a desk or carry tension in your upper body.
• Full-body relaxing massage uses long, flowing strokes from head to toe. It’s the classic choice if you simply want to unwind.
• Hot stone massage adds warmed stones to a relaxing massage, giving a gentle, deep heat that many people find soothing.
• Foot and leg massage is a lovely option after long days on your feet, or as an add-on to another treatment.

Not sure which to choose? Send us a WhatsApp message, tell us what you’re hoping for, and we’ll suggest an option.

Before you arrive

A little preparation makes a big difference to how relaxed you feel.

• Eat lightly. Try not to have a heavy meal in the hour before your appointment. Lying face down on a full stomach isn’t comfortable.
• Arrive a few minutes early. Rushing in at the last minute leaves you tense before you’ve even started.
• Mention your health. If you’re pregnant, have an injury, a skin condition or any medical condition, say so when you book. Some massages need adapting, and a few aren’t suitable in certain situations.
• Skip the heavy perfume and body lotion. Your skin will be massaged with oil, and it works best on clean skin.

The consultation

Your therapist will usually start with a few questions. They’ll ask about any areas of tension, injuries, allergies to oils, and the kind of pressure you prefer. This is the perfect time to mention anything you’d like them to focus on or avoid, such as ticklish feet or a sore shoulder.

Getting comfortable

Your therapist will explain how to lie on the couch, then leave the room while you undress to the level you’re comfortable with. Most people keep their underwear on. You’ll be covered with a towel or sheet throughout, and only the area being massaged is uncovered at any time. If you’d prefer to keep more clothing on, just say so; a back, neck and shoulder massage can even be done with a top only partly lowered.

During the massage

The most important thing to know is that you’re in charge. If the pressure is too firm or too light, say so. If the room is too warm or too cool, or the music isn’t to your taste, mention it. A good therapist would much rather adjust than have you lie there uncomfortable.

Some people like to chat. Most prefer to close their eyes and switch off completely. Either is perfectly fine, and your therapist will follow your lead. It’s also completely normal to drift off to sleep.

Will it hurt?

A relaxing massage shouldn’t hurt. You may feel some tender spots where muscles are tight, and a firmer massage can feel intense in places, but it should never be painful. If anything feels sharp or uncomfortable, tell your therapist straight away and they’ll change the pressure or technique.

Straight afterwards

When the massage finishes, your therapist will leave the room so you can get dressed in your own time. Take a moment before you sit up; you may feel pleasantly light-headed. Get up slowly and have a glass of water before you head off.

The rest of the day

To make the most of your massage:

• Drink plenty of water.
• Keep the rest of the day calm if you can, and avoid a hard workout straight after.
• Have a warm bath or shower in the evening if you’d like to extend the relaxation.

A little tenderness the next day can be normal after a deeper massage, a bit like the feeling after exercise. It should ease within a day or two.

How often should I book?

That depends on why you’re having a massage. For general relaxation, many people book every few weeks or once a month. If you’re dealing with regular tension from desk work, a short back, neck and shoulder treatment every couple of weeks can keep things in check.

Ready to book?

Send us a WhatsApp message with the type of massage you’d like and the days that suit you. We’ll reply with availability and prices, and answer any questions before your visit.