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Last week I experienced a long overdue treat. Using a gift certificate I received for my birthday back in April, I got a massage. That should tell you how often I get massages, I knew it was time. A muscle in my neck and upper back that had decided to revolt after too much heavy lifting of laundry, 30 lb. kids, groceries, and probably too much typing on the computer as well. So I decided to fight back at my angered muscles by having a professional work them out. Here’s a run-down of my experience.
I arrived for my appointment 15 minutes early as instructed so I could check-in, fill-out my questionnaire, and prepare for my one hour of extreme unwinding. The ‘preparation’ included listening to piped-in relaxation music while sitting in the reception area on a comfy sofa and looking at their products for sale and books on Zen-inspired living. Normally, it costs $39 or more for a service, depending on if you go to a full day spa or to a massage franchise store (like Massage Envy, or Zen Massage where I went) but since I had a gift certificate, it was FREE for me and I was especially giddy.
I always like it when massage places have me fill-out an information sheet, because it conveys quality. They ask about your overall demeanor, what you are looking for in the massage (exercise muscles, relaxation, or to lessen depression/anxiety), and if you have physical limitations or medical concerns they should be aware of. They also ask for contact information for your doctor and a responsible adult, possibly in case my muscles turn to mush after they have been massaged rendering me unable to walk or drive.
After filling out the form, I elected to choose an aromatic scent to be used in my treatment—it was an energizing blend of flowers and citrus. My massage therapist then emerged from the ‘magic door’ and greeted me. She invited me back into the hallway of relaxation rooms, and showed me to one where a shelf-top rock fountain trickled, lights dimmed, candles burned, and meditative music played. The room was filled with relaxing scents of indistinguishable herbs and flowers. A massage table nearly filled the room, and was covered in linens.
My massage therapist instructed me to disrobe while she was out of the room, to climb under the sheets and blanket, and then to lie face-down on the table. For anyone who has not received a massage at a day spa before, it’s good to remember that the person who will work on you is a trained professional. They have a way of progressing around the table during the session, and manipulating your arms and legs along with the table coverings to ensure that you are not over-exposed at any time.
However, some people don’t feel comfortable getting completely naked for massages, and that’s OK. The idea is to be comfortable and relax, it is your hour, so you need to make sure you can take advantage of 100% of the treatment; if that means leaving your undergarments on, then do it.
The therapist completely used her hands and arms as tools to release tension in my upper back, and methodically worked on each section of my body. I was sure to communicate so she would use the correct amount of pressure. At one point, she had me breathe in eucalyptus and mint to help clear my sinuses. I nearly fell asleep during the treatment (relaxation achieved!), but thought during the process that I wait too long between getting treatments, and need to remember more often the benefits of massage therapy (she had them printed on a card which she gave me):
• Enhances immunity by stimulating lymph flow,
• Exercises and stretches weak and/or tight muscles,
• Increases joint flexibility and blood circulation,
• Decreases depression and anxiety,
• Reduces muscle spasms and cramping,
• Relieves pain and tension.
At the end of the hour, my muscles were sufficiently appeased, and I was relaxed and rejuvenated. My massage therapist instructed me to:
• Drink plenty of water throughout the rest of the day,
• Take a hot shower or bath with Epsom salt,
• Avoid alcoholic beverages and soda,
• Avoid any unnecessary stress,
• Stretch for at least 10 minutes later that day and the next.
The next morning, I actually was mildly sore from the massage, but overall felt better. Maybe I should start alternating my every-other-month hair appointments with massages.
Christine Jeffries is a writer/editor for work and at heart, and lives in a home of testosterone with her husband and two sons. She started a women’s group, The Wo-Hoo! Society, in the interests of friendship, networking, and philanthropy. The group meets separately on a monthly basis in the Phoenix and Kansas City areas. Christine is interested in women’s health and promoting strong women.
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Hi Christine - What a delicious, delightful description of massage! It reminds me that it's been way too long since I've had one, and I could sure use the muscle relaxation benefits that come with massage. Thanks so much for taking us along on your journey, it was fun!
October 15, 2009 - 5:47pmTake good care, Pat
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