GARY'S MASSAGE PAGE
Everything You Wanted to Know
About Massage!
Many people who are just becoming interested in massage want to ask
questions about it. Sometimes they are reluctant to ask. On the theory
that the only "dumb" question is the one not asked, here are the ones
that are asked frequently, along with the best, brief answers I can
provide.
The question guide
- Q. Who benefits from massage?
- Q. What happens when I go for a massage?
- Q. Do I have to remove all my clothes to receive a massage?
- Q. Will the therapist explain how I should drape myself? Will he leave the room while I get ready for my massage?
- Q. Will a massage ever harm me?
- Q. Does a massage hurt?
- Q. Will the therapist use oil to give the massage?
- Q. Will oil get in my hair?
- Q. How often should I get a massage?
- Q. What type of massage do you do?
- Q. How long is a massage?
- E-mail any questions
Q. Who benefits from massage?
A. The typical massage therapist would reply, "Nearly everyone!" Many
people receive massage on a regular basis for relaxation. It is a great
stress reliever! Massage can enhance the performance of competitive
athletes, and is often used by them to prevent sore muscles following
vigorous exercise. Habitual tightness of muscles (jaw, neck, etc.) is
frequently relieved by massage, which also helps your body learn to
relax. Persons who are forced into inactivity from injury, illness or
age, find relief from sore muscles and experience improved circulation
from massage. Massage also helps reduce fluid retention; can help
improve range of motion in stiff, painful joints. Backaches in
pregnancy are also helped by massage.
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Q. What happens when I go for a massage?
A. Many "new" massage clients are concerned about procedures in the
massage. When you go for your first massage, your therapist will
probably have you fill out a form which requires the usual information
(name, address, etc.), basic medical information, and the reason you
want a massage. When the form is complete, the therapist will ask any
questions he might have, based on information in the form. He will also
ask if you have any particular problem, such as pain from sore muscles
or muscle spasms.
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Q. Do I have to remove all my clothes to receive a massage?
A. Most clients do remove all their clothes, but others are more
comfortable remaining in their underwear. During the massage, you will
be covered by a sheet, and draped at all times. Only the area being
massaged will be exposed. At no time are the breasts or genitals
touched or exposed.
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Q. Will the therapist explain how I should drape myself? Will he leave
the room while I get ready for my massage?
A. Yes. The therapist will explain how to arrange the draping materials
and will leave the room while you get ready.
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Q. Will a massage ever harm me?
A. One of the wonders of massage is that, when properly done, it can't
do harm. Be sure that you select a certified, experienced massage
therapist.
If you have a medical condition, you may be more comfortable checking
with your physician as to his/her opinion regarding you and massage.
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Q. Does a massage hurt?
A. No. While injured or painful muscles may be slightly uncomfortable,
massage should not cause pain in normal tissue. Since each person has a
different tolerance for pressure, it is important that you give feedback
to your therapist during your massage, so that he may adjust his
technique to help you feel comfortable. As you become accustomed to
massage, you may wish for stronger pressure.
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Q. Will the therapist use oil to give the massage?
A. Yes. Be sure to let your therapist know if you have allergies to any
oils or fragrances, or even if you have a preferred massage oil. Most
therapists will have a selection of oils, lightly scented or unscented,
as well as different types of oil and lotions.
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Q. Will oil get in my hair?
A. It is a good idea to let your therapist know if you have any concerns
like this. A good massage therapist will respect your concerns and do
his best to accomodate your needs.
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Q. How often should I get a massage?
A. There is no hard and fast rule about the frequency of massage. Your
body is the judge. Some people elect to have one or more massages a
week, while others find they feel good with less frequent massages. It
is probably best to discuss this with your massage therapist. Above all,
trust what you feel, and decide based on that.
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Q. What type of massage do you do?
A. I am trained in Swedish massage. It is comprised of many techniques:
light strokes, long strokes, deep kneading and moving joints through
range of motion.
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Q. How long is a massage?
A. The typical massage takes about an hour.
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It is my feeling, after giving thousands of massages, that massage is a
wonderful adjunct to healthy living. Please e-mail if you have any
further questions, I will do my best to answer them.
e-mail:
canoe2@execpc.com
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