How to receive a massage by John Seeley

Because massage is becoming a common part of our contemporary cultural experience, many people need to feel comfortable about receiving their first massage. Here are a few guidelines to help you feel at ease and to gain the greatest benefit from your massage session.

Tell the giver about the areas of your body which are injured, tense or sore. Also mention any medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, chronic headaches, varicose veins or recent surgery.

Close your eyes and allow yourself to relax as completely as possible. Focus on your breathing, which should be slow, deep and even.

When the giver’s hands locate areas of pain or tension in your body, consciously relax those areas. As you inhale deeply, visualize the breath flowing to the tense area and relaxing it. As you fully exhale, visualize the tension leaving your body with the breath. Give feedback about how the feeling of the giver’s hands on your muscles.

Allow the giver to move your limbs into various positions (no pretzels though). Be limp, like a ragdoll, and do not try to help move your arms, legs or head. Feel free to speak up if anything the giver does is too painful, ticklish or uncomfortable in any way.

The best way to receive a massage is with the body completely unclothed. The giver will be sensitive to the need for privacy and will keep your body covered with a sheet or blanket, except for the area being massaged. If this arrangement is not comfortable for you, you may wear underwear or a swimsuit.

Contrary to a common notion in our society about massage, it is an ancient healing art and not a sexual experience. The body might become aroused as you experience the pleasure of total relaxation. However, sexual behavior during the massage is inappropriate, (unless your giver is your partner, and even then you may miss some of the massage benefit. But it might be worth it).

Very often, as the body releases tension during a massage, the mind will release emotion. If you suddenly feel sad, angry or joyful, do not be alarmed. Allow yourself to express these feelings by crying or laughing. At the very least, feel free to sigh with relaxation or hum with pleasure.

Many people fall asleep during a massage, an indication that your body and mind are releasing stress and tension. The giver will gently wake you when it is time to turn over or end the massage.

I hope your massage experience is both enjoyable and beneficial. If you would like to learn how to give a massage, you can order your copy of “Relaxing Touch” on the product’s page (insert link here) for massage products including Love Fire Massage Oil. I wish this experience would be the beginning of a lifelong practice to help you enjoy the best possible health and relaxation.