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Most of us are unprepared for our first massage. It could be nervous or even anxious, and that’s understandable. So many questions come to mind like: What am I supposed to wear? Should I be speaking? Should the therapist? Do we need to tip an RMT?
Here’s the thing: massage is meant to be therapeutic and enjoyable. You should be able to quickly get to the point of looking forward to a massage in much the same way you’d look forward to a holiday! It’s your moment to relax, rejuvenate, rehabilitate and let go of stress.
» The intake
At your first appointment, you need to carefully fill out your ‘Intake Form’. You can find our intake form in welcome email after online booking or our website in ‘Expert Resources’. It is a good idea to complete the form before your visit. Or you need to show up a few minutes early to fill out a paper copy at our clinic.
» Communicate with your therapist
Registered massage therapist will take you into one of the treatment rooms and discuss your health history and massage preferences. Massage therapy isn’t a ‘one size fits all’ activity. You need to communicate with the therapist about the specific needs you have, what you’re hoping to get out of the therapy, areas that need to be worked on and any general questions that you might have. They’re there to help you address your needs with a professional ability.
» Learn what you like
It’s a good idea to experience different types of massage to see what appeals most to you, particularly if your goal is relaxation and stress reduction. This is another important aspect to discuss with your massage therapist. After a few sessions, you’ll have a better sense of what you like, what you don’t, and you’ll be more comfortable to communicate that with your massage therapist.
» What level of undress is best?
That’s really up to you and what you’re comfortable with. Your massage therapist will leave the room to allow you to undress. But your comfort and ability to relax is a priority for our massage therapist.
Registered massage therapists are experts with draping. The point of draping is for modesty and warmth, and to create a barrier between yourself and the therapist to maintain that comfort level. Basically, the only part of you that should be uncovered is the part that is being worked on. If you choose to be fully clothed, please wear loose fitting clothing so that your body will not be restricted during your treatment.
» What happens when the service is complete?
Your massage therapist will discuss with you what conclusions they drew from the massage: how often you should get a massage, what benefits you can expect to experience over the long-term, dealing with any soreness that results, and any self-care you can engage in between sessions that will help you, such as specific stretches for a particular muscle group.
» Do we need to tip an RMT?
The answer is ‘No’. Massage therapy is often confused with the spa industry where massage is offered as a service of luxury. But Registered Massage Therapist is a primary health care professionals. You would not tip your physiotherapist, Chiropractor or Acupuncturist. Neither does your RMT.