What to Expect
Some people find the idea of a massage to be a bit daunting. Not really knowing what to expect, they sometimes forgo the experience rather than place themselves in an uncomfortable situations. This doesn’t have to be the case at all, and a good massage therapist will help you to relax and feel comfortable.
What Happens When I First Get There?
When you first arrive at Open Hands Massage, you will be greeted at the door and shown into a waiting area. Here you will be offered a glass of water or other drink while you wait. If it is your first visit, you will be asked to fill in some necessary paperwork where you will be asked your contact details, your relevant medical history, and why you are seeking a massage.
What Happens When I Meet the Therapist?
Darren will then greet you and take you into the clinic. The clinic is a clean cosy room with its own heating and cooling. The lighting is subdued and relaxing ambient music quietly fills the air. Darren will examine your paperwork and ask you any pertinent questions regarding your condition or requirements. If necessary, he will also perform a number of tests to ascertain the degree or any injury or condition that you present. During the examination Darren is very professional and provides full disclosure of what he discovers. This examination is performed while you are still clothed, though you may be required to remove your shoes.
Do I Need To Get Undressed?
Once the examination is conclude, Darren will ask you do disrobe down to your underwear and lay down on the table and drape a towel over you. Darren always leaves the room for a few moments to provide you with privacy. While most people are happy to disrobe down to their underwear, some women feel more comfortable if they leave their bra on. This is not a problem as Darren is able to work around this. If you are uncomfortable disrobing, a massage can be applied over your clothes, but this form of massage isn’t as effective as one applied directly to the skin.
How Does the Massage Start?
Before Darren re-enters the room he will knock on the door and ask if you are ready. On your reply he comes in, closes the door behind him and begins the massage. At first the massage begins on top of the towel, with Darren applying some pressure on your upper body, moving down to your feet and then back up again. At this point he will remove the towel from the appropriate area and begin the massage by applying oil and long soothing strokes.
Will the Massage Hurt?
While massage can be soothing and relaxing, it is normal to occasionally feel some pain during the treatment, especially if you requested a remedial or sports massage. This is perfectly normal, and Darren will listen to your feedback regarding any pain and adjust the treatment accordingly.
What Happens when the Massage is Finished?
When the treatment is concluded, Darren will once again leave the room and wait for you in the waiting area, allowing you some to yourself to relax and get up when you are ready. Once you are dressed and leave the clinic room, Darren will have a glass of water for you, and he will ask how you feel. At this point Darren may advise and demonstrate to you any exercises or stretches he feels would be beneficial for your condition.