It's not unusual to feel some soreness after a massage. This is due to a release of lactic acid in the muscles, but it doesn't last long. You may also have some discomfort during your massage. This depends on the area being worked on, any pre-existing pains, and whether the therapist is using too much pressure. In which case, you can always ask for less pressure at any time if it’s uncomfortable.

No. You will be asked to remove clothing only as far as you feel comfortable. If you only want to undress to your underwear, that's fine.

The therapist will leave the room while you're undressing and will provide towels and blankets to cover you during the massage.

We all have parts of our body we're self-conscious about. Some areas you may be concerned about are:

• Your weight
• Unwanted body hair
• Scars
• Acne or other skin blemishes

Please don't let this stop you from getting a massage. If you're sensitive about a particular area, ask to avoid it. You can also opt for a fully clothed massage.

Massage therapy is a great natural solution when you want relief from pain, but it can also be used as a preventive treatment too. Seeing your massage therapist regularly can help:

• Lower cortisol and raise serotonin levels to calm and relax your body
• Loosen tight muscles, which may increase blood flow, leading to lowering your blood pressure

When it comes to massage frequently asked questions, this is a common one. It's normal to fall asleep during a massage. You might be feeling stressed and sleep-deprived, so falling asleep is normal once you're in a relaxed state.

There's zero judgment if you snore, in fact it’s a compliment!

Drooling is also common, especially if you're on your front.

Massage is excellent for relaxation! But it also has many other benefits.

Massage helps with chronic muscle aches and pains. It helps to reduce stress and ease muscle tension. It's also great to improve circulation, alleviate breathing problems, lower your blood pressure, reduce headaches, improve your daily mobility and wellbeing, and help you manage anxiety and depression. Massage also helps to promote good, healthy sleep.

Yes! A good massage therapist will check in with you during your massage to make sure the pressure is okay.

Be mindful that massage doesn't have to cause you pain to be effective. Some massage techniques are pretty gentle. But do speak up and ask if you'd like more or less pressure during your session.

We recommend going to the bathroom before your session, but it can occasionally happen that you'll need to go during the massage. Do speak up and use it whenever you feel the need.

When you're in a relaxed state, you might pass gas during your massage. It may even occur when the therapist applies direct pressure to a particular area.

Any massage therapist will let you know this is normal and just shows you're relaxed. If you can't bear to let it happen, just excuse yourself to go to the bathroom.

Some people prefer to chat during their massage session but don't feel you have to make conversation. If you want to close your eyes and relax, that’s alright.

Do speak up if:

• You're feeling hot or cold
• You're in pain
• You have questions, or you forgot to mention something important during the consultation

Let me know before your session. I can use firm, slow pressure or, if you're extremely sensitive, I can avoid your tickle spots.

Do your research by checking out their website or calling them to find out what services they offer. A reputable clinic will offer therapeutic massage from licensed or certified therapists. They'll also always get you to do a health questionnaire on your first visit.

Yes, but to get the most benefit from your massage, it is best to work out before. Your muscles will likely be tired from the exercise but warmed up for the massage. Working out immediately after could cause strain to your body or result in your being tired and accidentally causing injury. It is best to wait 12-24 hours before exercising to let your muscles recover.

In general, a few conditions would prevent you from getting a massage. Of course, do not schedule an appointment if you feel unwell or have a fever, cold, or contagious skin condition.

The first trimester of pregnancy is generally considered off-limits for massage, as are active chemotherapy or other intensive medical treatments. If you have a serious medical condition and are unsure if a massage would be safe for you, we recommend you speak with your primary care provider to get approval first.

Massage is generally considered safe for expecting mothers in their second and third trimesters. Please let your massage therapist know that you are pregnant (especially if you haven’t started showing) so they can customize the techniques used, the areas treated, and how you are positioned on the massage table.

Massage reduces swelling, relieves aching muscles, and soothes joint pain. The American Pregnancy Association attests to the powerful benefits of massage therapy during pregnancy, including improved hormone regulation, reduced nerve pain, and fewer complications during birth.

Individual preference varies, so for most, it depends on your pain, physical needs, emotional needs, and of course, budget. Receiving a massage regularly has the most benefit; this can be as often as weekly or monthly.