·       Inform your therapist of any medical or physical conditions that might be contraindications to massage.  If in doubt, mention your condition.  If you are feeling ill today, do not get a massage.

·       Massage helps quiet the mind.  Spiritual, and even mystical experiences can be evoked.  For this reason I suggest that you set an intent for a quiet massage, allowing the thoughts and cares of everyday life to drop away for this short time and being open to whatever experience might arise.  I will assist by not engaging in a lot of conversation.  This will help keep your massage session sacred.  Do feel free to give feedback and ask questions.

·       Breathe deeply and regularly. Allow your body to relax completely, even when the therapist picks up or moves a limb or encounters a painful area.  As areas of tension or pain are located, consciously breathe in deeply and relax into the discomfort.  Try not to tense up in reaction.

·       Sometimes during a massage emotions will surface.  It will be of great benefit to honor and release them.  Let yourself cry and make sounds (while avoiding verbal dialogue.)  Your therapist is comfortable with emotional release and your privacy is assured.

·       Drink at least 2 quarts of water (past the point of thirst) during the day after your session.  If your session is in the late afternoon or evening, also drink 2 quarts of water the following day.  You are flushing the toxins released from your system and muscle tissues, which will keep your muscles healthy and relaxed longer.

·       To help alleviate post-massage soreness, soak in a hot bath with Epsom salts and/or sea salt and your favorite essential oil.  Moist heat and ice packs are also beneficial.

·       You'll probably feel more comfortable if you don't eat for about two hours before your session.

·       Remove any jewelry (necklaces, rings, bracelets, watches) that could interfere with having a smooth massage.

·       If you're concerned about getting oil on your hair or damage to your make-up, inform your therapist.  It's possible to disturb these only a little during massage.  But try to schedule your session when you can be "messed up" a little--you really don't want to miss out on scalp and facial massage!

·       Draping will be employed for relaxation and therapeutic massage.  It's hard to relax while cold.