How to Prepare for Your Massage Appointment

Proper preparation can significantly enhance your massage therapy experience and results. Follow these simple guidelines to get the most from your session in Brentwood.

24 Hours Before Your Massage

Hydration

• Drink plenty of water - Start hydrating the day before
• Avoid excessive caffeine - Limit to your normal morning coffee
• No alcohol - Dehydrates muscles and reduces massage effectiveness

Physical Activity

• Light exercise is fine - Walking, yoga, gentle stretching
• Avoid intense workouts - Don't do heavy lifting or strenuous exercise
• No sunbathing - Sunburned skin cannot be massaged

The Day of Your Massage

Eating and Drinking

• Eat light - Have a small meal 1-2 hours before
• Avoid heavy, greasy foods - Can cause discomfort lying face down
• Don't arrive hungry - Low blood sugar can cause dizziness
• Drink water - Stay hydrated leading up to your session

Personal Hygiene

• Shower beforehand - You'll feel fresh and comfortable
• Skip heavy perfumes/colognes - Strong scents in small room can be overwhelming
• Remove jewelry - Earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings before arriving
• Tie back long hair - More comfortable for face-down positions

Shaving Considerations

• Shaving is NOT required - We work with all body types as you are
• If you choose to shave - Do it the night before, not day-of
• Fresh shaving can irritate - Massage oils may sting newly shaved skin

What to Wear

To Your Appointment

• Comfortable, loose clothing - Easy to remove and put back on
• Minimal layers - Saves time changing
• Simple undergarments - No complicated clasps or fasteners
• Comfortable shoes - You may feel relaxed and unsteady after

What You'll Wear During Massage

• Undress to your comfort level (usually to underwear or fully unclothed)
• You'll be draped with sheets - only area being worked is exposed
• Some massage types (Thai, sports) may be done clothed

Arrival Time

First Visit

• Arrive 10-15 minutes early - Time for paperwork
• Bring valid ID - Required for first appointment
• Bring insurance card - If applicable
• List of medications - If you take any

Return Visits

• Arrive 5 minutes early - No paperwork needed
• Check in at reception - Update any health changes

What to Bring

Essential Items

• Payment method (cash, credit/debit card, HSA/FSA card)
• Health insurance card (if seeking reimbursement)
• List of current medications or health conditions

Optional Items

• Change of comfortable clothes for after session
• Water bottle (we provide water but bring your own if preferred)
• Hair tie for long hair
• Reading material for brief wait if running early

What NOT to Bring

• Valuables - Leave expensive jewelry at home
• Children - Unless they have their own appointment
• Strong expectations - Come with an open mind

Mental Preparation

Set Your Intention

• Think about your primary goal (pain relief, stress reduction, relaxation)
• Identify specific problem areas to mention
• Note any areas to avoid (injuries, sensitive spots)
• Consider pressure preferences (light, medium, deep)

Manage Expectations

• One session won't fix chronic issues - But will provide relief
• You might feel sore after - Normal for deep tissue work
• Benefits develop over time - Especially with regular sessions
• Communicate throughout - Speak up about pressure and comfort

Specific Situations

If You're Sick

• Reschedule if you have: Fever, flu, cold, contagious illness
• Call ahead if: You're unsure whether to come in
• Minor allergies are okay - But mention them

If You Have an Injury

• Inform therapist of recent injuries (even minor ones)
• Bring doctor's notes if relevant
• Discuss whether massage is appropriate
• Identify specific areas to avoid

If You're Pregnant

• Book a prenatal massage specifically
• Inform us how far along you are
• Bring doctor's clearance if high-risk pregnancy
• Mention any pregnancy complications

If You Have Skin Conditions

• Inform therapist of rashes, eczema, psoriasis
• Mention if you have open wounds or sores
• Discuss oil/lotion allergies or sensitivities
• Ask about hypoallergenic options

Communication Preparation

Be Ready to Discuss

• Current pain or problem areas
• Past injuries or surgeries
• Current medications
• Health conditions (diabetes, blood pressure, etc.)
• Previous massage experiences
• Pressure and technique preferences
• Areas to avoid or focus on

Questions to Ask

• "What type of massage do you recommend for my issue?"
• "How often should I come for best results?"
• "What can I do at home to maintain benefits?"
• "Are there any exercises or stretches you recommend?"

What NOT to Do Before Your Massage

Maximize Your Results

For Pain Relief

• Clearly identify problem areas
• Mention when pain started and what triggers it
• Discuss if you've tried other treatments
• Be honest about pain levels during session

For Stress Reduction

• Avoid stressful phone calls beforehand
• Put phone on silent during session
• Practice deep breathing before and during
• Let yourself fully relax - don't fight the experience

For Athletic Recovery

• Schedule massage within 24-48 hours of event/workout
• Identify which muscle groups you worked
• Hydrate well before and after
• Plan light training day after massage

Quick Preparation Checklist

Use this checklist before your appointment: