If you have ever received a quality massage you truly know how much you benefit from it, both mentally and physically. For most of my clients who receive weekly massages they will tell you first hand that it helps them in all aspects of their life. We live such fast paced and busy lives that if we don’t remember to put ourselves at the top of our priority list we will eventually get burned out and fall into a negative state.
Here are four ways you can “upgrade” your next massage and receive maximum benefit from your hour (or 90 minutes!) on the massage bed.
Cultivate silence. Taking some time for information exchange or light chit chat is fine. Just don’t spend half your session chatting as you might with someone cutting your hair. Your awareness—and that of the practitioner working on you—can be more profound when you are both quiet. When we communicate our brains become active since we are processing information. When you are silent and soak up the sensations of the massage it can almost put you in a trance like state.
Be mindful of sensation. If you find yourself going over your day, resentments, or fantasies for some future happiness, try to return to the present. Tune in as finely as you can to the effect of every stroke of the practitioner’s hands. Examine how what’s happening in your body is reflected in your breath, your sense of warmth, and other bodily sensations. Notice any unnecessary tightening: Check for tension in your jaw, your tongue, the space between your eyes; especially pay close attention to any areas of the back or neck where you chronically get tight. Make sure you are not tensing or clenching any muscles unknowingly.
Breathe Deep. Deep breathing increases the supply of oxygen to your brain and stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes a state of calmness. Breathing techniques help you feel connected to your body—it brings your awareness away from the worries in your head and quiets your mind.
Bring Your Own Music. While typical spa music can be nice, you may just find that you are able to let go and zone out better when you are listening to music that personally speaks you. Some of my clients have suggested that I play Pink Floyd, or old school R&B during their sessions. Don’t be afraid to suggest your own music to your practitioner… It will completely enhances your experience!
Nice read very informativalableitional you have the good hands