You will be required to fill out a health screening form. The therapist will then ask you general questions to establish what areas you would like worked on and if there are any conditions needing to be addressed. Your massage therapist may perform certain assessments and testing to evaluate your condition and to see if you have any presenting complaints.

It is important to list all health concerns and medications so the therapist can adapt the session to your specific needs. It is also important to list any allergies so the therapist is aware if he/she needs to use a different oil or lotion during the session.

Make yourself comfortable. If your therapist wants you to adjust your position, she/he will move you. Otherwise, change your position anytime to make yourself more comfortable. Many people close their eyes and relax completely during a session; others prefer to talk. It's up to you. It is your massage, and whatever feels natural to you is the best way to relax. Also, let him/her know if you get too warm or too cold, if the room is too bright, or if the pressure needs to be changed (lighter or deeper). If something is not working for you - let them know. Do not hesitate to ask questions at any time.

This is known as draping. Once you are undressed (you may keep your briefs/underwear on) and on the table under the drape, the therapist will only uncover the part of your body being worked on.

The average full-body massage treatment lasts approximately one hour. A half-hour appointment can be a good way to get specific areas worked on, such as neck and shoulders, back or legs and feet. Many people prefer a 60 to 90-minute session for optimal relaxation. To get the most out of your treatment allow for relaxation time prior to and after the session.

It varies from person to person. If you are looking to address a specific condition, then it is recommended to go more frequently at first and then slowly taper down to a maintenance schedule. Sometimes more frequent 30-minute sessions can be effective until your goals are met and a maintenance schedule is in place. If you are looking for some occasional relaxation, then a session every 3-4 weeks may be right for you. Frequency of sessions should be discussed with your massage therapist after your treatment when he/she has a better hands-on understanding of your particular muscular issues.

You should not book a massage if you have a fever, cold/flu, or contagious skin infection. There are many other conditions in which your therapist may need to adapt his/her techniques (i.e. arthritis or osteoporosis) or avoid an area completely (i.e. cuts or burns). With some conditions it is a good idea to get an approval from your physician before you receive massage (cancer, certain heart conditions, pregnancy). Always make your therapist aware of any medical conditions.