Understand, I received no payment for this, no free services for this. I’m writing this simply because Amanda and her elbows are awesome, massage is awesome, and I want you to feel its awesomeness, too.
Have you considered a massage as a gift for yourself of someone you love?
My life changed for the better several years ago when I started seeing Amanda and her Elbows of Justice regularly at Massage Envy – a growing chain that uses a brilliant membership approach: Pay a monthly recurring fee for one hour and get discounts for additional massages, lengths, or add-ons (like Hot Stone).
I try to do 90 minutes every other week, but it’s not always possible with travel. I also see a chiropractor monthly, but that’s not quite as romantic, is it?
I know massages freak some people out.
I know I’ve gotten gift massages for people who’ve never used them. It boggles my mind why you wouldn’t want to have a professional help you take care of your body.
So, on Valentine’s Day, I asked Amanda a couple questions I thought might be frequently asked.
So, I imagine a lot of people are going to give massage gift certificates for Valentine’s Day … if someone’s going in for their first massage, is their anything you recommend they do or don’t do? Anything they should tell their therapist to make it enjoyable?
They should know it’s okay to be nervous. Trusting someone with touch that you’ve never met is not easy for everyone. Licensed Massage Therapists are trained to ease the anxiety.
Arriving early is a must. You will have to fill-out your information, medical history, and consent paperwork. This will let the therapist know what areas you are comfortable having worked on, preferred pressure, and medical care that may need special treatment. We will review with you to make sure the experience is safe and effective.
We are body readers, not mind readers. Please be vocal if at anytime you are uncomfortable or need something different. If the pressure is too much or too light then tell us. Therapists usually ask, but again, speak-up if you need.
Don’t worry if you didn’t shave your legs! I actually think a little hair helps with the friction of massage.
Now, I also bet a lot of those people will love it … but won’t go back … why do you think that is?
Life. They work crazy hours. They are taking care of someone else. Funds are low. Some people know their bodies benefit from massage and for others it’s just another experience.
What are the benefits of regular massage?
Everyone knows about the relaxing and stress reducing effects, but regular massage therapy can have effects on all the systems of the body. There are over 80 different massage modalities in the U.S. that effect the body differently. It can help manage pain from headaches to arthritis, lower blood pressure and improve circulation.
If you’re searching for a regular therapist, what are some things you should ask or look for?
How long have they worked there? If you are committed to coming regularly so should the therapist. One of the most common complaints is a client finds the right therapist and then they leave.
What types of massage they are trained in?
Some therapists know only Swedish massage, trained in many, or have a specialty. If they continually seek out education then they can grow to better customize your treatment.
And then there are people like me, who do get massages regularly, but I had no idea – for example – this hot stone thing existed until recently? What are some of the additional benefits or add-ons people should consider and why?
Massage therapy should be customized to fit your needs. The heat from the hot stone massage helps you and your muscles relax on a deeper level. Aromatherapy blends like Aches & Pains and Anxiety Release help with, well exactly what they say. Massage Envy’s Deep Heat upgrade helps with a chronic area that could use some heat and cold therapy.
Umm … is it okay to talk to my therapist? Should I be quiet? Also, is it okay to tell my therapist to pipe down if I get a chatty one? : )
Usually the therapist doesn’t talk unless spoken to or they need feedback. Some clients talk because they are nervous, need to vent and relieve the stress, or are just talkers – and that’s all good. Plus it’s good idea to get to know a person you might see frequently.
Thanks, Amanda. See you and your Elbows of Justice (and the Thumbs of Fury) soon.
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