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Articles > My First Massage
My First Massage
by Chris Marcus
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I just started back at the gym from a long break and my muscles
were aching like crazy. I was leaving the gym in a limp when a
gentleman stopped me to ask what was wrong. I explained that I
had just finished a hard work out and would probably be
paying for it later. He suggested I get a massage and explained
that it was very beneficial. He claimed that it really helped him
recuperate and improved his overall mood as well. I didn’t think
much of it at the time but the next day I woke up I was so sore it felt like
some witch doctor had pins drilled in me. It wasn't to long afterward that I was looking for a good
massage therapist to ease my sore muscles.
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The gym had a list of different people to choose from and there were
all different types of massage therapists and certifications. I found
that in order to be a massage therapist you had to be licensed and
display your license number. To get your license you went through a
series of training courses and continuing education courses. This sounded
nice since I did not want someone who did not know what they were doing
potentially hurting me.
After selecting the therapist I scheduled an appointment later that
evening. Upon arrival I found that the room was very quiet with some very
soothing music playing in the background. In the middle of the room was the
massage table. Candles and other items were scattered around the room for
effect. It was very relaxing and my nerves were already starting to calm down.
The massage itself starts after you undress and place a towel over yourself.
You can wear your underwear if you want – I did the first time.
The Massage Therapist did everything from my head to even between my toes and fingers!
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The massage therapist starts by asking you what you want to have worked on
and/or where you hurt. I explained that I had worked out extremely hard on
legs the night before and that was an area of concern. They also explain the
feedback during the massage, especially if you hurt, is encouraged.
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The massage started with me laying face down. The therapist starts on the
back and works their way down. They use a gel or oil to help move the hands over
the body so not to pull skin or hair. After about twenty or so minutes you
turn over and they begin on the front. The do everything from the outside of
your shoulders to between your toes and fingers! It was truly pampering and very relaxing.
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After about an hour the therapist began to work on my face and the back of my
neck. I never new there were so many different muscles to work on and the head
scratching was something totally unexpected but very enjoyable.
The final minutes of the massage were spent in silence with some slow stretching
exercises and a final meditative touch to the chest and head. I was totally relaxed
and my body felt renewed.
Finally the massage therapist and I tallied up the bill. It is
considered proper to tip a massage therapist, especially one who works for another
company, if you feel they did an exceptional job. I tipped this one very well,
got dressed and was off to bed. When you get home you are supposed to drink a
full glass of water just after the massage to help cleanse your system. I
did just that and slept like a rock. I now have at least one massage a
month and it is well worth the money!
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