Last year on Mother’s Day, my husband proudly announced that he scheduled a massage for me.
I panicked.
First, I was not the massage type. Scratch that… massage, yes, but massage by a total stranger? No.
Second, I could think of two things I would rather do with $50: shop Kohls, then hit Starbuck’s.
Third, what in the world do I do during a massage?? Talk? Listen to my iPod? Strip? To what? I was uncomfortable just thinking about it.
Now, a year later, it was the best gift ever. I was pleasantly surprised to find that it wasn’t just a luxury, but a real massage from a real massage therapist. Shannon knows her muscle groups, explains the role of lactic acid, and really works the deep tissue treatment. So much, in fact, that it’s borderline painful. If you’re fortunate to find a massage therapist that can do all that, she’s worth her weight in gold.
Massage therapists are professionals who treat you with respect and privacy. They leave the room when you change your clothes. It’s up to you what clothing to leave on, and the parts you’d expect to stay covered, are covered.
By touch, massage therapists know what muscle groups need work and which areas are tender. They work with you to give the most amount of pressure possible without causing you (too much) pain. Personally, I try to endure the most pain because then I know I’m getting the best work done.
To get the best of your massage, don’t bother wearing make up, and don’t make plans to shop afterward. In fact, do what I do: get a chiropractic adjustment immediately following the massage. You can expect to feel very sore afterwards. And you should drink, drink, drink plenty of water following your massage. If you can, go home and rest.
A year later, I’m back for my Mother’s Day massage. But this massage joins the thirty-some massages I’ve received since last Mother’s Day.
Massage Oil Recipe
For every 6 ounces of carrier oil, add 20-30 drops of essential oil
Carrier oils can be: almond oil, apricot kernel oil, fractionated (liquid) coconut oil, or jojoba oil.
Essential oils can be whatever you prefer, or mix up a blend!
