What to Expect
Welcome to Best Massage Therapy!
To help you feel more relaxed, I want you to know what will happen during our massage session.
Here is what to do to prepare:
Make your first appointment on my MassageBook page. That’s the software that helps me book clients and manage my business. Call me if you’d prefer to make your appointment over the phone.
Look for an Intake Form in your email inbox. Fill out that form online before your first appointment, early enough that I can review it in advance. I do not have paper copies here—it’s all stored securely on MassageBook.
Drink lots of water before (and after) your appointment. This makes a huge difference in how effective the massage will be and how long the positive results will last.
What to expect on the day of your session:
Wear comfortable clothes. You’re here to relax.
Come to the address MassageBook sent to you in your email confirmation. Knock on the door at the time of your appointment, and I’ll let you in.
To begin:
I’ll take you upstairs to the studio. You will need to climb a few stairs onto the porch, and a flight of stairs to the second floor. There are If you have restricted mobility PLEASE CALL.
We’ll sit and have a conversation about your goals and your health. This is a great time for questions!
Before I leave the room, I’ll ask you to take off as many clothes as you feel comfortable—and no more. Most clients leave nothing on, but you should keep yourself comfortable at all times. Get on the table and cover yourself with the sheet and blanket. I will knock before I reenter.
You will be covered by a sheet and a blanket at all times. I will uncover the limb I’m working on, one at a time. Your private areas will always be covered.
I’ll ask whether the table and/or headrest are comfortable. I will place a bolster under your knees or ankles.
I may take a moment to ground myself before making contact. I will start the massage.
During the massage:
A few times during the session, I will ask whether the pressure feels good. If you want more or less pressure, just ask and I will adjust. I do my best to recognize nonverbal cues of discomfort, but everyone’s cues are different. Please communicate with words.
You have the power here. This is about you. As a massage therapist, I only want you to feel comfortable and relaxed. If you feel uncomfortable at any time, just tell me. I’ll stop, and we’ll decide together what to do next.
After 60 (or 90, or 120) minutes, the massage will end. I will leave the room. Take your time getting up and getting dressed.
After the massage:
Please open the door when you’re ready for me to come back in.
We’ll briefly talk about how it went, what you noticed and how you feel.
I’ll ask for feedback. Did anything feel bad, painful, or just unproductive? And what felt good? This helps me learn about your unique body. And it helps you get an even better massage next time.
If you have not paid in advance, I will request payment. If you wish to tip, you’ll have the opportunity.
I’ll remind you to drink lots of water to hydrate your soft tissues. They need it!
You can make your next appointment right then. This is the best time, because you’re here and you won’t need to remember to do it later. If you plan to come regularly, consider a monthly membership to save money.
I'm honored that you chose The Best Massage Therapy, and I'm looking forward to working with you! Reach out if you have any questions—text is the most reliable way to reach me. If you call and I don’t answer the phone, please leave a voicemail.
Be well,
Anna Best, LMT
