In all traditional massage, the therapist lubricates the skin with massage oil and performs various massage strokes. These movements warm up the muscle tissue, releasing tension and gradually breaking up muscle “knots” or adhered tissues, called adhesions. This type of massage promotes relaxation, among other health benefits. During the massage you are generally nude underneath a towel. The therapist uncovers only the part of the body she is working on, a technique called draping. If nudity gets you out of your comfort zone, you can keep your underwear on, and many newcomers do.

Before your first massage, you will be asked to fill in a form and will discuss any injuries or other conditions that therapist should know about.You can also discuss up front if you have a preference for light or firm pressure, if you know. If you want deeper work and can tolerate more pressure to get relief from chronic muscle pain, it’s better to have a deep tissue traditional massage. If you have pain, it will likely take a series of massages to get results. Therapist will leave the room while you prepare for the massage.