How many times have you daydreamed about that massage therapy? And, finally, your dream is going to come true.

However, if you want to get the best out of your first massage therapy, here are some tips.

#1. Avoid Drinking Alcohol

To all the drunkards out there (including me),

I know there’s nothing more refreshing than an ice-cold light beer with a plate of spicy chicken wings or a Guinness with a juice steak (sounds yummy, isn’t it?). But, if you’ve got a massage therapy scheduled, don’t even dream about mixing booze and massage.

Why most massage professionals strongly suggest against having alcohol before a massage? A massage is a great mood enhancer but is also a treatment that has a powerful impact on the body and the same goes for alcohol.

See, one benefit of massage is that it can boost your immune system. On the other hand, drinking alcohol can weaken it. So, when you are combining the two, you will most probably lose this crucial health benefit.

Both massage and alcohol are well-known for their dehydrating effects. But, what do you think happens when massage interacts with alcohol? Your hangover symptoms intensify.

#2. Stay Hydrated

While alcohol is all no-no-and-no, water is a huge yes!

We always hear to stay hydrated throughout the day, but here it is very important to go to your massage session properly hydrated. And, for those who are not are really water-drinkers (like me, as I am more of the alcohol type – yes, I live for booze), you can at least try to choke down water (as much as possible) 24 hours before your massage session.

The reason: Sometimes, stressed or strained muscles can lead to inflammation and the build-up of toxins, which obviously is harmful to the body as nutrients and oxygen are blocked. But, a massage can break up and release these toxins and release your blood and oxygen circulation. And, water plays an important role here as it helps to flush out those released toxins.

#3. Take a Warm Bath

To be honest, the whole adult bathing thing never made sense to me (any bath haters here?). I mean, right when you turn on the faucet, the water is either skin-burning hot or Atlantic-ice-like cold. And, don’t get me started on how the water always seems to seep out of the drain sneakily. Oh, it seems like I am going out of the subject, sorry!

Where was I?

Most massage professionals recommend a warm shower before your massage session. And, even though you will end up cursing the whole bath as soon as you dip your toe in (I am referring to bath haters – my best friends), the shower is important as it will have a relaxation effect on both your mind and body which will help you to be less tense during your massage session.

Besides, I am sure the massage therapists will not like touching a body covered with sweat, grease or even lube.

#4. Avoid Sunbathe

Do you know how it feels to have somebody rubbing your sunburnt skin? Horrible, isn’t it?

Well, if you want to avoid this situation, try your best to stay out of direct sunlight before the massage session so as to prevent any sunburn.

#5. What Happens if You Feel Sick?

Just like those romantic feelings, you cannot control your immune system. And, if unfortunately, you fell sick or had to take an injection, it is best if you cancel the session and reschedule it for a few days or weeks later when you are in better condition.

#6. Avoid Eating Right Before

Are you thinking about having a large meal right before your massage session? If you want to feel very uncomfortable, sure, go ahead.

I am not saying to starve yourself, but what you can do is to have a light snack before your session.

I know how much you look forward to your first massage therapy. And, trust me, if you follow these simple tips, your experience would be as relaxing as possible.