First Massage Tips for Comfort and Relaxation

Alan Izat
Oct 13
5 min read

Getting a massage for the first time can feel a bit daunting. You might wonder what to expect, how to prepare, or even what to wear. I’ve been there, and I want to share some simple, practical tips to help you feel relaxed and comfortable from the moment you walk in. Whether you’re after a sports massage, remedial treatment, or a soothing Swedish massage, these pointers will make your first experience a breeze.

Don't forget, as part of our 10 year anniversary celebrations, we are running our special offer for new 1st time clients - get £25 off your first massage treatment! Just use the code 1TC at checkout. (If it doesn’t work the offer may have finished or changed to a new discount value.

Your Guide to First-Time Massage Advice

When you book your first massage, it’s normal to have questions. What should you tell your therapist? How should you behave? What if you don’t like the pressure? Here’s what I’ve learned that can help you get the most from your session.

Communicate openly: Tell your therapist about any injuries, pain, or areas you want them to focus on or avoid.
Arrive early: Give yourself time to relax before the massage starts. Rushing in can make you tense. However - don’t arrive too early as the therapist may still be preparing the room after the previous client and you don’t want a stressed therapist either.
Dress comfortably: Wear loose clothes that are easy to change out of. Most places provide a robe or towels.
Stay hydrated: Drink a little water before and lots after your massage to help flush out toxins.
Relax your mind: Try deep breathing or listen to calming music on the way there. If you don’t like the music in the treatment room do let the therapist know as it can be easily changed.

These simple steps can make a big difference in how you feel during and after your massage.

Eye-level view of a calm massage room with soft lighting — Massage room with soft lighting and calm atmosphere

What Should I Do for My First Massage?

You might wonder what exactly you should do when you arrive for your first massage. Here’s a quick checklist to help you feel prepared and confident.

Fill out any forms: Most places will ask you to complete a health questionnaire. Be honest about your medical history and any current issues. Ours is included with your booking form - but I will ask more specific questions in person.
Discuss your goals: Let your therapist know if you want to relax, relieve pain, or improve mobility. (Or all three!)
Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to ask about the techniques they’ll use or how firm the pressure will be.
Undress to your comfort level: You can keep underwear on if you prefer. The therapist will only work on exposed areas. If you are looking for hip flexibility or pain management I usually request men to remove their underwear (unless wearing a jock strap or similar) as deep access is important - you will be covered with a towel or drape - as this improves the flow of treatment and is easier for me to work. However, it is your choice.
Get comfortable on the table: Use the pillows and bolsters provided. Let your therapist know if anything feels uncomfortable. The new table is very adjustable and will be tweaked a bit to give you best support and comfort. So honest feedback is essential. You can of course move a little and adjust yourself during a treatment - particularly the areas not being worked on.

Remember, your therapist is there to help you feel good. They want you to enjoy the experience as much as you do.

Close-up view of massage oils and towels arranged neatly — Massage oils and towels ready for use

Tips for Comfort During Your Massage

Comfort is key to relaxation. Here are some tips to help you stay comfortable throughout your session.

Speak up about pressure: If the massage feels too hard or too soft, tell your therapist immediately.
Use the restroom beforehand: This helps you relax without interruptions. There is one right in the room. (You can also get changed in there if you feel shy at first - though the therapist will generally leave you alone to get changed anyway)
Breathe deeply: Slow, deep breathing helps your muscles relax and improves the massage’s effectiveness.
Stay warm: If you feel cold, ask for an extra blanket or towel. The therapist is working hard so will not feel as cold, however if you feel cold they will probably check in on your comfort. The room has a heater and a fan - so also if you are too warm, do let me know.
Avoid heavy meals: Try not to eat a big meal right before your massage to avoid discomfort.
Getting aroused: if you suddenly feel hyper aroused during the treatment it is best to let it run its course. Touch is a very intimate thing and you are allowing a stranger to touch parts of your body that may not often - or ever - get touched by others. Even have your ear lobes touched can be unexpectedly arousing for sone people. The therapist will respect this and respond respectfully; using drapes, changing pressure, working on a different area. You can concentrate on your breathing, the beat or rhythm of the music, and relax and let it go. If you are feeling hyper anxious- let the therapist know and they can cover you completely and give you 5 minutes of time out.

These small actions can help you get the most out of your time on the table.

After Your Massage: What to Expect and Do

Once your massage is over, you might feel a bit light-headed or tired. This is normal and means your body is releasing tension. Here’s what you can do next.

Take your time: sit on the edge of the table for a minute before standing. This lets your blood pressure stabilise after dropping during treatment.
Drink plenty of water: This helps flush out toxins released during the massage.
Need to "de-oil"?: There is a shower room in the treatment area - just ask if you would like to use it... but don’t take too warm a shower.
Take it easy: Avoid strenuous activities for the rest of the day (or at least 2 hours after your treatment ends).
Notice how you feel: Some soreness is normal after deep tissue manipulation, but it should fade within a day. If anything feels worse rather than better do let the therapist know.
Book follow-up sessions: Regular massages can improve your overall wellbeing. And it is often impossible to “fix “a severe or chronic issue in one session.
Give feedback: Let your therapist know what worked well and what could be better next time.

Taking care of yourself after the massage helps extend the benefits.

High angle view of a peaceful spa waiting area with plants — Peaceful spa waiting area with plants and soft lighting

Ready to Book Your First Massage?

If you’re feeling ready to try a massage, remember that preparation and communication are your best friends. Use these first massage tips to make your experience smooth and enjoyable. Whether you want to ease muscle pain, improve flexibility, or just relax, a good massage can do wonders.

Booking with a trusted therapist who listens to your needs is key. Don’t be shy about asking questions or sharing your preferences. Your comfort and relaxation are the top priorities.

Don't forget, as part of our 10 year anniversary celebrations, we are running our special offer for new 1st time clients - get £25 off your first massage treatment! Just use the code 1TC at checkout. (If it doesn’t work the offer may have finished or changed to a new discount value.

Your Guide to First-Time Massage Advice

When you book your first massage, it’s normal to have questions. What should you tell your therapist? How should you behave? What if you don’t like the pressure? Here’s what I’ve learned that can help you get the most from your session.

Communicate openly: Tell your therapist about any injuries, pain, or areas you want them to focus on or avoid.

Arrive early: Give yourself time to relax before the massage starts. Rushing in can make you tense. However - don’t arrive too early as the therapist may still be preparing the room after the previous client and you don’t want a stressed therapist either.

Dress comfortably: Wear loose clothes that are easy to change out of. Most places provide a robe or towels.

Stay hydrated: Drink a little water before and lots after your massage to help flush out toxins.

Relax your mind: Try deep breathing or listen to calming music on the way there. If you don’t like the music in the treatment room do let the therapist know as it can be easily changed.

These simple steps can make a big difference in how you feel during and after your massage.

What Should I Do for My First Massage?

You might wonder what exactly you should do when you arrive for your first massage. Here’s a quick checklist to help you feel prepared and confident.

Fill out any forms: Most places will ask you to complete a health questionnaire. Be honest about your medical history and any current issues. Ours is included with your booking form - but I will ask more specific questions in person.

Discuss your goals: Let your therapist know if you want to relax, relieve pain, or improve mobility. (Or all three!)

Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to ask about the techniques they’ll use or how firm the pressure will be.

Remember, your therapist is there to help you feel good. They want you to enjoy the experience as much as you do.

Tips for Comfort During Your Massage

Comfort is key to relaxation. Here are some tips to help you stay comfortable throughout your session.

Speak up about pressure: If the massage feels too hard or too soft, tell your therapist immediately.

Use the restroom beforehand: This helps you relax without interruptions. There is one right in the room. (You can also get changed in there if you feel shy at first - though the therapist will generally leave you alone to get changed anyway)

Breathe deeply: Slow, deep breathing helps your muscles relax and improves the massage’s effectiveness.

Stay warm: If you feel cold, ask for an extra blanket or towel. The therapist is working hard so will not feel as cold, however if you feel cold they will probably check in on your comfort. The room has a heater and a fan - so also if you are too warm, do let me know.

Avoid heavy meals: Try not to eat a big meal right before your massage to avoid discomfort.

These small actions can help you get the most out of your time on the table.

After Your Massage: What to Expect and Do

Once your massage is over, you might feel a bit light-headed or tired. This is normal and means your body is releasing tension. Here’s what you can do next.

Take your time: sit on the edge of the table for a minute before standing. This lets your blood pressure stabilise after dropping during treatment.

Drink plenty of water: This helps flush out toxins released during the massage.

Need to "de-oil"?: There is a shower room in the treatment area - just ask if you would like to use it... but don’t take too warm a shower.

Take it easy: Avoid strenuous activities for the rest of the day (or at least 2 hours after your treatment ends).

Notice how you feel: Some soreness is normal after deep tissue manipulation, but it should fade within a day. If anything feels worse rather than better do let the therapist know.

Book follow-up sessions: Regular massages can improve your overall wellbeing. And it is often impossible to “fix “a severe or chronic issue in one session.

Give feedback: Let your therapist know what worked well and what could be better next time.

Taking care of yourself after the massage helps extend the benefits.

Ready to Book Your First Massage?

If you’re feeling ready to try a massage, remember that preparation and communication are your best friends. Use these first massage tips to make your experience smooth and enjoyable. Whether you want to ease muscle pain, improve flexibility, or just relax, a good massage can do wonders.

Booking with a trusted therapist who listens to your needs is key. Don’t be shy about asking questions or sharing your preferences. Your comfort and relaxation are the top priorities.

Give yourself the gift of a massage. You deserve it. Go to our book online page now to get started.

And finally - don’t forget that first time discount code - 1TC

See you soon!!

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