One of the questions I often get asked regarding Massage-

“How much do I need to come in and see you”?

This is a delicate question because most people would benefit greatly from getting 1-2 massages a week. Personally, I know that if I could… I’d get a massage every week, acupuncture, have a personal trainer and a cook that makes organic healthy great tasting meals each day:) However, many services are not covered by insurance, and many people these days are very busy.

So to be realistic- what I recommend is that one prioritizes time and finances regarding health and wellness. Some of the ways to look at this are:

Rate yourself from 1-10 regarding your pain level. If you are in a lot of pain, you may want to come in twice a week. Massage and bodywork can work wonders for relieving pain. The more work you receive, the better you’ll feel in most cases. Also remember, that while your pain levels most likely will decrease with each session, that if you have been putting off your health challenges for long time, it might take a while to get healthier again. For example- to work with postural alignment issues, count on the basic 10 sessions for a good foundation at 90 minutes a pop.
Finances are an important part of everyday life. Yet I do see people who go out to eat and drop $75.00 for a meal, but look for the cheapest massage deal they can find. Remember that you usually get what you pay for. If you are looking for a professional massage therapist with a lot of experience in bodywork, expect to budget for the best. After all, you do deserve to have your needs met, and actually exceeded. Someone who works at a big office for a low price is usually right out of school and doesn’t have the same qualifications as someone who has been practicing for 15 years.
Often people wait until they are in pain before they get massage. If you can afford it, treat yourself to some massage and bodywork bi-weekly or monthly just to stay feeling more fit and flexible. It’s much easier to move back into health when you haven’t strayed far. Being proactive in anything is smart.
Interview therapists. Each therapist is unique and has an array of different tools that they use to best serve their clients. Make sure that your Massage Therapist listens well and is educated about how they can help. Some protocols call for 10 sessions, some are based on your needs. But a good therapist will give you a general idea of a treatment plan that you can both agree to.
I often give my clients exercises or homework to do when they go home. If your budget is tight and you don’t have the means for this type of self-care on a regular basis- make sure you are doing some type of lengthening and opening exercise like yoga, pilates, gyrotonics, Feldenkrais etc… All of these help you to strengthen your core while releasing restrictions in the body. If you can do both, that is wonderful.

Your health is important. Too many people tend to ignore symptoms of pain and discomfort. Begin listening to your body when you are young. Eat well, Exercise, Stay hydrated, and get plenty of rest. As soon as you start to feel yourself losing balance, energy, or strength, turn it around by finding a local therapist near you to help you feel your best. Your intuition and self-mindful awareness will tell you what you need to do.

Warmly,

Sharon Hartnett LMT & CST

Columbus, Ohio