What Type of Massage Should I Get?

by Pallas Hutchison

Technology has put appointment scheduling into the hands of the client. While more convenient for some, it also creates a whole new problem for clients. With so many different types of massage and bodywork available, choosing what type of appointment to book can be challenging, especially if you are new to massage or the business doesn't describe their services adequately. To make this less overwhelming, I have constructed a flow chart based on the services offered at Oasis Massage to help with the decision.

As a massage therapist, my job is to help you assess and meet your bodywork goals safely and efficiently. Sounds pretty fancy but it's mostly a matter of asking the right questions. My general rule-of-thumb with new clients is to book their first appointment as a "Specialty" massage. This gives me the freedom to use a variety of techniques until we find the style that suits them best. Swedish massage, one of the better known styles, is also well-suited as an introductory style of massage.

Once you've decided what kind of massage you want, decide how long your massage should be. Different session lengths suit different goals. A full body massage could be accomplished in 30-45 minutes but it will feel rushed, leaving both the client and the practitioner unsatisfied by the experience. However, if you only want one area worked on, then 30 minutes at a time may provide pain relief without overworking the area of complaint. Availability and affordability may also play a part in deciding how long a session to book.

Remember, the farther ahead you schedule, the more likely you are to get the session time and duration that you want. 

How Often Should I Get a Massage?