07/28/2025
Massage therapy is a complex and dynamic field of study. In general, when we say massage or massage therapy, it is with a therapeutic connotation. Its very basic meaning is moving the tissue of a person (or other animal). If the word therapy or any of its variations are present, it denotes an intended health benefit to the receiver.
Massage therapy is meant to help with healing or prevent ailing.
When someone goes to a spa for massage it is meant for healing. I work in a small private practice with a clinical approach which is also meant for healing. You should be relaxed while I knead and stretch the muscles or otherwise work to encourage lymph movement. You may be asked to more actively participate depending on the type of technique being used to address and change a particular problem.
Some people doze off, some talk about plans or stressors. Some therapists will encourage you to be calm quiet, others will be supportive of talking related, or not, to the main goal of the sessions. Some talking such as reporting tenderness or other experiences during the sessions are necessary, and need to be shared and not avoided. In massage therapy, don't be silent about pain. It's all part of the process.
Be sure to communicate with your therapist about your whole experience so they are able to tailor the sessions and treatment plan in order to properly serve you.
Thanks. I'll see you soon.
