Whether your back or neck are aching, you have been under a lot of stress, or you just want a bit of pampering, a massage is a great way to take care of things. However, if you have never had a professional massage, you may be a bit hesitant about getting naked and laying on a stranger's table. There is no need to worry as the therapist will have a new sheet for you already on the table.

You will be given your privacy as you undress, and another sheet to wrap around yourself. The therapist knows how to carefully unwrap the sheet around you to only expose the area to be worked on. Your most private areas will never be uncovered. Here are a few other things you should know before you have your first professional massage.

Gas

Because of the strokes and pressure the therapist applies to all the different areas of your body, it is not uncommon to end up expelling gas during your session. This may come out at either end. While it can be embarrassing, the therapist is not offended as they are the one to cause it to be released. 

While apologizing or excusing yourself is fine, after the first few it is not really necessary. You may also wait until you are out in the waiting room again to apologize for the outbursts. If you are very concerned about this, make sure you do not eat or drink anything that will cause a build-up of gas before going for your appointment.

Arousal

Again, while it won't always happen, do not be surprised if you become aroused during a massage. It won't matter who the therapist is; it will just happen. You have the option of addressing the situation in an adult manner, perhaps asking for a towel or pillow to cover the area, or simply apologizing. It is a good idea to acknowledge it happened and behave appropriately to keep the therapist from worrying you may expect more than they can offer. 

A simple "I'm sorry" is enough to let them know it was completely unintentional. Unfortunately, some people have the wrong impression of a professional massage and think or expect a different ending to the session. When you behave like an adult, the therapist can relax and continue.

Emotions

Do not be surprised if you end up sobbing, laughing, or feeling an emotion you had not expected. The release of tension, stress, and pain can cause you to let go and feel things you haven't felt or thought about in a long time. Let the emotions flow unless they become too much and you need to ask for a break. The therapist will not do anything you are uncomfortable with and will calmly go about the massage if you do not want them to stop.

Everyone deserves a massage every once in a while. Make an appointment, go, enjoy the time, and you might be surprised at just how much it helped, regardless of what is going on in your life. For more information on getting a therapeutic massage, contact your local massage therapist.