Well, not exactly all the way off. But we want to provide a few tips to calm down a busy brain so you can relax during your massage.
Many of us have been on the massage table, hoping for a soothing experience, but those wheels in our head keep turning. We're thinking about our grocery list, worrying about work tasks, or perhaps replaying conversations in our minds. Try these tips to refocus on your body and the present moment.
Many of us have been on the massage table, hoping for a soothing experience, but those wheels in our head keep turning. We're thinking about our grocery list, worrying about work tasks, or perhaps replaying conversations in our minds. Try these tips to refocus on your body and the present moment.
1. Close your eyes. This simple act shuts out one of the primary sensory inputs to your brain. Instead of focusing on what you SEE you can focus on what you FEEL.
2. Notice your breathing. Are you taking deep breaths that fill up your belly or is your breathing shallow and in your chest? See if you can use your breath to more fully fill your lungs and abdonmen.
Notice the length of your breaths. Does is take you at least a count of 3-4 for each inhale and exhale? See if you can slow your breaths so that it takes 4-6 breaths for each inhale and exhale.
In general, your breath should be deep and slow during a massage but still comfortable and not forced. If you're holding your breath, it may be an indicator that the pressure is too deep!
3. Focus on your therapist's hands. Notice how your muscles feel. Are there some areas that are tighter or more tender than others? Can you feel your muscles soften and relax?
If you still have trouble "turning off" your brain, let your therapist know. They can help you relax and shut down.
2. Notice your breathing. Are you taking deep breaths that fill up your belly or is your breathing shallow and in your chest? See if you can use your breath to more fully fill your lungs and abdonmen.
Notice the length of your breaths. Does is take you at least a count of 3-4 for each inhale and exhale? See if you can slow your breaths so that it takes 4-6 breaths for each inhale and exhale.
In general, your breath should be deep and slow during a massage but still comfortable and not forced. If you're holding your breath, it may be an indicator that the pressure is too deep!
3. Focus on your therapist's hands. Notice how your muscles feel. Are there some areas that are tighter or more tender than others? Can you feel your muscles soften and relax?
If you still have trouble "turning off" your brain, let your therapist know. They can help you relax and shut down.
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