Dating back thousands of years, massage therapy is a tried-and-true technique to boost both physical and mental wellness. Here are our top tips to make the most of your massage experience.

Good to Know

Before booking an appointment, be sure to do some research to find the right type of massage for you, a reputable clinic and a therapist with the appropriate education and training. It may take a few tries to find the right location, practitioner and treatment for you, so don’t be afraid to keep looking until you discover the perfect fit.

Oil Up

Oils help create a relaxing massage experience by allowing the therapist's hands or tools to glide easily over the body. To replicate this pampering experience at home, here are some of our picks:

 

L’OCCITANE Almond Supple Skin Oil, $58

ATTITUDE Leaves Bar Sea Salt Dry Body Oil, $23

DANS UN JARDIN Kälm Massage Oil, $20

After Your Massage

To get the most out of your massage session, your therapist may provide suggestions for after your treatment. Common tips are:

1. Drink water or caffeine-free herbal teas.
2. Eat a healthy snack, such as fruits or veggies.
3. Perform some light movement, like walking, but avoid strenuous exercise.

Self-Massage Essentials

Maintain that relaxed, rejuvenated feeling between professional appointments by performing a self-massage at home with one of these products.

 

Massage Balls

Available in different sizes, textures and resistance levels, massage balls help work out knots, release tension, increase blood flow and decrease muscle soreness. Release and Recover MASSAGE BALL SET, $34

 

Massage Stick

With spindles to provide a deep tissue massage, a massage stick can reduce stiffness and pain by targeting the arms, legs, neck or anywhere else plagued with muscle tightness. Evoke Mini MASSAGE STICK, $30

 

Foam Roller

With a wide range of densities, sizes and textures, foam rollers are versatile tools for self-massage, regardless of where you feel aches and pains. Gaiam Restore 12" Compact FOAM ROLLER, $28