Plan Your Pre-Wedding Massage

By Sara Daly

Massage is one of the best ways to de-stress, rejuvenate and give your mind and body a chance to relax. Massage is an important part of a wellness inspired lifestyle.

Massage is recommended prior to your wedding to give you and your husband-to-be a special moment to relax, unwind, and connect with your bodies. Massage has been proven to help fight infection, boost immune systems, reduce blood pressure and heart rate, and provides a surge of feel good hormones.

Massage is recommended

Massage is recommended prior to your wedding to give you and your husband-to-be a special moment to relax, unwind, and connect with your bodies. Massage has been proven to help fight infection, boost immune systems, reduce blood pressure and heart rate, and provides a surge of feel good hormones.

It can be baffling to know which massage will suit you best. Here is a quick guide to differentiate the massages when you browse thru the spa menu.
Swedish: A traditional full body massage with firm, but gentle pressure. Swedish massage focuses on long flowing strokes and muscle kneading. Most spas offer this classic massage.

Hot Stone Massage

Hot Stone Massage: Hot stones are used to further relax and de-stress your muscles. The basalt stones are black volcanic rock that are smooth and absorb and retain heat. Your therapist holds the warmed stones in her hands as your muscles are heated and lengthened. Muscles release more quickly when stones are used in combination with Swedish techniques.

Aromatherapy Massage

Aromatherapy Massage: Essential oils are used to heighten the senses. Traditionally, a therapist will take you on a “smell journey” and present a spectrum of aromas that you like.Some oils are stimulating, while others are calming. You can decide where you want to go in your massage. Pick a citrus scent for a tropical escape or sandalwood for an earthy feel.

Deep Tissue or Sports Massage

Deep Tissue or Sports Massage: This massage style focuses on deeper pressure to targeted tissue for restorative benefits. Frequent areas of concentration are neck and shoulders, low back, and hamstrings. Stretches are often incorporated to further elongate the muscles. Hot towels and heated tables also encourage more blood and lymph flow in and out of the area to rehabilitate the muscles. Athletes prefer this massage as the goal is to reduce pain and enhance performance.

Couples Massage

Couples Massage: A great pre-wedding or post wedding massage for the bride and groom. Many spas have couples suites where two tables are set up side-by-side and each of you will have a massage therapist performing a massage of your choice. One of our favorites is a side-by-side Warm Stone massage with champagne after in the relaxation room.
Four Handed Massage: If you can get your hands on one of these, try it! Two massage therapists will massage you at the same time in a coordinated Swedish style massage. It is a decadent massage that you will be talking about for years.

Whatever massage you choose, here are a few practical tips to get the most out of your massage:

Be sure to give yourself enough time before and after your massage to relax and enjoy the entire experience.

Talk to your therapist. They will want to know the areas that are bothering you and your massage preferences. You can always talk to your therapist during a massage and request pressure changes.

Relax and clear your mind

Relax and clear your mind. The hour you are in the massage has been reserved for you and it is your time.

Leave cell phones in your locker or in your car.

Undress to your comfort level. You will be properly draped during your massage, so removing all your clothes for a massage is the preferred option.

If you have scheduled a Swedish style massage, but decide you want to change it to an Aromatherapy massage, ask. Most spas can accommodate a menu change.

If it is your first time having a massage ever, let your therapist know. You will receive more explanations and will be asked more often about your comfort level.

Drink water after your massage. A massage releases waste products into your system and drinking water will encourage them to leave your body.
Visit your spa on your wedding weekend to untie your knots!

Sara Daly

www.middleburyspa.com

Sara Daly is a Physical Therapist, Massage Therapist, and owner of Waterfalls Day Spa located at the historic Middlebury Inn in downtown Middlebury, Vermont

www.middleburyspa.com

Read for free online "Spa Corner: Relaxation Takes Practice" by Sara Daly
from the Summer 2010 issue of Vermont Bride Magazine

Read for free online "Spa Corner: Plan Your Pre-Wedding Massage" by Sara Daly
from the Summer 2011 issue of Vermont Bride Magazine

Read for free online "The Long and Short to Amazing Bridal Hair" by Sara Daly
from the Spring 2011 issue of Vermont Bride Magazine

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