Everything you need to know for your first massage--FAQ Guide
- A Touch of Serenity
- 6 days ago
- 5 min read
Booking your first massage can feel exciting, but it often comes with lots of questions. At A Touch of Serenity in Alexandria, VA, we want every client—especially first-timers—to feel completely comfortable, informed, and relaxed before they even step through our door. Here are the most common FAQs people ask before their very first massage, along with clear, reassuring answers.
What should I expect during my first massage appointment?
After reviewing your massage intake form, your massage therapist will begin with a short consultation to discuss your goals, pressure preferences, any areas of discomfort, and your overall wellness needs. After your intake conversation, your therapist will step out of the room so you can undress to your comfort level and lie under a soft sheet or blanket on the massage table. Your therapist will indicate if you should start laying face up or face down. During the session, your therapist will only uncover the single area being worked on at any time to maintain conservative & professional draping. Please make it a point to let your therapist know if anything on the massage table needs to be adjusted or if any of their massage techniques need to be modified to your comfort level. It is especially important to let your therapist know if at any point during the session you need more or less pressure.
Do I have to completely undress?
Not at all. You are welcome to leave on as much clothing as makes you comfortable. Most clients undress to their underwear, but some choose to keep more layers. Your comfort is the priority, and your therapist can work around whatever you prefer.
What if I'm ticklish or worried about feeling uncomfortable?
Massage shouldn’t feel ticklish. Your therapist will use firm, intentional pressure—never light, fluttery strokes that might cause a ticklish sensation. If anything feels uncomfortable at any point, simply let your therapist know so they can adjust. It will never hurt your therapists feelings to ask for an adjustment. Their main concern and priority is your comfort during your session.
Can I talk during my massage?
It’s entirely up to you. Some clients prefer quiet relaxation, while others enjoy small conversation. Your therapist will follow your lead. If you’d prefer minimal talking, that’s perfectly fine.
Will the massage be painful?
A therapeutic massage can include deeper pressure, but it should never be outright painful. You should feel a "hurt so good" feeling when your therapist is addressing the areas of tension and knots or trigger points. Remember, mild discomfort in tense areas is normal, but excrutiating pain is not. Communication is key—let your therapist know if you want lighter or deeper pressure at any time.
How long does a typical first time massage last?
Most first-timers will book a 60-minute massage to start with. A 60 minute session gives your therapist enough time to address the full body without rushing. Once you become more comfortable with receiveing massages, you may benefit from a 90-minute massage--especially if you have specific areas of chronic tension—like shoulders or low back—this will allow your therapist enough time to address the full body while spending more focused time on your trouble areas.
What should I do before my appointment?
Complete and submit any required massage intake forms so your therapist can review and prepare for your session.
Drink water throughout the day to ensure you and your muscles are thoroughly hydrated
Avoid heavy meals 1–2 hours before as you may feel uncomfortable laying face down on the massage table with a full stomach
Arrive 5–10 minutes early so you aren't feeling rushed before your session
Share relevant health information with your therapist
These simple steps help ensure you get the most out of your session
Can I get a massage if I'm pregnant?
Yes! You can! As long as you are in your second or third trimester and your doctor has not stated otherwise, massage during pregnancy is perfectly safe and often times much needed!
Can I get a massage if I'm sore or stressed?
Absolutely. Massage is wonderful for both physical tension and emotional stress. Your therapist will tailor the session based on how your body feels that day.
Which massage is the best massage for beginners?
We typically recommend a Swedish Massage or Relaxation Massage for first-timers. It helps you get comfortable with the experience while still easing tension, improving circulation, and calming the nervous system. Starting with a Swedish massage will allow you to gauge your overrall comfort level with pressure.
Will I be oily after the massage?
No—your therapist uses a controlled amount of high-quality professional standard massage oil or massage cream that absorbs well into the skin. You may feel moisturized, but not greasy. If you do happen to feel any access product, you can request a towel after your session to remove the product completely.
What if I fall asleep during my massage?
It happens all the time! Falling asleep during a massage is completely normal and simply means your body and mind are deeply relaxed. This is a good thing! Your therapist will continue the service even if you are asleep.
How will I feel afterward?
Most clients feel relaxed, calm, and less tense. Some experience mild soreness (similar to a light workout), especially after deep tissue work. Drinking water and taking it a bit easy after your massage helps your body recover comfortably.
Is it normal to feel emotional during or after a massage?
Yes—massage can release stored tension from both the body and the mind. Some clients feel unexpectedly calm, energized, emotional, or even sleepy. All of these responses are completely normal.
How often should I get massages?
For general wellness and stress relief, once a month is ideal. For chronic tension, pain, or injury recovery, your therapist may recommend biweekly or weekly sessions until the issue improves.
How to prepare for a massage at A Touch of Serenity?
Just show up as you are. We provide everything you need:
Cozy, private treatment rooms
Fresh linens
High-quality oils and lotions
Skilled, compassionate therapists
After your appointment is initially scheduled. You will receive an email with your booking confirmation details (i.e. parking information, our address, etc) but most importantly, there will be a link to submit your massage intake form in the required forms section of that email. Make sure that form is submitted prior to your appointment in ample time so that your therapist can review and prepare for your session. Other than submitting your massage intake form, all you have to do is breathe, relax, and let us take care of you.
First massage faq
If you're feeling confident and ready to schedule your appointment, give us a call during business hours at 571-419-8543 or schedule online. If you still have some unanswered questions, visit the FAQ section of our website.
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