Massage has many benefits for your body, mind, and emotional well-being. If you've never gotten a massage before, you may not know what to expect. Fortunately, getting your first massage doesn't need to be a stressful experience. In fact, it should be quite the opposite. Here is what you should expect when you visit a spa or massage parlor for your first massage:

1. You may need to fill out a form.

Some massage therapists give new customers a form to fill out. This is a lot like the form you fill out when you see a new physician. It will ask you questions about preexisting conditions you may have, medications you're taking, as well as any allergies you have. This information will allow your massage therapist to make sure your massage is safe and comfortable for you. You should arrive at your appointment fifteen minutes early so you have time to fill out any paperwork you may have.

2. You can undress to your level of comfort.

People have varying levels of comfort with nudity. Many people prefer to receive massages while fully unclothed because this allows the massage therapist easy access to all their muscles. Your massage therapist will keep your body draped with a clean sheet that only exposes the part of the body they're currently working on. However, if you prefer to keep your underwear on, that is also fine. Your massage therapist will leave the room to allow you privacy while you undress and get under the sheet.

3. You should express your preferences to your massage therapist.

Your massage therapist may ask you a few questions about any pain you may be experiencing. Let them know if you have any problem areas that they should avoid. For instance, if you've suffered a recent injury, you may want them to skip certain areas. However, you should also let them know if there are any areas you would like them to pay particular attention to. If you stand on your feet all day at work, you might want your massage therapist to spend the majority of your session working on your feet and legs.

4. You shouldn't experience discomfort.

Most massage therapists practice Swedish massage. This is a type of massage that uses long, sweeping strokes to provide relaxation and coax tension from your muscles. Unlike deep tissue massage, which may occasionally cause discomfort, Swedish massage should never hurt. Let your massage therapist know if they are pressing too hard, and they can lighten the pressure to accommodate you.