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want? The answers to that question will help you decide whether to seek a massage in a spa, and independent studio, or with a therapist attached to a medical professional.
Don't go to a day spa expecting the massage therapist to fix your carpal tunnel. Conversely, don't show up at the massage studio expecting a fluffy robe and a seaweed wrap. When I tell people I have a massage studio the next question they always ask is "Where is your spa?" People assume that if massage is available it must be a spa. This couldn't be more wrong. Spas tend to be more about relaxation. You can get a great massage at a spa. But you won't get the same focus and attention on therapeutic results that would be offered by an independent massage therapist.

Ask friends and family for recommendations.

When people find a great massage therapist they tend to rave about them. Asking for recommendations makes it easier to find someone good. Again, be a smart consumer. Your great Aunt Leona who's only had one massage in her life might not be the most qualified person to recommend a therapist.

Narrow the field.

When you know what you want you can further narrow your choices by asking yourself the following questions:
How far am I willing to travel?
How much am I willing to pay?
What style of touch or pressure do I prefer?
Am I more comfortable with a male or female?
What days and hours do I have time to get a massage?

These are basic but important criteria. It doesn't matter how good the therapist or your intentions, life tends to get in the way of things. If you have to travel too far or pay more than you can easily afford then you won't go regularly and that will keep you from getting results.
Maybe you want a therapist who does deep tissue and hot stone, is no more than 10 miles away, no more than $80 an hour, and is available Thursday morning. That's your choice. The idea is to fit massage into your life seamlessly.

Try them out.

Once you've booked a session remember your goals. Did you get the results you wanted? Did you click' with the therapist? Is this therapist knowledgeable without being pushy? Did the therapist pay attention to your requests and needs during the session? Were you happy with the overall experience? If you answer yes to all of these then congratulations, you just found a great massage therapist. If you answered no . . .

Take a leap of faith.
Don't allow a couple of bad massage experiences to put you off forever. Yes there are bad massages out there. Even great therapists can have an off day. But we're all different and like different touch. It will take time to find the massage therapist who is great at what they do, meshes with your personality, and has the right price and location. Don't give up trying.
Often I hear people say that they want to get a massage but haven't because they don't know if it will be good. How can you know without trying? If you want to make massage a part of your life then eventually you will have to make the investment and give some therapists a try. The reward is well worth the time and money.

Learn more about this author, Christina Dille.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

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