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First Time Getting a Massage? Here’s What to Expect at Spirit Fingers Massage 💆‍♀️

  • Writer: Nikki Rushton
    Nikki Rushton
  • May 31, 2025
  • 4 min read

Updated: Apr 28

If you’re wondering what to expect at your first massage, you’re not alone. Booking a massage for the first time can feel a little vulnerable, especially when you’re already tired, stressed, in pain, or simply running on empty.


So first, let me say this: welcome.


I wrote this to walk you through what your experience may feel like when you come see me, so you can arrive feeling a little more prepared and a lot more at ease. My goal is simple: to help you feel safe, cared for, and more at home in your body.


Before you Arrive.

You do not need to do anything fancy before your appointment. Just come as you are.


A few simple things can help your session feel even better:

  • Drink water: Being hydrated can help your muscles respond more comfortably to the work and support you afterward.

  • Eat something nourishing: Nothing too heavy or greasy. A balanced meal or snack with some protein is a great choice before bodywork.

  • Wear cozy clothes: After a massage, your body may feel relaxed and a little dreamy. Soft, comfortable clothes make it easier to stay in that rest mode.

  • Arrive 5–10 minutes early if you can: That gives us a little space to settle in without feeling rushed.

  • After you book with me, I’ll send over a welcome email with everything you need for your first visit. You’ll be able to set up your Jane profile, fill out your intake form, and get settled in before you even walk through the door.


When you get here

When you arrive, we will sit down together for a few minutes and talk about what is going on in your body.

Nothing overly clinical or intimidating, just a real conversation.


I may ask things like:

  • Where are you feeling the most tension?

  • Have you been dealing with pain, stress, headaches, or soreness?

  • Are there any areas you want me to avoid or focus on?

  • What are you hoping to get out of your session today?


This helps me customize the massage to your body and what you need in that moment.

Then I will step out of the room so you can undress to your comfort level and get on the table under the sheets. If you feel comfortable removing underwear and jewelry, that can help me work more fully around areas like the hips, glutes, and lower back, where a lot of tension tends to hide. But there is never pressure. Your comfort always comes first.

You will always be properly draped, and I only uncover the area I am actively working on.


what it feels like on the table
If you have never had a massage before, this part can feel like the biggest unknown.

So here is the honest version. You will be lying under warm sheets, usually with music playing in the background. I tend to start in a way that gives your body a chance to settle and let your nervous system start to exhale.



As the session unfolds, I may use different tools depending on what your body needs that day.


These may include:

  • Cupping to help release deep muscle tension

  • Gua Sha to support fascia and encourage movement

  • Red light therapy to support tissue recovery and

    calm inflammation

  • Hot stones to help muscles soften and the body

    relax more deeply


Everything I use is included in your session. There is never an extra charge for tools. We decide together what makes the most sense for your body that day.

this is your time

You do not have to make conversation unless you want to. You can talk, stay quiet, breathe deeply, even drift off to sleep. Sometimes people get emotional during massage, too, and that is okay. Your body holds a lot, and this work can create space for release in more ways than one.


after your massage

After your session, you might feel deeply relaxed, a little dreamy, or even a little tender. All of that can be completely normal.

Massage is not just about muscles. It can also help calm the nervous system, which is why many people leave feeling softer, quieter, and more grounded.

A few ways to take care of yourself afterward:


Hydrate: Drinking water can help you feel better after your session and support overall recovery.

Eat something grounding: A good meal or snack with protein can help support your muscles and energy.

Take it easy if you can: A warm bath, a slow walk, gentle stretching, or simply a quiet evening can help your body absorb the work.


You might feel a little sore the next day, kind of like after a good stretch or workout. That’s just your body adjusting to new space and flow. Trust it. 🌼


how often should you come

That’s totally up to your body and your life.


That depends on your body, your stress level, and your goals.


If you are dealing with chronic pain, high stress, or ongoing tension, weekly or biweekly sessions can be really supportive.


If you are looking for maintenance, balance, and prevention, monthly massage is often a great rhythm.


And sometimes, you just know when your body is asking for help. That matters too.


There is no one-size-fits-all answer here. If you are not sure how often to get a massage, I am always happy to help you figure out a schedule that feels realistic and supportive for your life.


a few things to know before you book

  • Sessions are by appointment only

  • I currently see clients on Tuesdays and Thursdays

  • You can book online, through here, social media, or by messaging me directly

  • A card on file is required to reserve your appointment

  • I ask for at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule

  • HSA/FSA cards are often accepted, and I am happy to provide a receipt if needed

massage isn't a luxury -- it's care

📍 Spirit Fingers Massage – Draper, UT

🗓️ Tues 10–6 PM | Thurs 10–6 PM


 
 
 

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