Massages are just one of the many ways we care for ourselves, and these days self-care is more important than ever. But for some of us, especially those of us who don’t have regular massage treatments as part of our self-care routine, the vulnerability of undressing for a massage and letting another person see and touch you can feel daunting. And let’s be honest, even the most confident among us still have things we’d like to change about our physical appearance. It’s natural to feel a little self-conscious in a spa setting. But don’t let that stop you from enjoying this experience. Here are our tips for feeling confident during your massage at Lucille’s Day Spa:
- The good news is when you schedule a massage treatment, you’ve already taken an important step towards self-care and body positivity. Choosing to take the time to give your body what it needs is a way of honoring your own value and recognizing the important role your body plays in your overall wellbeing. So start by giving yourself credit for doing the hard work of caring for yourself!
- Recognize that the massage therapist is not there to judge you or your body. Massage therapists go into their profession because they genuinely care about providing you with a healing experience. Their main focus is on how you feel and what they can do to improve your quality of life. If you have any specific concerns, talk to your therapist about them. They will be more than happy to make adjustments so that you feel the most at ease on the massage table.
- Don’t compare. This universal advice is never more true than when it comes to our bodies. Your body is yours. Focus on what your body does for you and how it allows you to move through the world. Your body is way more than what it looks like on the outside. It takes you on fun adventures (hopefully to Lucille’s!); it allows you to care for your loved ones; and it’s with you every day of your life. So celebrate it!
- Take control. You are the one in charge of your body and you decide what it needs and how the massage session goes. Don’t hesitate to speak up if anything is making you uncomfortable or if you’d like something changed to make it suit you better. Our massage therapists want to listen to you and put you at ease.
- Be comfortable. Wear clothing that is comfortable and makes you feel confident in your body. Take time to relax your body and mind so you can easily slip into that headspace at the beginning of the massage.
- Redirect your thoughts when you notice yourself thinking negatively about your body. Don’t shame yourself for having the thought. Just notice it and then send it away.
- When all else fails fake it till you make it! Taking a moment to just imagine what it might feel like to accept your body as it is can be the first step to actually accepting your body just as it is. The more you repeat these thoughts the easier it will be for your brain to just naturally go there on its own.
At Lucille’s Day Spa, we work hard to make sure the environment is calm, welcoming, and relaxing. Ask for what you need, and our therapists will do whatever they can to make it happen! And remember, you don’t have to be a guest to use the spa services at Lucille’s (although we obviously think a stay at our inn makes for the most relaxing experience!). Book your stay with us today and begin your journey to self-confidence and healing!