We Asked: What is a good way to prepare—mentally or physically—for a session?

Here is what you told us...

My normal practice includes a healthy breakfast and 10 to 15 minutes of stretching before my first client of the day. This helps me clear my own mind of unwanted clamor. I review my soap notes from the previous sessions for all clients due in that day. I also remind myself to be mindful of my own body mechanics, so I can continue in good health to perform the best possible massage without injury to myself. 
Marianne C. Bashista, L.M.T.
Amherst, New Hampshire

As a massage therapist, I get massage work on a regular basis for obvious reasons, but I also do so in order to help me remember just how good a massage feels, how much I look forward to getting one and how good I feel when I leave. This allows me to better empathize with the client and treat each massage with a renewed spirit.
Juli Fielitz
Charlotte, North Carolina

I have a large bottle of filtered water to drink before and after, and [I] start each session with a silent wish to be the best servant to my clients’ needs. I try to do a well-rounded yoga session each day to keep strong and light in body and mind, and avoid self-injury.
Barbara Davies, C.M.T.
Limassol, Cyprus

I eat a high-protein, well-balanced meal before going in to work. I give myself plenty of time to get to my appointment, so I don’t arrive rushed or flustered. I also have a series of stretches I do every day to limber up. I make note at the end of each day [about] who my sessions are with the following day. That way, if my first appointment is a new patient, I am already familiar with her case. I am also a very spiritual person, so I pray every day for God to grant me the compassion and wisdom to deal with each individual client and meet her specific needs.
Serena Fields
Highland, California

I always try to leave 30 to 45 minutes between clients. This allows me plenty of time to restage my room and clear my mind of everything—from the previous client or from what was going on at home. I focus my thoughts on my next client, our last session and positive thoughts about this session. I usually sit quietly until my client arrives.
Malissa Tracy
Huber Heights, Ohio

I do some deep breathing and about 10 minutes of upper-body and lower-back stretching. I also try to imagine my favorite beach scene, with the waves crashing in, and relaxing on the beach.
Garth Stephens
La Quinta, California

Before I begin a session, I use an essential-oil blend that is a combination of 10 essential oils, some of which were used in ancient times to increase the aura around the body. I comb it through my aura, as its frequency neutralizes negative energy; it is calming, soothing and brings a feeling of protection and security. This way, I do not pick up any energy from my clients and I am assured my energy is balanced.
Maria Turchi
Tenafly, New Jersey

I like to ground myself by taking a few deep breaths and doing stretches for my hands, legs and shoulders. This helps me get into my own body and focus, relax and make sure there is no tension when I start the session. I make sure I am hydrated and have eaten a healthy meal or snack before I begin massage. This allows my energy to be fluid through each session. When my energy is strong, I can be fully attentive and intuitive to clients’ needs.
Jamie Gruel
Las Vegas, Nevada

I use the same visualization techniques athletes use to prepare for their performance. I review my client notes and mentally picture myself giving the massage. I can imagine what I expect or don’t expect to find, and select the techniques I will use in that circumstance. The actual massage may include surprises, but I’m better prepared to handle them if I have “already done the massage” in my mind.
Chuck Ericson, L.M.T.
Dayton, Ohio