After a few minutes, the therapist will knock on the door to see if you're ready. Many massage therapists use some type of oil or lotion to reduce the friction between your skin and their hands. They may also play soft music and turn down the lights or burn candles to help you relax. During the massage itself, don't be afraid to speak up if your therapist is using too much or too little pressure. At the end of the session, the therapist will leave the room so you can get dressed.
Researchers believe that massage works in at least three ways.
The combination, studies show, results in a feeling of relaxed alertness. Massage may ease chronic pain as well, perhaps, researchers speculate, by triggering the release of enkephalins, the body's natural painkillers. Massage isn't just for adults, either. A groundbreaking study showed that when trained parents gave their hospitalized, premature babies a firm, 15-minute massage three times a day, the babies gained weight more quickly and went home earlier than unrubbed preemies. Massage is generally quite safe, but be sure you let your therapist know if there are any areas of your body that are especially tense or tender.