If you are having your first massage with any therapist, expect to spend the start of the session discussing your health history. They should have a checklist to go through and some therapists will try and get you this checklist form in advance so you can complete it before you turn up.

 

The health history is more important than just finding out why you might want massage, because it highlights any contra-indications. These are health issues that can be made worse with certain types of massage, and other conditions that might even mean no massage should be undertaken at all...

 

Even if you have already had a massage from someone, its hard to know whether you have found the right therapist for you. Here are 5 things to consider:

 

1. Qualifications. It is important to have a qualified therapist who knows how to massage you the right way and avoid causing harm. This applies to relaxation massage just as much as remedial massage. There are quite a few diplomas and certifications out there and you are not expected to know what they cover. Use the Massage NZ site (www.massagenewzealand.org) and click on ’Find Therapist’ to see the registered therapists near you...