Massage Therapist Brioni Sangster Here are some pre and post massage suggestions: Pre-Massage Massage is uncomfortable on a full stomach. Try to avoid eating at least an hour prior to your appointment.

I use an organic, cold-pressed non-oil lubricant extracted from the Jojoba Seed which is non-oily, doesn't stain clothes, and is extremely nourshing for the skin. You'll hardly know it's there (except how soft your skin will feel) but should you want to wipe it off, towels will be available at your request.

Since your face will be massaged, women may want to omit wearing make-up, but you may if you wish as it doesn't affect the massage.

You will be asked to remove all jewelry. You may want to leave extra pieces at home.

During a massage your hair styling is often not maintained. If you wish that your hair be treated extra carefully, please request that before the massage. I will make by best effort to minimize any effect on your hair styling. Here are some pre and post massage suggestions:

Post-Massage Water! Water! Water! It is imperative that you drink 8, 8 oz. glasses of filtered or bottled room-temperature water after your treatment. This assists the body in flushing out toxin and impurities that were released by the massage and helps prevent any soreness the next day. If your treatment is in the late afternoon or evening drink at least 3 glasses and then drink another 8 during the following day.

Optimum conditions are that you continue the relaxation-response by taking it easy the rest of the day after a treatment. Rest, relax, and continue to nurture yourself, possibly with a hot, soaking bath in the evening, a cup of hot herbal tea. Some are energized and a walk feels good. Others get in touch with deep tiredness and feel like napping. You might get in touch with your body and find surprising aches and pains you didn't know were there. Some find they feel more in tune with their feelings. You might feel refreshed, more open...this is often a good time for journal writing, meditating, prayer, or a heart-to-heart talk with someone you care for. What ever your response, know it is part of the healing process and that it is okay.

NOTE: If you have commitments after your treatment, at least do a little self-nurturing in the evening. Some find it helpful to write down how they feel to give themselves a point of comparison for when stress levels are high.

Physical responses post-massage are varied. You could experience any of the following: feel of being energized, body "tightness", thirst, extra bowel movements, extra urination, sweating, greater awareness of your body in general. They are all good.

It is best to eat "clean" after a treatment. Eat lightly - fresh or steamed vegetables, fruit, grains, and lean meats. Remember, your body is already working to dump toxin that was stored in your tissue. Why burden it with a heavy meal or junk food.

Please Note: If you have any inflammation or pain, even if it's gone after your treatment, I highly recommend that you AVOID any foods that are "pro-inflammatory" or that increase inflammation (pain). They are the following:

Sweets (including alchol and sodas, diet or regular)
Coffee and "Lipton" style tea (herbal teas are okay)
Dairy Products
Processed, refined foods (avoid white flour products, white rice, pasta, etc.)
Hydrogenated Oils or partially hydrogenated oils (check labels)