A great massage doesn't depend only on your therapist's skill — it also depends on how you prepare and how you look after yourself afterwards. Here are 10 small tips to make your next massage more effective, safer and more relaxing.
Before your massage
1. Book ahead
Booking ahead means no waiting, especially in the evening and at weekends. When you book, mention the treatment you'd like and any health issues, so the spa can prepare.
2. Eat lightly 1–2 hours before
A massage on a full stomach can feel uncomfortable, especially lying face-down. On the other hand, being very hungry can make you dizzy. A light meal 1–2 hours beforehand is ideal.
3. Arrive 10 minutes early
Arriving early gives you time to change, have some water and let your heart rate settle. Rushing in and lying straight down makes it much harder to relax.
4. Share your health history
Tell your therapist if you're pregnant, have heart disease, high or low blood pressure or diabetes, have had recent surgery, take blood thinners, are allergic to any oils, or have broken skin anywhere. This helps them adjust the pressure and technique to keep you safe.
During your massage
5. Be clear about pressure
There's no “right” pressure for everyone. If it's too strong or too light, say so straight away. A good massage may feel a little tender on tight spots, but it should never be sharp or make you tense up.
6. Breathe slowly and let go
Slow, deep belly breathing helps your muscles relax faster. Let your therapist lift your arms and legs without trying to “help” — that's when your muscles truly rest.
7. Put your phone away
An hour without notifications or messages is a gift to your nervous system. Switch to silent and enjoy it. If you're worried about missing something urgent, let family or colleagues know you'll be offline for about an hour.
After your massage
8. Drink warm water and rest
A glass of warm water or herbal tea helps you feel comfortable. If you can, rest for a few minutes before getting up, especially if you tend to feel light-headed.
9. Avoid hard exercise and cold air
Skip intense exercise straight after your massage. If you've just had cupping or gua sha, keep warm, avoid air conditioning blowing directly on you, and wait a few hours before taking a warm shower.
10. Listen to your body
Mild soreness for a day or two after a deep tissue massage is normal. But if the pain increases, or you notice swelling, numbness or large bruises, contact the spa and see a doctor if needed.
What should you wear?
Wear comfortable clothes that are easy to change out of, and take off jewellery such as necklaces and watches before you start. If you have long hair, tie it up so your therapist can work on your neck and shoulders easily. Most spas provide a change of clothes and clean towels, so you don't need to bring much.
First massage? Don't be shy to ask
If it's your first time, it's perfectly fine to ask about the treatment, how long it takes and the price before you begin. Mention any areas you'd like the therapist to focus on or avoid. And remember, you can ask to stop at any time if you feel uncomfortable — a good massage starts with feeling safe.
When should you postpone?
- You have a fever, the flu or another infectious illness.
- You've just had an injury or sprain, or an area is swollen, hot or red.
- You've been drinking alcohol.
- You feel exhausted or dizzy, or your blood pressure is unstable.
A quick checklist
- Before: book ahead, eat lightly, arrive 10 minutes early, mention any health conditions.
- During: speak up about pressure, breathe slowly, leave your phone on silent.
- After: drink warm water, rest a little, keep warm, skip hard exercise, and notice how your body feels over the next day or two.
Small habits like these make a real difference — to how much you enjoy the massage, and to how long the benefits last.
Book at Mộc An
Mộc An is open from 08:00 to 21:00 (until 21:30 on Sundays). Choose a 60-minute Body massage (329K), a 60-minute Herbal hair wash (199K), or the all-in-one 100-minute Combo 1 (369K). Call or message on Zalo to book ahead.
Book your massageCall or message on Zalo: 0983 333 820
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have a health concern, please talk to your doctor.