A week filled with meetings and deadlines can leave you feeling drained. Luckily, a little at-home massage can do wonders. Whether you’re treating yourself to a professional massage or asking your partner for a relaxing rubdown, creating the perfect atmosphere in your home is essential. Discover the vital elements for transforming your space into a serene sanctuary.

1. Organize Your Space

The first thing to do is clean your massage area. Assess where to place the bed or mat and clear the surrounding space. Remove or rearrange unnecessary furniture or objects that may cause distraction and put out items that help create a relaxing environment, such as a favorite painting. Keep an eye on potential obstacles and hazards the massage therapist or your partner may trip on. 

Prepare at least one table for massage items and a chair for the massage therapist that they can sit on during your consultation.

2. Set the Right Temperature

Some prefer a warmer temperature to relax their muscles, while others want it colder to aid their sleep. Whatever your preference, remember that you’re likely to feel colder than usual because you’ll be wearing minimal clothing. Aim for a room temperature of between 70 and 73 degrees Fahrenheit. You can prepare a heat pack on the side just in case it gets colder.

3. Create a Relaxing Ambiance

Create a relaxing atmosphere with these tips:

• Turn on the air purifier: Bringing an air purifier into your room before your session ensures the room is free from allergens that may cause discomfort. They may be invisible, but harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are two to a thousand times higher than outdoors. Invest in a good air purifier to help prevent getting sick.
• Use aromatherapy: Light a scented candle, spray a luxurious scent or diffuse an essential oil for a soothing effect. Chamomile essential oil has calming effects and is proven to relieve headaches and anxiety. Make sure to unplug your air purifier before using aromatherapy.
• Play appropriate music: Focus on slow, relaxing music. Avoid songs with lyrics or pitchy instruments. Be mindful of the volume level — make sure it’s not too loud.
• Turn off harsh lights: Soft, ambient lighting creates a more calming atmosphere. Use lamps, dimmer switches, decorative lanterns or candles for a more intimate setting.
• Take a bath: Having clean skin is a must before a massage. It helps you feel rejuvenated and eliminates dirt. Use your luxurious bath soap in the tub or shower for a refreshing cleanse.
  

4. Ensure Privacy and Comfort

A private area is essential for a successful massage. No sense of privacy can make you feel uncomfortable throughout the session. Here’s how you can avoid it:

• Use block-out curtains: These opaque curtains are essential for a massage session in the morning or afternoon. You can also use privacy screens to ensure safety from prying eyes.
• Lock the doors: You don’t want your child or pet barging into the room during your session. If you prefer not to lock it, hang a sign communicating your unavailability.

5. Prepare Your Supplies

Place towels, oils and lotions at a nearby table. These tools can help reduce friction between your skin and the therapist’s hands. If you have sore muscles, consider using a massage tool to relieve deep soreness and release tension on your back, legs or shoulders.

For facial massages, consider using a jade roller or a gua sha tool to help relieve tight muscles, swelling, sinus pressure and fatigue. Lastly, use fresh towels and linens — cover your body in soft towels and lay in comfortable covers. Make sure they smell nice and fresh.

6. Set Aside Refreshments

Prepare hydrating beverages to drink after the session. Good options include herbal tea or infused water. These drinks help replenish your body’s hydration, resulting in a more rejuvenated feeling. You may also set aside light, healthy snacks like fruits and nuts.

7. Stay Present

After preparing everything, take a moment to relax. Enjoy a drink or read a light book to calm your mind before your massage session. To remain relaxed for longer periods, avoid using your phone before and after the massage.

3 Tips for Post-Massage Care

Do these soothing activities to maximize the benefits of your massage.

1. Take a Hot Bath

Consider soaking in a hot tub if your muscles feel sore after your massage. A warm bath can help increase blood flow, allowing more oxygen and nutrients to reach sore areas. 

2. Avoid Heavy Physical Activities

Give your mind and body time to rest and recuperate from massage. Going to the gym or participating in a sport may increase muscle soreness. If you want to stay active, try doing light exercises like gentle stretching and walking.

3. Don’t Consume Alcohol

A massage detoxifies your skin, so it’s best to keep your body as clean as possible after your session. Drinking alcohol may cause dehydration, which may impede your muscle recovery. Instead of alcoholic drinks, hydrate yourself with water or fresh juice.

Create a Relaxing Atmosphere Today

The perfect at-home massage isn’t just about the physical sensation — it’s about creating a holistic experience that relaxes the mind. Follow these tips and explore MyoBuddy’s self-massage tools to turn every massage session into a restful retreat.