The Massage

How to complete The Massage

A professional deep-tissue session targets the tight bands and trigger points that foam rolling at home rarely reaches. Worth doing when chronic desk posture or training has left your back stiff and sore for weeks.

1. Search for a licensed massage therapist (LMT/RMT) who lists deep-tissue or myofascial work, not just relaxation spa menus
2. Book a 60- or 90-minute slot; 30 minutes is too short for real back work
3. Before it starts, point to the exact spots that hurt and say you want firm pressure
4. During the session, breathe out as they press into a knot and tell them to ease off if it goes past 7/10 pain
5. Drink water and walk a little afterward; expect mild soreness for a day

Tips

• Skip a heavy meal in the two hours before
• Deep tissue should feel intense but not make you clench or hold your breath: that means too hard
• Tip 15-20% if you're in the US and want to rebook the same therapist

What counts as done

You attended the appointment and the targeted knots feel looser or sorer the next day, not the same.