Massage Before Travel or Hit the Spa When You Arrive?
Relaxation and vacation go hand in hand, but sometimes the process of getting away creates its own world of stress. Our favorite way to combat the stress of heading out of town is to plan time for a massage. Whether it means a pre-travel appointment or a trip to the spa after arriving at your destination, massage can be an important part of letting your tensions fall away for your getaway.
Those of you who regularly schedule massages might wonder which option holds the most benefit. Should I get a massage here or there? The answer may be unsurprising; there is no single best time for a massage in your vacation schedule. However, there are some things to consider for either choice.
Schedule
Sometimes the answer is as simple as looking at your schedule. Between work, packing, and last-minute arrangements, there may be no way to get a massage before leaving. Or, perhaps your vacation destination will not have easy access to a good massage therapist. On the other hand, your destination may be known for massages or different spa experiences and that in and of itself may be an important event for your trip! In those cases, the answer is clear.
Budget
Since prices can vary, your budget may determine the best option for you. Whether you are looking to splurge on self-care during your vacation or saving your splurge for a night on the town, checking spa prices will help you decide where to book your massage.
Comfort level
If you have a regular massage therapist, something to consider is whether or not you want to go to them. There are positives to a therapist who knows your preferences and your trouble spots. You may have an easier time communicating with them about what you are looking for in a pre-travel massage. However, a new therapist might try different techniques that really work for you. Then, you can request your regular therapist incorporate them into future massages.
While there is no right or wrong answer to when to incorporate a massage into your travel plans, there are plenty of options and reasons to consider a massage as an essential part of every trip.