What to expect with a CBD massage

While we’ve talked about the science and benefits behind CBD massages, you might be wondering what the experience is actually like when compared to a typical massage. We invited one of our guests, Ella, to write a blog about her first CBD massage! 

I’m not typically a person who tries new things. I’m notoriously guilty of wanting to stay in my comfort zone—my ideal self care is in my apartment, involves wine, copious amounts of chips and salsa and of course, Netflix. When I was invited to get a massage with CBD oil at Massage Studio’s St. Petersburg location, I was hesitant at first. I had a million questions swirling in my brain about the massage, the CBD, and the whole experience. When I went in, my massage therapist, Katie, was more than happy to answer all of my questions, and made the experience as relaxing as possible. 

I figured that other people going into their first CBD massage might have similar questions or apprehensions so why not write about my experience? 

HOW DO I GET READY FOR A CBD MASSAGE? 

I went for my massage after a busy day at work, and stopped into the studio on my way home. There’s nothing special you have to do to prepare, but I’d recommend not scheduling anything stressful or important after your massage. Spoiler alert: you’re going to be too blissed out to be productive.

HOW DOES A CBD MASSAGE FEEL? 

Personally, I had no idea what to expect going in, and couldn’t have been happier with the result. I felt the calmest and most relaxed I've been in a very long time. I’m the type of person whose mind tends to wander and think about my to-do lists constantly, and that became virtually impossible. 

My massage therapist encouraged me to take deep, even breaths and get into the relaxation zone, which was basically second nature once the oil started getting rubbed in. My mind was just present. I wasn't worried about work stuff, grocery lists, or errands that needed to be done. I was just in the moment, feeling zen. I think the CBD oil helped the mental tension and physical tension all melt away.

I was also worried about feeling “high” or zoned out—CBD comes from cannabis, right? I still had to drive home after this! Katie reassured me that it’s impossible to get “high” from CBD oil, as it doesn’t contain any psychoactive ingredients. At the end of the massage, I did feel a bit floaty and super relaxed, but not intoxicated or impaired in any way. Just zen, like yoda meditating in the jedi temple lifting muntuur stones level zen. 

DOES CBD OIL SMELL BAD OR FEEL GREASY?

Because CBD oil is a cannabis-derived compound, you might wonder if it has a cannabis-like aroma. And with “natural” skin products, I tend to be concerned that the butters and oils will sit on my skin rather than getting absorbed. Frankly, I was a little worried about leaving smelling like a college dorm room and feeling like a greasy rotisserie chicken. That wasn’t the case at all. 

The oil doesn't have a smell to it at all, during the massage all I could smell was eucalyptus, which was the aromatherapy scent I chose on my intake form (Massage Studio lets you pick your own music and aromatherapy for no additional cost!). The CBD oil feels great on the skin—it's not too heavy, greasy or slick, and absorbs into the skin really well. I felt light and chill, and my skin felt moisturized. 

WHAT AFTER CARE SHOULD I DO FOLLOWING A CBD OIL MASSAGE?

My massage therapist suggested that I leave the CBD massage oil on for at least a couple of hours after my massage to really get the full experience, so I did. My massage appointment was at 4:15, so I went about my evening as I usually would and continued to feel relaxed. I showered it off before going to bed, and slept super well.  

Otherwise, she said that after care is identical to any other massage. Drink plenty of water in the 24 hours after a massage to continue flushing out toxins, and avoid caffeine and sugary beverages such as soda. She also said to try not to exercise for at least 12 hours after a massage to allow your muscles to fully relax—which was not a problem with how relaxed and easygoing I was feeling. 

TRYING CBD OIL MASSAGE

What I liked about Massage Studio’s offering for CBD massage when compared to other spas, is that it’s as simple as possible. I was still able to choose the type of massage that best suited my needs and goals. I was able to work with Katie to talk about my questions and areas that typically cause me aches and pains, and she made sure to focus on those areas while making the most of CBD massage. She even accommodated the fact that I’m ticklish! 

If you’re wondering if a CBD massage is right for you, I’d say give it a shot. It only costs $20 to add on to any massage, and if it’s your first time visiting Massage Studio, you’ll get a special discounted rate for your first visit—so the CBD add-on essentially pays for itself. 

If you’d like to experience the CBD massage benefits for yourself, simply book your appointment online and let them know you’re interested in adding on CBD oil. The CBD massage oil is available for an additional $20. We look forward to seeing you!