In the midst of a relaxing massage, there's nothing more distracting than when a comfort zone is breached. It might be the dog barking outside, or the smell of a candle burning, or it might simply be your therapist's touch is a little too deep for your liking today. No matter what might be pulling you away from the massage experience, it's worthy of mention.

We each have our own personal level of comfort, our own tolerance for distraction and our individual needs for chatter or silence. Most massage therapists are well-trained in creating an appropriate environment for treatment, one that promotes a sense of peace, security and serenity. But there's always room for individual tastes and preferences, and it's important to let your therapist know exactly what your personal preferences are. The more effectively you communicate with your therapist, the better the massage will be.

First of all, why are you getting a massage? Do you have a specific area of your body that needs work, are you addressing symptoms of disease, or are you just looking for a feeling of total abandonment? It's important to share this information with your therapist in order to address the intent of the session.

Therapists commonly use a variety of office accessories and tools to enhance the massage experience. Aromatherapy is not for everyone, nor is harp music. If the smells or sounds irritate rather than soothe you, say so. The temperature of the room should be at your comfort level. Ask the therapist to adjust the thermostat if necessary, and request a blanket if the sheets used aren't sufficient to keep you warm. Most therapists will provide a glass of water near the massage table, so sip when you get thirsty. If you need a bathroom break, even in the middle of the massage, speak up. You can say "yes" or "no" to deep work, as well as to a slower or faster pace. And you can request the therapist focus on specific areas. It's totally up to you. While massage is best administered to an unclothed body, if nudity makes you uncomfortable, for whatever reason, it's perfectly acceptable to state your preference. It's also okay to request not to be touched in certain areas. Your comfort zone is important to the success of the massage, and if youÕre experiencing stress related to nudity or the areas being massaged, you won't be getting the full benefit of relaxation.

Sometimes emotional issues can surface during a session. As your body relaxes and releases, old memories or current problems may arise. It's not uncommon. If you find yourself feeling tearful or anxious, don't hesitate to ask for what you need - a tissue, a moment to sit up and take a break, or even to end the session.

For a truly beneficial massage, it's best to remain quiet while the therapist is working, allowing you the ability to focus within. But verbally communicating your preferences is also an important aspect of the process. You'll be able to minimize distractions, relax your mind and focus on what your body is experiencing. After all, it's your money, your time and your body.