During the Massage: Tell the practitioner about your problem areas. This way the therapist can focus on where you need it most. Often breathing deeply can help you get the most out of a massage. Breathe into every cell of your body. 

After the Massage: Drink lots of water. This helps the body flush out residue that is released from the muscles into the circulatory system during the massage. Plan to take some time time after the massage for light activity. Take a short walk or sit quietly.  This allows the massage to settle into the body. A warm post-massage bath can also be very refreshing.