What state should the client be in during a massage for optimal results?

For optimal results during a massage, the client should be in a fully relaxed state. This is crucial because relaxation allows the muscles to loosen and helps in reducing tension throughout the body. When a person is relaxed, their sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body's stress response, quiets down, allowing the massage therapist to work more effectively on the soft tissues. In this state, blood circulation improves, and the client is more receptive to the benefits of the massage, which can include pain relief, improved mobility, and overall well-being.

Other states like being slightly tense, alert, or casually comfortable can hinder the effectiveness of the massage. Slight tension in the muscles may prevent deep relaxation and the release of muscle knots. Similarly, if a person is alert and focused, they may not fully experience the therapeutic benefits of the treatment due to mental distractions. Casual comfort does not necessarily equate to full relaxation, which is required to maximize the physiological and psychological benefits of a massage.