Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Relaxing music will be played to encourage a peaceful state. You may even request the music you hear during your session. The massage table is especially designed for maximum comfort.
What will I wear during my treatment?
Most treatments are received while unclothed but covered with, at minimum, a top sheet and usually blankets also. However, you should only undress to your own comfort level. You have the option of leaving all clothes on, wearing only undergarments or a swimsuit, or undressing completely. It is entirely up to you. You will be properly draped during the entire session. It is also suggested that you remove contact lenses, jewelry and pull long hair back.
Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
No. The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet and blanket.
Will I be covered during the session?
You will be properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed.
What parts of my body will be massaged?
A typical full-body treatment will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, gluteal area, stomach and shoulders. Your therapist will confirm with you before treatment begins if there are any areas you may not want to be massaged.
What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
A relaxing Swedish massage is often a baseline for clients. In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with broad, flowing strokes that will help calm your nervous system and relax exterior muscle tension. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax specific areas and relieve areas of muscular tension. Often, a light oil or lotion is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. The oil also helps hydrate your skin. You should communicate immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken. Massage and bodywork are most effective when your body and mind are completely at ease.
Are there different kinds of massage and bodywork?
There are numerous types of massage and bodywork. Various techniques utilize different strokes, including basic rubbing strokes, rocking movement, posture and movement re-education, application of pressure to specific points, and more. You may view more specific explanations of treatments under Services & Rates and discuss which methods may be most appropriate for you with your therapist.
What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?
Prior to the massage, please ask your therapist ANY questions about technique and everything you are uncertain or curious about. Positive results will increase the more you feel totally at ease and can thoroughly relax. During the massage, be sure to communicate to the therapist anything that will aid in making you more comfortable. Be sure to let them know if you need more or less pressure, if you are too cold or warm, or anything else relevant to the session. The therapist will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm). Many people just close their eyes and completely relax. If you have any questions regarding the session or about the particular technique you are receiving, feel free to ask at any time.
How will I feel after the massage or bodywork session?
Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days. Since toxins are released from your soft tissues during a massage, it is recommended you drink plenty of water following your massage.
What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?
Massage and bodywork can help release chronic muscular tension and pain, boost the immune system, improve circulation, increase joint flexibility, reduce mental and physical fatigue and stress, promote faster healing of injured muscular tissue, improve posture, and reduce blood pressure. Massage and bodywork is also known to promote better sleep, improve concentration, reduce anxiety, reduce frequency of headaches and create an overall sense of well-being.
Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable?
Yes. Before your treatment begins, you will be required to complete an intake form and your therapist will ask general health questions. It is imperative that you inform your therapist of any and all health problems or medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbs and vitamins. If you are under a doctor’s care, it is strongly advised that you receive a written recommendation for massage or bodywork prior to any session. Depending on the condition, approval from your doctor may be required before any treatment can be administered.