Massage FAQ's

 What do I wear to the massage?  Whatever you choose to wear most likely won’t matter. Preferably something easy to get on and off, but that is for your convenience. During the massage you will be draped the entire time. There is a sheet and a blanket that you lie under throughout the time you are on the table. If I need to do any type of abdominal massage, a large hand towel will be placed over the breast area.

What do I take off for the massage?  I want you to undress to your comfort level, which means just that. Whatever you feel comfortable taking off is ok with me. Most clients undress to just their underwear, while some prefer to be completely undressed. If being completely undressed makes you uncomfortable then you won’t get the best results from the massage. If you do happen to leave clothes on I will work through them to the best of my ability. Also don’t worry about being too cold as I do have a heated table!

What should I expect for my first massage therapy visit?  For your first massage visit the first 5-10 minutes are used to fill out a health intake form. This way I am able to determine what type of massage will be best for you and to make sure you don’t have any contraindications (if massage can’t be performed due to medical reasons) for the massage. After the intake is filled out I will go over it with you and will come up with your specific massage plan. The I will leave the room where you can undress to your comfort level. Everything in the room is adjustable from the music, table heat, to the pressure of your massage. At any point you feel uncomfortable, let me know and I will do my best to accommodate you. Once the massage is complete I will quietly let you know the session is over and leave the room so you are able to get dressed. After you are dressed, just open the door and I will go over the session with you to see when would be best for you to come back.

What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?  Prior to the massage, feel free to ask the me any questions about the technique or the upcoming session. During the massage, make yourself comfortable. I 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, communicating if/when they need more or less pressure, another blanket, or anything else relevant to the session. If you have any questions regarding the session or about the particular technique you are receiving, feel free to ask.

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.

Can I talk during the massage?  Yes! I have a surprising amount of clients that have asked if it is ok for them to talk or ask questions throughout the massage. While it is important to focus on the massage and relax, some people feel more comfortable talking during the massage. Comfort is my number one goal and if you feel more comfortable talking during the massage that is fine by me!

How often should I come in for a massage?  This will most likely vary person to person. It depends on how your body responds to massage and what works best for you! I have a range of once a year to once or twice a week. People with complicated or chronic conditions would benefit more from frequent and consistent massage than someone in good health with no tension that is just looking for just a relaxation massage. I will look over your health intake and during your first visit will go over your goals and help determine how often you should come in. What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?

What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?  Massage and bodywork can help release chronic muscular tension and pain, 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 and create an overall sense of well-being.

Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable?  Yes. That’s why it’s imperative that, before you begin your session, I have you fill out the Intake sheet which ask general health questions. It is very important that you inform me of any health problems or medications you are taking. 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.