Frequently Asked Questions

Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
Must I be completely undressed?
Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
Will I be covered during the session?
What parts of my body will be massaged?
What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
Are there different kinds of massage and bodywork?
What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?
How will I feel after the massage or bodywork session?
What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?
Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable?

Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music may be played to help you relax. You will lie on a table especially designed for your comfort.

Must I be completely undressed?
Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, it is entirely up to you what you want to wear. You should undress to your level of comfort. You will be properly draped during the entire session.It is best to remove all jewelry.

Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet.

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 session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders.

What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
A therapeutic massage should feel like you are having work done.  It is not meant to be a feathery light, relaxation massage, unless that is what you specifically request.  Massage should never feel painful, like you have to 'get through it', or cause you to tense up and hold your breath.  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 is not resisting.

Are there different kinds of massage and bodywork?
There are numerous types of massage and bodywork.  Various techniques utilize different strokes, including basic flowing strokes, rocking movement, posture and movement re-education, application of pressure to specific points, and more. We can discuss which methods may be most appropriate for you.

What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?
Always feel free to communicate your needs.  If you are too hot, too cold, feeling too much pressure, not enough pressure, or decide you would rather not receive work on a particular area of your body, please speak up.  Prior to the massage, feel free to ask any questions about the techniques or the upcoming session. During the massage, make yourself comfortable and try to relax into the table. There is no need to help lift your head, arms, or legs.  The practitioner will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm).  Each session is customized to your needs - some people talk throughout the session and other fall asleep immediately.  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?
This varies person to person.  Most people feel very relaxed immediately. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity immediately following the session. Others experience better sleep that night, or decreased pain the following day.  After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days.  Some clients will feel slightly dizzy after receiving bodywork.  For this reason, it is recommended that you get up slowly from the table at the completion of the session.

What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?
Massage and bodywork can help release chronic muscular tension and pain, improve circulation, increase 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, the practitioner asks general health questions. It is very important that you inform the practitioner 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.