FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT WILL THE FIRST SESSION BE LIKE?
When you arrive at the office, I’ll have a brief intake form for you to complete. We’ll talk about why you’re coming in for a massage and what you your goals are for the session. Are you having pain? Do you need to relax?
I’ll show you the massage room and walk you through the massage process. Feel free to ask any questions at this time. I’ll leave the room and give you plenty of time so you may undress, get on the massage table, and get comfortable under the draping sheet & blanket.
Most massage techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, what you wear it is entirely up to you. Simply put: bottom undergarment can be left on or taken off. You will be properly draped throughout the massage.
Depending on the issues we’re planning to address, I may start the massage on your face, neck and shoulders, or maybe on your back. I use a light, unscented lotion. While I have scented essential oils, I will never use them without your prior permission.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING THE MASSAGE?
It’s great if you can let your body relax and sink into the table.
It’s really important for you to tell me if any massage techniques I use cause pain. Pain is not okay. There may be a certain level of discomfort and ‘good ache’ if we’re working on a problem area. It’s important that you tell me about that, too, so we can tailor the massage to be most effective without causing injury.
I’ll check in with you as we go, but please speak up if you become too warm or too cool, if you are not comfortable on the table, or need another pillow etc.
SHOULD I TALK DURING A MASSAGE?
Sure, if you’d like to talk go right ahead. The important thing to remember is that this treatment is all about YOU relaxing and enjoying the experience. Many therapists discourage talking in hopes that you will relax, let your mind float free and enter a state of massage bliss.
In many instances, people may feel more relaxed starting off talking, and as the massage progresses, enter quiet states of relaxation.
The important issue here is that there are times when you need to speak up. If I am doing anything to make you uncomfortable, you should let me know immediately. Also, let me know if you get too warm or too cold, if the music is too loud, or if the pressure needs to be changed (lighter or deeper). If something is not working for you – speak up! It’s OK!
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR DURING THE MASSAGE?
I’ve found many massage therapists and bodyworkers say, “Undress to your level of comfort.” I think that’s way too vague. And people new to massage have no idea what that means. Heck, I’m not even sure what that means. Here’s what you need to know about clothing during a session:
First, no matter what, you’ll always be covered (draped) with a sheet and a blanket. You’ll never be left feeling exposed or chilly. When I work on an arm, I fold the sheet back and tuck it under your arm so it’s secure. (No drafts, my friends.) I follow the same protocol for the leg.
When I work on the full back, I fold the drape down at the hips. If you’re wearing underwear I’ll gently tuck the sheet around the waistband, to protect your clothes from massage oil. If you’re wearing a bra, I’ll work around it. If you’re wearing a tank top or shorts or long johns, I’ll work through it. I know plenty of very effective massage techniques that can be administered over clothing. If I feel I can’t effectively treat your issue through the clothing you’ve chosen to wear, I’ll tell you, and we’ll figure out another approach.
Please know that I don’t care, and I’m not judging you. This massage is about you and it’s important you feel comfortable. For some people that means leaving some clothing on. For others, it means taking it all off. There is no right or wrong, this is your massage.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER THE MASSAGE?
You should expect to feel mellow and relaxed after your massage. If we addressed pain issues, you may immediately feel a reduction in pain, or it may take a day or two before you feel that relief. If you are ever very sore following a massage, (it’s rare, but it can happen) please call me so we can discuss the best course of action, and so that I can make notes to adjust your next massage.
IS A MASSAGE ALWAYS NECESSARY?
No, there are several medical conditions that would make massage unnecessary. That’s why you fill out the health history form before you begin your session. I will ask general health questions to rule out if you have any contraindications to massage. 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 prior to any session. Recommendation or approval from your doctor may be required. If you are unsure about a particular medical condition, please contact me via phone or email. I can help you make an informed decision about whether massage is appropriate for you.
SHOULD I CANCEL MY MASSAGE WHEN I’M SICK?
Short answer: Yes, please.
Long Answer: When you are sick, your body needs rest. It’s strange to think about it this way, but receiving massage is an active task, it is not entirely rest. Massage causes change in the body, and your body has to work to maintain stability. Getting a massage when you are sick takes attention away from infection-fighting. That’s no good.
You’re not going to be cozy on the massage table. Sure, it sounds like a warm squishy massage table would be great. But the moment you put your already-stuffy head into that face cradle, you’ll realize the error of your ways. Gravity and pressure are not your friend here. Even if I do a great face massage to drain your sinuses, you’ll likely feel worse when you get off the table.
You could get me sick. Since most of the common winter viruses are contagious even before symptoms show up, I could pass the cooties along to more clients before I even know it’s happening.
WHEN SHOULD I CANCEL?
If you have nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea in the past 24 hours, or are still feeling pukey from a recent bout of such things.
If you’ve had a fever in the past 24 hours, or fever-related symptoms. This includes chills, aches, and fatigue. Even if you’re keeping the fever down with medicine, you’re still sick. The fever counts.
If you are itchy, runny, and/or sneezy, and its not seasonal allergies (even then, allergies may leave you so miserable that the hour on my table would be wasted time and money for you).
If you are coughing constantly, or just a lot.
SHOULD I LEAVE A TIP?
I don't accept tips. If you feel compelled to show gratitude, please consider checking-in on social media, writing an online review, or referring a friend.