What can I expect at my first massage?
Plan to arrive for your first appointment approximately 10-15 minutes early from your scheduled appointment in order to fill out the necessary paperwork. You will be asked about your health history, current or past injuries, and any other medical conditions you may have. All paperwork is confidential and never released to anyone without a signed release from you. From there, a discussion of your goals and what you would like accomplished from the session will be addressed. This is the time to ask any questions you may have about massage therapy or any concerns you have before the massage session begins.
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.
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 and/or 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 session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders. However, depending on your particular needs, only certain areas of the body will be massaged in order to achieve the results you are looking for.
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.
Will I be sore after receiving a massage?
It is very important to remember to drink plenty of water after your massage session. This allows your body to flush out the toxins that have been trapped and then released from tight muscles. By not drinking enough water, toxins are allowed to re-circulate throughout the body which may cause stiffness and soreness the following day. If you do experience some soreness even after consuming plenty of water after the session, this is normal and will subside within one or two days.
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 even if you don't think it is relevant to massage therapy. 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.
How long of a massage session should I schedule my appointment for?
That will depend on the reason for your appointment and, of course, your budget. The longer the session, the more time I have to focus on your complaints. However, depending on your particular situation, a longer session may not be necessary or appropriate. If you are unsure, we can discuss your needs and come up with an appropriate time length. Keep in mind, your massage time on the table does not affect the time spent during the initial evaluation process. Extra time is set aside to allow for a thorough evaluation before the actual massage begins.
Is Deep Tissue Massage painful?
Many people have the wrong idea of what a deep tissue massage should feel like. In fact, it is not uncommon for people to drift off while receiving deep massage work. There may be some discomfort, but it should never feel painful. It is best described as a “good hurt”. Pain is an indication that pressure is too deep which can trigger a reflex response from the muscle causing it to tighten even further. The goal during a massage session is to relax and elongate these tissues. Each session builds on to the next allowing for deeper penetration into the muscles. It can take several sessions before the body’s soft tissue will allow for deeper work into these areas.
How often should I receive massage therapy?
That depends on your lifestyle. It is recommended to receive therapeutic massage at least once a month for general health and well-being. However, since the benefits of massage are cumulative, receiving more frequent sessions in the beginning can jump start your progress, especially if you are experiencing some sort of pain or discomfort. Many people find scheduling more frequent massage sessions works best for them.
Do you accept insurance?
I do not submit claims to your insurance company. However, a receipt can be provided for you to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.
Do I get a full 60 minutes when I schedule an hour massage?
Yes. You receive the full amount of actual massage time no matter how much time you schedule your session for. The only exception is if you are late for your appointment. If you are late, the time remaining of your scheduled appointment will be the amount of time you will receive and the full charge will apply.
Do you accept credit cards?
I accept cash, checks, Zelle, and all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express).
Am I supposed to tip?
Tipping is a personal choice. It is neither required nor expected, but always appreciated. You will still be provided with the same exceptional care regardless if you tip or not. In fact, the best tip you can give are referrals to your family and friends or writing a review on Google.
