Where will my massage session take place?

Must I be completely undressed?

Will the massage therapist 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 session take place?
Your massage session will take place in a beautiful private, warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music will 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 under sheets and blankets during the entire session to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be uncovered. Women who wish to receive abdominal massage will always be draped so that breasts are not exposed.

I honor professional draping techniques and your comfort is respected throughout the session.

Will the massage therapist be present when I disrobe?
The massage therapist will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with clean linens. The massage therapist will knock on the door and ask you if you are ready before entering the room to begin the massage session.

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?
That is up to you. A typical first full-body session will include work on your back, arms, hands, legs, feet, head, neck, and shoulders. You will be asked which areas of your body that you give permission to receive massage and may choose to include work done on the abdomen, buttocks, and face. Your treatment is all about you! You set the priorties and more time can be spent in any area you choose. 

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. A light lotion is usually used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. The lotion 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 is not resisting. Swedish massage is a relaxing and delightful sensory experience.

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. We can discuss which methods may be most appropriate for you.

What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?
Prior to the massage, feel free to ask the massage therapist any questions about the technique or the upcoming session. During the massage, make yourself comfortable. The massage 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, 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.

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, reduce headaches, 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 your session, the massage therapist asks general health questions. If this is your first massage, you will be asked to fill out the Client Intake Form. It is very important that you inform the massage therapist 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.