Who can benefit from massage?
Massage is beneficial to just about everyone
in every age bracket and at every level of physical activity. Massage helps release the stress and tension of a tough day
(or week) at work as well as relieve soreness and stiffness in the muscles associated with overuse and repetitive actions
(too much time at the computer, a day behind the wheel of the car). Athletes at all levels benefit from improved performance
and a shorter recovery period.
Is a doctor's referral required?
No, you do not need a referral from your
doctor to receive massage. However, if you have a specific medical condition, you may want to consult with your primary care
physician first and make your massage therapist aware of any pre-existing conditions prior to the start of the treatment.
What can I expect when I arrive for my massage?
When you arrive for your
first massage you will be asked to complete a brief form that provides the massage therapist with general information about
you and your body, addressing any particular health concerns and contra-indications that may affect your massage. Rest assured
that all information is confidential and is not shared with anyone. You will have time to discuss how your body feels, where
you hold stress and tension and what your expectations are for the massage session. This is also a time for you to ask any
questions you may have for the therapist. The therapist will then leave the room while you undress and get on the table.
What is full body professional massage?
Full-body massage is the type
of work most therapists are taught in massage school. The entire body, with the exception of the breasts and genitals, is
treated during the course of the massage session. Specific areas of concern, such as low back pain and neck tension, can receive
concentrated focus. It has come to my attention that some individuals inquiring about full-body massage are looking for sexual
or erotic massage. My work is professional in nature and is non-sexual.
Do I wear anything during the massage?
It is recommended that you completely
undress for your massage session. A sheet or towel will be used to drape your body, revealing only the area being worked.
Your comfort is the most important part of the massage session. Therefore, if you prefer to wear some clothing during the
massage, this is totally acceptable.
Do I need to do anything during the massage?
Be open and receptive to
the bodywork. Leave the worries of the office at the door. Let your body relax and sink into the table as you listen to the
quiet music in the background. Take a couple of slow, deep breaths. Breathing is your key to letting go of stress and tension
in the body. You will receive greater benefits from the massage the more you breathe. Allow your body to be heavy. The therapist
will move your arms and legs as needed and you do not have to help. This is your time to be taken care of and supported. To
ensure your comfort, communicate with the therapist about the pressure being used (too much, not enough), the position of
your body and any boundary issues or areas of discomfort that may arise. Any other conversation is completely at your discretion.
Keep in mind that talking may be distracting from allowing your body to fully relax.
Who is in control of the massage session?
Many people think that they
have to give up control once they lie down on the massage table. This is not the case. You are in control of the massage session.
One of the keys to receiving a good massage is communicating with the therapist. If a particular movement or position is uncomfortable
or if the pressure is inappropriate, let the therapist know so that the approach to the massage can be changed to meet your
needs. It is my goal as a massage therapist to make sure that your body receives the best possible experience.
Is there anything I should do after the massage?
Drink water – lots
of water. During the massage, your body will release toxins from the muscles into the bloodstream and the result may be a
little soreness (similar to a good workout at the gym). By drinking plenty of water, you assist your body's natural functions
in flushing the toxins from the system, preventing them from being reabsorbed into the muscle.
How often should I receive a massage?
I believe that the frequency of
when you receive massage is a personal choice. I encourage my clients to listen to their body and see how long they feel that
they hold the benefits of their massage treatment. Ask yourself how much stress and activity is in your life and how can you
minimizing their negative effects, taking better care of yourself. Some people receive a massage weekly, every other week
or once a month, while others maybe only once or twice a year. It is a question of what fits your lifestyle and budget. Remember,
massage can be preventative health care as well as a pleasant indulgence and can be most beneficial when received with some
degree of regularity.
What forms of payment do you accept?
For your convenience, I accept MasterCard
and Visa. Of course, cash is always welcome.
Is tipping appropriate?
Leaving a gratuity is completely at the discretion
of the client. If you feel that you received a quality massage or your expectations were exceeded, a gratuity is a nice way
of showing your appreciation and thanking the therapist.
