Click a question below to learn more.
- What should I expect during my first massage therapy visit?
- You will need to come about 10 minutes early to fill out a health history form. Afterwards you will be asked some general questions to establish what areas you would like worked on, if there are any conditions needing to be addressed and to determine if massage is appropriate for you.
- Where will my massage session take place?
- Your massage or bodywork session will take place in one of our comfortable, quiet rooms on a heated table, with soft music to help you relax.
- What do I wear during the massage?
- Depending on the primary technique, you may or may not need to undress. For a full body massage, most people undress completely or, you may choose to wear underwear if you are not comfortable. Your massage therapist will give you privacy to undress, and you will be covered with a sheet at all times except the area being worked on. Massage Therapists are specially trained in "draping" which is a special technique designed to keep you covered at all times during your session.
- What do I do during a massage therapy treatment?
- Make yourself comfortable. If your therapist wants you to adjust your position, they will either move you or will ask you to move what is needed. Otherwise, change your position anytime to make yourself more comfortable. Many people close their eyes and relax completely during a session; some sleep, others prefer to talk. It's up to you. It is your massage, and whatever feels natural to you is the best way to relax. Do not hesitate to ask questions at any time.
- How will a massage feel?
- It usually depends on the techniques used. Your session may start with broad, flowing strokes (effleurage) 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. The therapist will ask you if the pressure is okay. At anytime you feel the pressure is too light or too intense; please inform your therapist and they will adjust the pressure per your comfort levels. Often, a light lotion is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. Do not hesitate to ask questions or mention if you feel any discomfort so that the massage therapist can use another approach or technique.
- Is a massage always appropriate?
- No, there are several medical conditions that would make massage inappropriate. That's why it is necessary that you fill out the health history forms before you begin your session. Your therapist will ask general health questions to rule out if you have any contraindications to massage. 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, you will need bring a written approval (Rx script) for massage prior to your session.
- How long will a massage treatment last?
- The average full-body massage treatment lasts approximately one hour. A half-hour appointment only allows time for a partial massage session, such as neck and shoulders, back or legs and feet. Many people prefer a 60- to 90-minute session for optimal relaxation and treatment. Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session.
- How will I feel after the massage therapy treatment?
- 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. You therapist my also recommend a hot Epsom salt bath that encourages the release of toxins that may have been stirred up from the massage treatment.
- Who can benefit from receiving massage/bodywork?
- Individuals in all walks of life can enjoy the benefits of massage/bodywork. If you are a stressed-out executive, a student, a laborer, or a stay-at-home mom, massage/bodywork may be an option to aid you on the road to recovery, well-being or maintaining your level of health. Massage/bodywork can help release muscular tension and pain, reduce mental and physical fatigue, reduce stress, and promote faster healing.
