FAQ'S

 

1. What should I expect during my first massage therapy visit? 

Your massage therapist will require you to fill out a health history form. Afterward, the therapist will begin by asking you 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. Your massage therapist may perform certain assessments and testing to evaluate your condition and to see if you have any presenting complaints.

2. Where will my massage 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.

3. What do I wear during the massage? 

Depending on the primary technique your therapist uses, you may or may not need to undress. For a full body massage, most people undress completely. However, you may choose to wear underwear. Your massage therapist will give you privacy to undress, and you will be covered with a sheet and blanket at all times except the area being worked on.

4. What do I do during a massage therapy treatment? 

Make yourself comfortable. If your therapist wants you to adjust your position, she or he 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; others prefer to talk. It's up to you. It is your message, and whatever feels natural to you is the best way to relax. Do not hesitate to ask questions at any time.

5. How will a massage feel? 

It usually depends on the techniques used. Many massage therapists use a form of Swedish massage, which is often a baseline for practitioners. In a general Swedish massage, 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, the pressure will gradually be increased to relax specific areas and relieve areas of muscular tension. Often, a light oil or 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

6. Will the massage oils used make me breakout? 

Most massage therapists use hypoallergenic massage oils or lotions. However, if you have a sensitivity to certain types of oils or lotion please bring it to the massage therapist's attention as most practitioners have an assortment of oils and lotions on hand.

7. 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 and before you begin your session. The massage 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, it is strongly advised that you receive a written recommendation for massage prior to any session. Your massage therapist may require a recommendation or approval from your doctor.

8. 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. Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session.

9. 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 message. Massage therapists sometimes recommend a hot Epsom salt bath that encourages the release of toxins that may have been stirred up from the massage treatment.

10. How often should I receive a message?

Many people choose to make massage a regular part of their wellness plan. I like my clients to listen to the body and to respond appropriately. The average person should receive a massage once a month, ideally

11. What is Therapeutic Massage?

Therapeutic Massage is the systematic manual manipulation of the soft tissues of the body for the purpose of promoting circulation of the blood and lymph, relaxing the muscles, relief from pain, and the restoration of metabolic balance. Anyone particular technique or a combination of several techniques can be used.

12. What are the benefits of Therapeutic Massage/ Bodywork?

Therapeutic massage and bodywork can improve circulation, help to loosen contracted muscles, and stimulate weak muscles. Therapeutic massage and bodywork can also aid relaxation, help to reduce stress, help to prevent and relieve pain from injuries and muscle spasm, and improve flexibility. It promotes deeper and easier breathing, improves posture, and strengthens the immune system. Therapeutic massage and bodywork also foster peace of mind and a feeling of well-being, promotes mental alertness, improves the ability to monitor stress signals and respond appropriately, and enhances one’s ability to calm thinking and creativity. It also increases the awareness of the mind-body connection.

13. Which technique is used most?

Swedish massage is the most widely known modality. The technique includes long strokes (effleurage), kneading movements (petrissage), friction both superficial and deep, vibration and percussion. Oils, lotions, and lubricants are usually applied. This technique is often used in combination with other techniques

14. Who can benefit from receiving massage/bodywork?

Individuals from all walks of life can enjoy the benefits of massage/bodywork. If you are a stressed-out executive, a student, a laborer, a stay-at-home mom, or an ill and homebound person, 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.