Where will my massage session take place?
Must I be completely undressed?
Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
Will I be covered during the session?
What parts of my body will be massaged?
What will the massage feel like?
Are there different kinds of massage?
What should I do during the massage session?
How will I feel after the massage session?
What are the benefits of massage?
Are there any medical conditions that would make massage inadvisable?
Where will my massage session take place?
There are two options... a warm, comfortable, quiet room in my home or an outdoor area on my patio surrounded by fish ponds, a whirlpool hot tub, and the sound of waterfalls. A bathroom is located directly across from the massage room.
Must I be completely undressed?
Most massage techniques are traditionally performed with the client completely unclothed; however, it is entirely up to you what you want to wear. You should undress to your level of comfort. You will be appropriately draped to your comfort level. If you choose the Esalen style massage, draping will be minimal, but will be discussed at the beginning of your visit.
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 or towel.
Will I be covered during the session?
You will be draped to your comfort level at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed. If you prefer to receive your massage without draping, that is also ok, but you must request and authorize that.
What parts of my body will be massaged?
A typical full-body session will include work on the entire body except for the breasts (on females) and the genital region. If there are any specific areas that you prefer NOT to be massaged, please tell the therapist. There are some circumstances where breast massage for females can be beneficial and it is available on request but requires completion of a written authorization. (Breast massage can help relieve pain caused from surgical scars or fibrosis; and some clients just like it because it makes the massage feel more 'complete'.)
What will the massage 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 oil or lotion is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. The oil 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.
Are there different kinds of massage?
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. I use a variety of techniques on each person, customized to best fit your issues. There is also an option for using hot stones to enhance the massage experience. We can discuss which methods may be most appropriate for you.
What should I do during the massage?
Prior to the massage, feel free to ask the practitioner any questions about the technique or the upcoming session. During the massage, make yourself comfortable. The practitioner 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?
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 extra water following your massage.
What are the benefits of massage?
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 and create an overall sense of well-being.
Are there any medical conditions that would make massage inadvisable?
Yes, there are several conditions that could be made worse by massage. Before you begin your session, the practitioner will ask you some general health questions. 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. Depending on the condition, approval from your doctor may be required.