Where will my massage session take place?

Your session will happen in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soothing music will play, and you will lay on a heated table specially designed for bodywork.

Must I be completely undressed?

While most massage is performed with the client entirely disrobed, it is up to you what you choose to wear or not wear. For Thai massage, it is preferable that you wear loose-fitting clothing, as there is a great deal of movement and stretching, and it is impractical to do so with traditional massage draping. Think of it as a yoga class…

Will I be covered during the session?

You will be draped at all times during the massage to ensure warmth and comfort. Only the area being worked on will be exposed.

What will my massage feel like?

A relaxing Swedish massage is a good 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, focusing on specific areas of muscular tension.  A light lotion is used to reduce  excessive skin friction, while allowing deeper pressure to muscles, and helping to 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.

Is there anything I should do before or after my bodywork session?

Prior to the massage, it is a good idea not to eat too large a meal or consume caffeine or alcohol. During the massage, focus on deep breathing, and simply relaxing your body. Your 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. After the session, drink extra water, because massage tends to flush the lymphatic system, and you will feel better if you rehydrate and move those waste products along.

How will I feel after my bodywork session?

Typically, you will feel very relaxed after your session. You may experience freedom from aches and pains that were present before the session. You may feel a little tipsy and slowed-down, which may be followed by an increase in energy levels, heightened awareness, and a sense of well-being that can last for several days. The lymphatic system will release toxins during your massage that may leave you feeling a little run-down, which is why it is always recommended to drink plenty of water following a session to help reduce the potential for that.

What are the benefits of bodywork?

Massage and bodywork can help reduce or relieve chronic muscular pain and tension, improve circulation, increase joint flexibility, reduce physical fatigue and stress, and promote faster healing of injuries. Maternity massage can help to reduce discomfort associated with pregnancy, ranging from sciatic pain to foot swelling. Deep Tissue Massage can help to rehabilitate injuries, or reduce the effects of old injuries and chronic conditions by breaking down scar tissue and increasing range of motion.

How often should I receive bodywork?

There is no specific interval that is required, it is very much up to the individual. When rehabilitating an injury, it is recommended to have weekly sessions for several weeks, tapering to every other week, and eventually once or twice a month. Many people receive a weekly massage, while others may only manage a couple of massages a year. How often one receives bodywork is entirely up to them, dependent upon their goals for the work and what their circumstances allow.

Are there any medical conditions that makes bodywork inadvisable?

Yes, that is why you are required to fill out an intake form before your session. it is important that you inform your therapist of any health problems or medications you are taking prior to your session.

Am I supposed to tip my therapist?

The rates charged are professional rates, and no tip is required or expected. The best possible tip you can give is to refer your friends to your therapist, and spread the good word. Everyone deserves quality bodywork.