Frequently Asked Questions
Before we get started:
This is your massage. Speak up! During the massage, if you want anything changed: pressure, areas worked, position, temperature; please, let me know. You won't hurt my feelings by asking for something that will make you more comfortable. My role is to help you relax and enjoy.
What type of massage do you practice?
Some practitioners charge different amounts for different "types" of massages, often charging more for fancy-sounding "fad" treatments. I prefer to incorporate a variety of techniques into every massage, according to the needs and desires of each specific client. Some of the techniques I use include:
Swedish massage: a gentle, flowing style used primarily for relaxation and stress relief.
Deep Tissue: Firmer, slower, deeper pressure to maximize the physiological effect of the treatment on muscle tissues. Among other things, these techniques increase blood and lymphatic flow in the tissue, flushing out metabolic byproducts more efficiently and encouraging the body's natural healing process.
Myofascial massage: A set of slow techniques designed to stretch and release any adhesions in fascia, the connective tissue beneath the skin and around the muscle tissue.
Neuromuscular: Techniques designed to treat the nervous system's interaction with muscle tissues.
I have a variety ofunscented and naturally-scented massage oils and lotions available, including options for those with allergies or sensitive skin. (If you have your own favorite massage product, feel free to bring it.)
What should I expect from my first massage therapy visit?
When you first arrive, you'll need to fill out a health history form. (Or save time by filling it out online before you come!) The form will ask about things like health conditions, medications, past surgeries and injuries, and allergies. This information is important so that I can adapt the session to your specific needs while minimizing the risk of harm.
Then, I'll ask you some general questions about what your goals for the massage are, what areas you would like worked on, and whether massage is appropriate for you. After that, it's time to get started! I'll give you some privacy to undress and lie down, covered, on the massage table. Then, all you have to do is relax and make yourself comfortable!
Afterwards, most people feel very relaxed. Some experience a significant decrease or freedom from long-term aches and pains. Many feel a little slowed down for a short period and then notice an increase of energy, heightened awareness and increased productivity which can last for days.
Do I have to be completely undressed?
You should undress to the level you are comfortable. For a full body massage, many people prefer to undress completely. Others feel more comfortable leaving underpants on. Either way, you will be covered with a sheet throughout the massage, and only the area currently being worked on will be uncovered. I can always work around or through whatever clothes you choose to leave on, though it might reduce the effectiveness of the work.
How long does a massage take?
A full-body massage takes at least one hour. I allocate 60 minutes for a basic massage, or 90 for an extended massage. (I’m also happy to be flexible - if, say, you really want a 75-minute massage, or are in a hurry and only have time for a focused 45-minute massage, I can adapt the work and price accordingly.)
Will the massage hurt?
This depends on the type of massage and the depth of the strokes. A light, relaxing massage that focuses on relaxation and stress relief should not hurt. Deeper techniques meant to relieve muscle pain and tension may be uncomfortable, but any pain should always feel useful and therapeutic - it should feel like "good pain." If the pain feels unproductive or makes you tense up, let me know - different people have different pain tolerances on different parts of their body, so your feedback can help me adapt the work just for you!
After especially deep work, you may feel some soreness for a day or two. Some people also feel general malaise as their immune system responds to the flood of metabolic byproducts released by the work. This is normal, and is part of the body's self-healing process. Staying well-hydrated can help. A hot shower, or a soak in the tub can ease soreness as well, as can a good night’s sleep.
How often should I get a massage?
As often as you like! If you just want some occasional relaxation, you might go for a massage every couple of months. Once or twice a month is often enough to treat chronic muscle tension and pain, and to fight it off faster than it comes back. At the other extreme, if you have a specific condition you want to treat, I might recommend starting with 30-minute sessions twice a week, and tapering off to a maintenance level as treatment goals are met, over the course of a few weeks.
Is massage right for me?
In my opinion, there are few people who don't stand to benefit from massage. If you have had a recent cut, burn, or surgery, I can't work on that spot, but I can still work on the rest of you. However, some people should be careful:
You should not book a massage if you have a fever, a cold or flu, or any contagious skin infection.
I'm not certified to work with cancer patients without a note from a doctor confirming the treatment is ok, due to the effects of massage on lymphatic flow.
Trauma survivors who are still in the early stages of emotional recovery may wish to receive some form of psychotherapy or counseling before or alongside the massage—massage can trigger either flashbacks or dissociative episodes, and it’s important to have someone to discuss this with.