Q: Where Will My Massage or Bodywork Session Take Place?
A: Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music may be played to help you relax. If you prefer no music or the volume raised or lowered, simply let your therapist know. You will lie on a massage table especially designed for your comfort.
Q: Who Will Perform the Massage or Bodywork?
You can be sure your session will be conducted by a professional who has received proper certified training.
Q: Must I Be Completely Undressed?
Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, it is entirely up to you what you want to wear. You should undress to your level of comfort. You will always be properly draped during the entire session. You will also be asked to remove any accessories you may be wearing.
Q: Will the Practitioner Be Present When I Disrobe?
The practitioner will always leave the room while you undress in private, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet and blanket. They will knock before entering.
Q: Will I Be Covered During the Session?
You will be professionally and properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed. Let the therapist know if you feel any discomfort in the way the sheets are draped. We want you to feel safe and secure at all times.
Q: What Parts of My Body Will Be Massaged?
You and the practitioner will discuss the desired outcome of your session. This will determine which parts of your body require massage. A typical full body session will include work on your back, legs, feet, arms, hands, head, neck, and shoulders. You will not be touched on or near your genitals (male or female) or breasts (female). You may, however, require work on your gluteal muscles (buttocks) depending on your condition. If this is the case, your therapist may work through the sheet or ask permission to properly undrape the area, making sure you are secure at all times.
Q: What Will the Massage or Bodywork Feel Like?
It 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 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. Often, 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. The practitioner’s strokes flow with your breath to enhance the massage.
Q: Are There Different Kinds of Massage and Bodywork?
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. Ask the practitioner about the methods he or she uses.
Q: How Long Will the Session Last?
The average full-body massage or bodywork session lasts approximately one hour. Many people prefer a 90-minute session for optimal relaxation and extra time for work on problematic areas. Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session. Hot baths, a relaxing stroll, or even a nice hot cup of chamomile tea can assist in and prolong the relaxation process.
Q: What Should I Do During the Massage or Bodywork Session?
Make yourself as comfortable as possible. The practitioner will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm). Try to “melt” onto the table with every breath. Be aware of your breathing pattern–make sure they are full, regular, and natural. Many people just close their eyes and completely unwind. Others like to talk during their session or let out sighs of relief. Feel free to ask the practitioner questions about bodywork in general or about the particular technique you are receiving. AND always let the practitioner know of any discomfort. Keep in touch.
Q: How Will I Feel After the Massage or Bodywork Session?
A: 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. If you received deep tissue work, you may feel soreness in the muscles that should go away in 1-2 days. Since toxins are released from your soft tissues during a massage, it is recommended you drink plenty of water following your massage.
Q: Are There Any Medical Conditions That Would Make Massage or Bodywork Inadvisable?
A: Yes. That’s why it’s imperative that, before you begin your session, the practitioner asks 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 or bodywork prior to any session. Your practitioner may require a recommendation or approval from your doctor.
