FAQ

Can massage help with a medical condition?

Massage has been shown to have a range of health benefits, from lowering blood pressure to easing migraines. Research has demonstrated that massage may help relieve pain for patients with cancer, HIV, and Parkinson’s Disease. Massage can also help lower stress, which is a good thing for your overall health.

If you have a serious medical condition, you should clear a massage with your doctor first.

Will I be naked?

You only need to take off only as much clothing as you’re comfortable removing. You can leave your undergarments on if you choose, as massage can be done through clothing. The massage therapist will give you privacy while you undress and leave the room. During the massage, the therapist will use a sheet or towel to drape the parts of your body that are not being massaged.

A Massage is meant to be relaxing and we want you to be comfortable at all times. Keep in mind while receiving a massage everything can be adjusted i.e.. lighting, music, temperature. Don’t be afraid to speak up and tell us what you would like to be changed. Your comfort is important to us!

Is the massage going to hurt?

It shouldn’t hurt but you should keep the lines of communication open. If a therapist is pressing too deeply in an area you should tell them. You should never have to endure a massage. Sometimes correcting chronic injuries can be a little uncomfortable but it shouldn’t be painful. Massage should always leave you feeling better than when you came in.

Should I talk during the massage?

It’s up to you. Some people like to remain quiet and listen to music during the massage. Others like to make light conversation. Tell your massage therapist your preference. Whether you like to talk or stay quiet, you should absolutely tell the massage therapist if you’re uncomfortable — if you’re too hot, too cold, or can’t stand the music.

What if I fall asleep?

You may get drowsy during the massage, so don’t worry if you fall asleep. If you fall asleep, we know you are relaxed.

How will I feel after the massage?

You should feel some relief after a massage. Sometimes you may experience 24-48 hours of soreness. But it should be a good kind of sore, like you just had a workout. After a massage, you should feel relaxed and mellow. That has to do with the changes in neurochemicals like serotonin and endorphins. But don’t expect that a one-time massage will solve a lifelong backache or other chronic pain. A lot of people expect to be cured in an hour an important question to ask yourself: “How long did it take to get this backache and how long have I had it?” For many things, such as a backache, it’s a cumulative effect and you may need several consecutive treatments. It can take time.

How should a new massage client prepare for their visit?

Before Arriving

The most important thing you can do before arriving is to relax. Remember, this is an enjoyable experience that is designed to reduce stress and anxiety, not to cause it. Take a deep breath and assure yourself that this process will be a pleasurable one and try to remain open to suggestions as well as letting your mind rest during the process.

To reduce stress and anxiety, it’s important to do your part in the hours leading up to your massage. Plan accordingly, and try to avoid the frenzied panic that rushing to meet your appointment causes. Remember to drink plenty of water, and to avoid eating within 2-3 hours of your scheduled massage so that your body has plenty of time to digest big meals. If you have a massage scheduled on a lunch break, keep it light, as the massage process itself could prove to be uncomfortable on a full stomach.

Upon Arrival

Let the massage therapist or the receptionist know you are there and whom you have an appointment to see. Try to relax and let your mind enter a restful state while you await your appointment to enter the massage room.

Once you enter the room, the therapist will leave the room or provide you with the privacy needed to undress. Remember, you only have to remove as much clothing as you are comfortable with, and the massage therapist will provide you with a towel or sheet to drape over the parts of your body that aren’t being massaged. Modesty is respected at all times.

Before the therapist begins, it’s important to communicate honestly and accurately with the professional providing the massage. Inform them of any allergies to lotions, oils or powders that may be used, as well as providing them information about problem areas that cause you pain, or that you’d like them to avoid. This is also a great time to provide your therapist with information such as whether you’d like to remain quiet (or some prefer to talk), listen to music, or if you have a preferred style of massage you’d like to try.

Give honest feedback during the massage, and inform the therapist of any discomfort immediately. You are also free to comment on things you are enjoying such as specific amounts of pressure, areas that are enjoyable, and the speed of hand movements.

Above all else, relax and breathe normally. Try to relax your entire body and to become weightless while you enjoy your massage.

After the Massage

Spend a few moments lying on the table after the session is finished. Getting up too quickly often leads to lightheadedness and dizziness. Allow your body to acclimate before you slowly get up and dress.

Upon exiting the massage room, be sure to ask about scheduling more massage sessions. Massage has the greatest benefits with continued use, and the effects are cumulative, meaning that over time your body will begin to feel better, more relaxed, and help to reduce the effects of anxiety or pain with continued sessions.