Where will my massage take place? 

Your massage session will take place in a warm, comfortable and quiet room. Soft music will be played to help you relax. Candles and low lighting will be present to further increase relaxation. You will lie on a table especially designed for your comfort.

Who will perform the massage? 

Your session will be conducted by a trained, licensed, nationally certified professional who has received proper training and certification, in a variety of techniques.

 

Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe? 

The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, relax on the table and cover yourself with a clean sheet. Blankets and heated table pad are available if desired.

 

Must I be completely undressed? 

Most massage techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed. You may decide what amount of clothing you are comfortable with, however.

 

Will I be covered during the session? 

You will be properly draped and covered at all times to keep you warm and comfortable.  Only the area being worked on will be exposed, as required by NCBMBT - North Carolina Board of Massage & Bodywork Therapy standards.

 

What parts of my body will be massaged? 

You and the practicioner 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, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, shoulders and face, if desired. You will not be touched on or near your genitals or breasts (females) ever.

 

Will lubricant be used? 

A lisht vegetable-based oil, cream or gel, either scented or unscented, may be used to permit your muscles to be worked on without causing excessive friction to the skin. As little as possible is used ~ most clients appreciate less amounts avoiding 'slimey' feeling. The lubricants used will hydrate the skin and be easily absorbed. Shower afterward is not necessary.

 

What will the massage feel like? 

It depends on the techinque used. In a wonderful  Swedish massage, your session will start with broad, flowing strokes which will help you to relax exterior muscle tension and to calm your nervous system. As your body becomes relaxed, there will be gradual increases in pressure, if requested, to relax specific areas and to relieve muscular tension. You should communicate immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken.  Massage is most effective and enjoyed when your body is fully relaxed, in both Swedish and Deep Tissue massage.

 

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 movements, posture and movement re-education, application of pressure to specific points, etc. Ask the practicioner about the methods she uses if you're not sure which best suits your needs.

 

How long with the session last?

The average full-body massage session lasts approximately 60 minutes. A 30 minute appointment only allows time for a partial massage session working on the neck, shoulders, legs or feet for example. The 30 minute massage is a more specific massage and suggested especially for a more structured schedule, example once or twice a week for one or more months. Most people prefer a 60 or 90 minute massage session for optimal relaxation and desired results. Try to allow relaxation time prior to and after session. Hot tubs, steam baths and saunas can assist in the relaxation process, but not available on-site.

 

What should I do during the massage? 

Make yourself comfortable. This time is for you! The practitioner will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm or turning over). Many people close their eyes and completely relax. Others like to talk during their massage. Feel free to ask the practitioner questions about your massage work in general or about the specific technique you are receiving. ALWAYS COMMUNICATE ANY DISCOMFORT or if pressure should be increased or decreased!!

 

How will I feel after the massage or bodywork session?

Most people feel very relaxed, experiencing freedom from aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people usually experience increased energy, heightened awareness and greater productivity which can last for days.

 

What are the benefits of massage?

Just to list a few, massage 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. (see my Benefits of Massage Page)

 

Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable (contraindications)?

Before you begin your session, your practitioner will ask you some general health questions. It is very important that you inform your 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 the session. Also, prenatal massage is strongly discouraged prior to the second trimester.

 

Health Care and Massage Therapy -- What's The Connection? 

As an adjunct to medical treatment, massage can be addressed to specific areas and is often recommended by doctors, psychiatrists and chiropractors to reduce such conditions as: backaches, headaches, muscle spasms and pain, hypertension, swelling and pain from injury or surgery. Combined with regular exercise, good nutrition and a positive sense of self, massage will work wonders. In addition, it is recommended for maintenance of circulation and body tone for bedridden patients: as a palliative treatmewnt for the comfort of those with terminal conditions.