Frequently Asked Questions about Massage? ~ All Treatment time includes Consultation time ~
What should I expect during my first visit for Massage Therapy? You will be required to fill out a health history form. Afterward I will ask you some general questions to establish what areas you would like worked on, if there are any conditions needing to be addressed, and to determine if the massage you booked is appropriate for you. " It is important to list all health concerns and medications so that I can adapt the session to your specific needs without doing any harm. It is also important to list any allergies/Pregnancies as I may need to use a different oil or lotion during the session."
Do I have to be completely undressed? The simple answer is that you should undress to the level you are comfortable. For a full body massage, most get completely undressed. However, if you will be more comfortable during the session you can leave your underwear on. If removing all your clothes makes you too nervous and unable to relax, then you are not getting the optimal benefit from the session. You will always be given privacy to undress and get comfortable on the table.
Will I be covered in a towel/blanket? Yes you will except for when I am working on an area on the body and will only uncover the part of your body being worked on. The genitals (women and men) and breasts (women) will not be uncovered. If work is being done on a woman's abdomen, a second towel or sheet will be used to cover the breasts so the main sheet or towel can be moved to expose the abdomen.
What do I do during a massage session? Make yourself comfortable. If I need to adjust your position, I will either move you or I will ask you to move if needed. Otherwise, change your position anytime to make yourself more comfortable, this can often be a sign of the body readjusting back into itself. Many people close their eyes and relax completely during a session; others prefer to talk. It's up to you. It is your massage, and whatever feels natural to you is the best way to relax. Do not hesitate to ask questions at any time.
Will the massage hurt? This depends on the type of massage and the depth of the strokes and how the body is feeling on the day. A light, relaxing massage that doesn't probe very deep into the muscles, shouldn't hurt. With that being said, there is a 'feels good' hurt and an 'ouch, stop it' hurt. A good massage, even a really deep tissue massage, should always stay in the 'feels good' hurt range. Pain can be an indication that the muscle is possibly injured or inflamed and pressure would be adjusted. Also, pain can cause you to tighten up and negate the relaxing effects of the massage. The most effective and deepest massage always works with your body's natural response,not against it.
How often should I get a massage? "Some is better than none." What does that mean? Well, it varies from person to person. If you are just looking for some occasional relaxation, then a session every 3-6 weeks may be fine for you. However, if you are looking to address a specific condition, then it is recommended to go more frequently at first and then slowly taper down to a maintenance schedule. I would often recommend 3/4 session one to two weeks apart depending on your schedule and the level of work that needs to be done and this would then be moved to a session a month for 2/3 months and reviewed after this.
Can I talk during my massage? Yes, if you'd like to talk go right ahead. The important thing to remember is that this treatment is all about you relaxing and enjoying the experience. Many therapists discourage talking in hopes that you will relax, let your mind float free and enter a state of massage bliss. However many instances, people may feel more relaxed starting off talking, and as the massage progresses, enter quiet states of relaxation.
" The important issue here is that there are times when you need to speak up. If you are uncomfortable, if you get too warm or too cold, if the room is too bright, or if the pressure needs to be changed (lighter or deeper). If something is not working for you - speak up! It's OK! "
Does the music have to be playing? No it doesn't you can choose to have no music playing. Studies have shown that music at under 60 beats-per-minute has a calming, relaxing effect on the body and therefore can enhance your experience.
How will I feel after my massage? Most people feel very relaxed others will feel very emotional. 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. If you received a deep massage, you may be slightly sore the next day - much like a good workout at the gym. Sometimes a hot shower, or a soak in the tub can ease this soreness.
" After your session you should increase your water intake a bit. Just a glass or two more than normal is usually fine. This helps keep your body's tissues hydrated and healthy. "
How many sessions will I need? Honestly, its hard to say. Every person is unique and every condition is unique to each person. It may take one session or it may take several. We would be able to talk more specifically about this after your first session when I have had a chance to work with your body's tissues.
