Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
Must I be completely undressed?
Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
Will I be covered during the session?
What parts of my body will be massaged?
What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
Are there different kinds of massage and bodywork?
What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?
How will I feel after the massage or bodywork session?
What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?
Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable?
Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
Your massage or bodywork session will
take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music may be played
to help you relax. You will lie on a table especially designed for your
comfort.
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 be properly draped during the entire session.
Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet or towel.
Will I be covered during the session?
You will be properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed.
What parts of my body will be massaged?
A typical full-body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders.
What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
A relaxing Swedish massage is often a
baseline for clients. 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.
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. We can discuss
which methods may be most appropriate for you.
What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?
Prior to the massage, feel free to ask
the practitioner any questions about the technique or the upcoming
session. During the massage, make yourself comfortable. The practitioner
will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the
session (such as lifting your arm). Many people just close their eyes
and completely relax, communicating if/when they need more or less
pressure, another blanket, or anything else relevant to the session. If
you have any questions regarding the session or about the particular
technique you are receiving, feel free to ask.
How will I feel after the massage or bodywork session?
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. Since toxins are released
from your soft tissues during a massage, it is recommended you drink
plenty of water following your massage.
What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?
Massage and bodywork 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. Massage and bodywork is also known to promote better
sleep, improve concentration, reduce anxiety and create an overall sense
of well-being.
Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable?
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. Depending
on the condition, approval from your doctor may be required.