Frequently Asked Questions

What can I expect?
What do you need from me?
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?
I have allergies and chemical sensitivities. Are your services right for me?

What can I expect?
All services are strictly therapeutic in nature. They take place in your home, office, or other public setting where appropriate. When I arrive, I will give you some paperwork to fill out while I set up my table, chair, and/or other supplies. For most services, there will be an initial intake form that covers your health history and emergency contact information. At the end of your session, you may receive an optional satisfaction survey in-person or by e-mail. Tabled sessions are scheduled for 90 minutes each unless otherwise specified: you should receive about an hour of time on the table, while the rest is designated for set-up, paperwork, and take-down. Chair massages and reflexology sessions are shorter, but follow a similar format. I bring most of my own supplies and music, but you are welcome to provide your own sheets, lotions, or music.

What do you need from me?
I need to know where we'll be meeting and where I need to park. For tabled services, we will need room for a six-foot long massage table. Chair massages require about four or five feet of space, while reflexology sessions only require two seats. If you ordered the applicable add-ons, I will need access to hot water for foot soaks, a microwave to heat rice packs, an outlet for my hot towel warmer, etc. I ask that phones be turned off -- or on vibrate if you absolutely must. Pets are okay, but may need to be corralled for the duration of the session. Kids, significant others, and roommates are asked to respect our time. I will turn a blind eye to clutter and dirt, so long as such things don't affect your safety. Make your space comfortable for you!

Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
I travel to your home or office, or other public setting where appropriate. Your massage or bodywork session should take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. You can choose your own soft music to help you relax, or you can choose from my collection. Massage tables and chairs are especially designed for your comfort.

Must I be completely undressed?
You should undress to your level of comfort: you can remain fully clothed for some massages; otherwise, you will be draped with a clean sheet or large towel during the entire session. Polarity therapy and chair massage sessions are performed with the client fully clothed.

Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
I 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. Polarity sessions include scalp massage and foot reflexology.

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 any questions about the technique or the upcoming session. During the massage, make yourself comfortable. I 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.

I have allergies and chemical sensitivities. Are your services right for me?
While I do my best to be aware of those with allergies and chemical sensitivities, I cannot guarantee that my supplies, linens, and equipment are allergen and/or chemical free. If you would like more information, feel free to contact me.