top of page

Frequently Asked Questions about Massage

This is my 1st Massage Ever! What should I expect?

Before you begin your session, it is a good idea not to eat any large or heavy meals, sugar, caffeine, or other stimulants. You may also want to shower or bathe directly before your session, not only out of courtesy to your therapist, but also to help start loosening any tight muscles you might have.

Before your session begins, your therapist may ask you some questions regarding your medical history, physical condition, life-style, etc. Your therapist may assess any problem areas by observing your posture, checking for restricted or painful movement and gently pressing for tender areas while asking about any specific discomfort. 

Your session will be administered in a comfortable and private environment. Be sure to turn your phone off for maximum relaxation. This time belongs to you and nobody else.

Your therapist will give you privacy to disrobe and slide under our fresh sheets. Most people do not wear any clothing during their massage, but it is up to you to decide what you are most comfortable with. You will be draped properly and covered by the sheet. Next, clear your mind, and let the therapist do all the work. Enjoy!

What Will the Massage or Bodywork Feel Like?

A general massage session will consisted of 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. Everyone has their on preference of pressure; some like deep pressure while others may like a lighter touch. If the muscles are tight or injured it may be a little tender due to waste products built up in the muscle tissue. The massage session should be pain free, but if you feel any type of discomfort, you should communicate with your therapist immediately so that another approach can be taken. Massage and bodywork are most effective when your body is not resisting.

Must I Be Completely Undressed During My Massage?

Most massage and bodywork technique are traditionally performed with the client completely unclothed. However, what to wear is entirely up to your level of comfort. You will be properly draped during the entire session. The chair massages are performed with the client fully clothed and the orthopedic massage are performed with the client in either shorts or an athletic attire.  

What Should I Do During a Massage or Bodywork Session?

Nothing! This is your time to relax and feel the stress melt away. Your job is to make yourself comfortable. The practitioner may gently move you or tell you what is needed during the session (such as lifting your arm). Many people just close their eyes and completely relax. Many often fall asleep during a massage session.

How Will I Feel After the Massage or Bodywork Session?

Most people feel very relaxed and in a state of euphoria. 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. Drinking plenty of water will rid the body of the toxins so that you will not be sore the next day.

How Often Should I Receive a Massage?

The soft tissue injury that you are experiencing now may be the result of an injury that has happened many years ago. Everything in the body is connected, and muscles have a tendency to fight over joints. It may take more than one session to reprogram the muscle(s) to return to its normal resting length, especially if you continually ignore your muscle pain.

In order to relieve continual muscle pain, the therapist must treat the source of the muscle imbalance. Depending on the type of injury, the therapist will determine how often you should schedule a massage in order to reach the full benefits. Normally the recommendation is for once a week starting out, you will then notice some progress being made. Then you will be recommended to schedule once every two weeks, then once every three weeks until the injury is finally healed. It is always recommended to receive a maintenance massage at least once a month to prevent any further injuries.

A massage will get you closer to living a pain free life but you must do your part to retrain your muscles so that you won't fall back into the same old pattern that caused the imbalance and subsequent pain.

Are There Any Medical Conditions That Would Make Massage or Bodywork Inadvisable?

Yes. It is IMPERATIVE that, before you begin your session, you and your therapist discuss all general health questions. It is very important that you inform the therapist of any health problems or medications you are taking, even if they seem insignificant to you. 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.

Can I Receive a Massage While I’m Pregnant?

Yes, we do offer prenatal massage. Among some of the myths and old wives' tales surrounding prenatal massage is the misguided belief that massage should be avoided during the first trimester. It's fair to say that under skilled hands massage during the first trimester is not only safe, but can be especially supportive during the transitional first months.

bottom of page