Expert Holistic Healing & Healthcare Through Massage Therapy, Aromatherapy, Energy Work, Herbal Mixtures and Crafts
Will I be covered during the session?
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You will be properly covered or draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed, then recovered. No areas will be exposed without your consent. You should always let your therapist know if you are uncomfortable for any reason during your massage session.
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Do I have to be completely undressed?
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You should undress to your desired level of comfort. Some of my clients prefer to be completely undressed, while others prefer to keep undergarments/underwear, bikinis, or some form of other comfortable, non-movement restricting clothing on. This is completely up to you. You will undress and dress in privacy and will be securely covered by a blanket and/or sheet during your massage session.
What do I do to prepare for my massage session.
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You should consider the 4 basic elements that factor together that will create the best personalized overall experience for you.Time, Space, Atmosphere, and Self.
First and foremost, think about about time! Not just time on the table, but the time required for your personal preparation needs AND also my setup and take-down as well. More detailed information can be found here.
What should I expect during my first massage therapy visit?
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You will be asked to fill out the New Client Intake Form. (download here) Afterward we will begin by asking you general questions, about your health history, and current healthcare treatments and therapies. Additional questions will be asked to establish what areas you would like worked on, if there are any conditions needing to be addressed, and to determine if massage is appropriate for you. Your massage therapist may perform certain assessments and testing to evaluate your condition and to see if you have any presenting complaints.
It is important to list all health concerns and medications so the therapist can adapt the session to your specific needs without doing any harm. It is also important to list any allergies so the therapist is aware if they need to use different oils, lotions, or herbs during the session.
Will the massage hurt?
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This depends on your present condition, the type of massage, and the depth of the strokes. A light, relaxing massage, that doesn't probe very deep into the muscles, shouldn't hurt at all and is intended to be soothing and relaxing. With that being said, for deeper massages 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 should 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.
Over time, as your body responds and adapts to the therapies, you will become more accustomed both mentally and physically. Techniques can then be advanced, pressures increased until we find your personalized massage.
How will I feel after my massage treatment?
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Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience a significant decrease or relief 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 levels of well being and 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.
What may restrict me from getting a massage?
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There are few conditions which would prevent you from enjoying massage. You should cancel any pre-scheduled massage or not book a massage, if you have a fever, cold/flu, contagious skin infection, or standing doctor's restriction. That's it.
There are many other conditions in which your therapist may need to adapt her techniques (i.e. arthritis or osteoporosis) or avoid an area completely (i.e. cuts or burns). With some conditions it is a good idea to get an approval from your physician before you receive massage (cancer, certain heart conditions, pregnancy). This doesn't mean you can't get massage. But its always better to err on the side of caution.
What does a massage therapist’s license or certifications mean?
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A license means that a massage therapist has met the requirements and paid the fee(s) to legally practice massage in your city, county, and/or state. To obtain a license, a massage therapist will usually have to complete a minimum number of prerequisite training hours at an accredited or accepted school or training center. Certificates typically identify levels of achievements in education and specialized therapies.
How often should I receive a massage?
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For those who use massage as preventative care or to manage daily stress, one massage a month is common. Weekly sessions may be desirable if you are receiving massage for injury relief or to relieve chronic tightness that is interfering with your athletic activities, or even your daily life. There are many people who incorporate massage therapy at least twice a month for optimal therapeutic relief and recovery. Your personal individual needs will be assessed beginning with our consultation, and re-assessed continuously as we progress through your treatments.
Does insurance cover massage therapy sessions?
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That depends on your insurance provider and policy coverage. For those who "qualify" and can claim massage sessions for medical deductions or re-reimbursements, you will need a doctors referral.
Payment of massage services are still to be made in any of the standard accepted forms and terms. A receipt will be provided for your claim submission to your insurance provider. Your Insurance can not be billed directly.
