FAQ

I will begin by asking you general questions to figure out what areas you would like to focus on, if there are any conditions needing to be addressed, and determine if massage is appropriate for you.

Everybody’s experience is different, although in general, it usually depends on the techniques used. I usually start off using Swedish massage, which is often a great baseline for determining the level of massage that will meet your needs. In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with broad, flowing strokes that will help calm your nervous system and start to relieve muscle tension. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure may gradually be increased to relax specific areas and relieve areas of muscle tension. Often, a light oil or lotion is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. Do not hesitate to ask questions or mention if you feel any discomfort so that I can use another approach or technique to meet your needs and expectations.

Thai:

Since Thai takes place on a mat on the floor and no lotions are used, this allows you to be fully clothed. However, it is recommended to wear loose-fitting clothes such as workout wear.

Full Body:

For a Full Body Massage, most people undress completely. However, you may choose to dress down to your comfort level, meaning wear underwear or sports shorts, and women may choose to wear a halter top or bra. The massage is for you, and your comfort level as to what you wear is totally your choice. I will leave the room, giving you privacy to undress to your comfort level and time to get under the sheet. While gone, I will wash up, and upon returning, will knock before entering.

Seated:

For a Seated Massage, you can wear any clothing you like, although lighter clothing allows me to better gauge the depth of the pressure required to meet your expectations and achieve maximum results.

First of all, make yourself comfortable. This is your massage, so your comfort level is most important.  If needed, I will make slight adjustments to your position so that your massage can achieve its maximum benefits for you.  Otherwise, feel free to change your position at any time to make yourself more comfortable. Some of my clients like to close their eyes, and for the majority of the massage, they are silent, while others prefer to carry on a conversation. Some prefer to fall asleep, and others stay awake. Whichever way you choose is up to you, as long as you are able to relax during your session. It is your massage, and whatever feels natural to you is the best way to relax. Do not hesitate to ask questions or give feedback at any time.

Everybody’s experience is different, although in general, it usually depends on the techniques used. Most importantly, your massage will relax you, relieving stress and beginning the process of assisting your body in healing any aches and pains.  As your body becomes relaxed, pressure may gradually be increased to relax specific areas and relieve areas of muscle tension. Often, a light oil or lotion is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. Do not hesitate to ask questions or mention if you feel any discomfort so that the approach or technique appropriate for you and your comfort and enjoyment can be achieved.

I use hypoallergenic massage oils (grapeseed) or lotions (sacred earth). However, if you have sensitivity to certain types of oils or lotion, please bring it to my attention immediately to prevent any unnecessary problems.

No, there are several medical conditions that would make massage inappropriate. That’s why it is necessary that you provide appropriate information to the questions that you will be asked before your session begins. This will allow me to determine if you have any contraindications or reasons not to proceed with a massage or to identify those areas that need to be avoided to prevent any injury. It is very important that you inform me of any health problems or medications you are taking. If you are under a doctor’s care related to any injury or ailment for which you are seeking massage, it is strongly advised that you receive a written recommendation for massage prior to any session. And obviously, if you have a cold, the flu, or an ailment that can be passed on, let me know so we can reschedule.

The average full-body massage treatment lasts approximately one hour. Many people prefer a 90- to a 120-minute session for optimal benefit and relaxation. Do note, however, that while many prefer these times, it doesn’t mean you have to have your session that long. In some cases, a session that lasts that long is not recommended until you become accustomed to massage and feel that more time is right for you.  I have several clients I see regularly (weekly, biweekly, or monthly) who have 90 minute or 120 massage sessions.

Most people feel very relaxed, which is the principal reason why I travel to you, instead of you having to travel to an office location. This way, you may remain totally relaxed, and you will not have to rush off back into your vehicle and into traffic, potentially undoing the work that was just done. Many people experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity such as typing on a computer or driving. 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 muscles during a massage, it is suggested you drink 2-3 more glasses of water than you typically would drink within the next 24 hours following your massage, as this will help remove those toxins and properly hydrate your skin and body.

This is up to you in terms of your perception of the need to reduce stress and/or relieve aches and pains. There are people whom I massage a couple of times a year, and there are others who utilize my services every week and have done so since I began as a massage therapist in 2005. There is no “right” answer other than what makes you feel your best.

I am happy to help with insurance claims for any and all injuries. Almost all insurers require that you first be approved by a Medical Doctor or a Chiropractor to receive reimbursement or direct payment to me for a massage for said injury. While health insurance companies are getting on board with accepting massage therapy as a valid form of preventative maintenance or rehab, not all of them cover massage therapy at this point. The best way to find out if it is covered is to call them to find out. Or, with your permission, I can call on your behalf to verify coverage for you. I do have my National Provider ID number, and I can bill both auto and health insurance companies if massage therapy by a licensed massage therapist (which I am) is covered.