How long of a session should I plan to schedule?
A typical full-body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders and therefore requires at least 60 minutes to complete. More time should be added if you need extra attention to any of those areas.
30 minute sessions are for focused work only (1-2 areas of focus maximum).
Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a comfortable, quiet room and you will have your choice of music to help you relax.
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 and then relax onto the table underneath a clean sheet and blanket.
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 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 relaxed and 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.
Should I leave gratuity? How much should I tip?
As hard-working massage therapists, we love when we get tipped for excellent service and will be grateful for anything extra that we get! That being said, we understand when tipping doesn't fit into your self-care budget and would like to remind (or inform) everyone of what we consider the "rule of thumb" for tipping your massage therapist:
-If your LMT is an employee at a spa or clinic, they are probably making bottom dollar for their hard work and taking home a small fraction of what you pay for the massage. Please tip them generously.
-If your LMT owns their place of business (as we do), they have set their own price according to what they expect to be paid. Tip if you feel it's appropriate, but no pressure.
