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?

Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
Your massage or bodywork session will take place in the comfort of your own home or office. Soft music may be played, the sounds of nature, or even silence to help you relax. You will lie on a table specially designed for your comfort.

Must I be completely undressed?
Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, you should undress to your level of comfort. You will be properly draped during the entire session so as to prevent any exposure to the therapist. 

Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
No. The practitioner will, most definitely, leave the room to allow you to undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet.

Will I be covered during the session?
You will be properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable and no private areas will be exposed by the therapist. Only the area being worked on will be exposed. If you have specific areas you wish to not have undraped, discuss this with your therapist so that together, we can protect your needs for modesty. 

What parts of my body will be massaged?
A typical full-body session will include work on your back, arms, hands, glutes, legs, feet, abs, neck, & scalp.  If you wish to have any specific area avoided, please make that clear to your therapist. 

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 called effleurage, that will help calm your nervous system and relax exterior muscle tension. As your body lets go and becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax specific areas, and other techniques and modalities will be used to target your muscular tension. 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 to your therapist if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken. Massage and bodywork are most effective when your body is not resisting; completely relaxed.

Are there different kinds of massage and bodywork?
Yes. There are numerous types of massage and bodywork; various techniques utilize different strokes, including basic friction 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 and customize your session based on your personal wants and needs.

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 gently guide you on what is needed throughout the session. 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 your comfort in session. If you have any questions about the particular technique you are receiving, feel free to ask your therapist.

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 may also experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days. There are times that those with certain underlying medical conditions may feel some dizziness upon standing after the massage, such as those with diabetes or blood pressure disorders. It can take a moment for your nervous system to find your center of balance. It is recommended you drink plenty of water following your massage. Please communicate with your provider if you are feeling dizziness for longer than what you would consider to be normal. 

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 is why it is imperative that, before you begin your session, you and your therapist discuss general health questions. It is very important that you inform the therapist of any health problems, communicable diseases, or medications you are taking (especially topical medications) so that the proper care can be rendered to keep both you and the therapist safe. 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.