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 on a comfortable table especially designed for your comfort, with quiet laboratory space with low lighting and soft music intended to help you relax. 

Must I be completely undressed?
Joint mobilization can be done completely clothed, as long as you can easily move in your clothing. Other 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?
Absolutley not. Your therapist leaves the room while you position yourself for your treatment. The therapist will knock and ask for permission to re-enter.

Will I be covered during the session?
Yes, you will be properly draped at all times to stay warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed.

What parts of my body will be massaged?
A typical full-body session will include work on your feet, front and back of legs, arms, hands, chest & abdomen, gluteal muscles, back, neck, face and scalp. Glutes (buttock muscles) can also be worked while covered by the drape, or not at all, depending on your preference. Ladies will be given a pillowcase to cover the breast area during the chest & abdomen massage. 

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 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?
Always feel free to ask the practitioner any questions you may have about the session. During the massage, make yourself comfortable and try to breathe deeply. 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. Try to release your body weight and allow the practitioner to be responsible for any necessary movement - consciously helping is actually counterproductive. The practitioner will let you know when your active participation is needed (such as turning over). 

How will I feel after the massage or bodywork session?
Most people feel extremely relaxed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. After a brief initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days. Drinking extra water after your session helps your body eliminate metabolic waste and extends the positive benefits of the 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, before you begin your session, 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.