What kind of massage should I book?

 If you are looking for general relaxation and stress relief, the therapeutic massage with elevations such as hot stones, aromatherapy or sound therapy are all fantastic options.  If you prefer heavy deep pressure and relief from injuries, Deep tissue or Ashiatsu-barefoot bar massage are the best choices for you with either CBD or Ache pain relief balm for extra relief.  I do need to know which massage you wish to schedule at the time of booking as I may need to take time to specially prepare each service, including products and equipment prior to your arrival.  If we determine that a massage other than the one you scheduled would be more appropriate for your health or preferences, we can always adjust.​

 

What is deep tissue?

When someone requests "deep tissue" most mean heavy pressure. Deep Tissue massage by definition means addressing the deeper layers of the soft tissue. Some of the best techniques for this are more gentle techniques such as Myofascial Release. I can use both heavy pressure or perform Deep Tissue massage. It really depends on what you are requiring. I will work with you during the consultation to determine the best treatment for your preferences and needs.

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How do the therapist and I begin the session?

After a brief interview where I identify your interests and needs, I will leave the room while you disrobe to your comfort level and lay down between the sheets on the massage table. I will ask if you are ready in a few minutes. After I enter the room I will take a few seconds to focus my intention, and begin the session.

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Do I need to take my clothes off for a massage?

I am able to work with you if you are fully clothed but certain techniques will be challenging or impossible if the area being worked on cannot be directly worked on so this is not preferred. Many clients choose to leave on specific clothing items such as their underwear for comfort and boundaries. This is common especially if no direct glute or psoas work needs to be done. Soft sheets and a warm blanket are used to keep you covered for modesty during your massage. If you are concerned about being cold, I have heated tables and if you are concerned about being to warm I am able to remove the top blanket and leave the heater off. I respect you and use proper draping techniques that will only reveal the area of the body I am working on and never reveal more than you'd show at a public pool.  If you have any fears or anxieties, please feel free to discuss them with me.

 

Are massages supposed to hurt to work?

A bit of "good hurt" is okay when working a tight muscle group or trigger point, especially with deep massage techniques, but in general massage should feel good.  If you experience more discomfort than a 6 out of 10 on the pain scale during your treatment, please tell me right away.  You can't force relaxation on a muscle.  If your treatment feels great, but you are sore the next day that is also normal. This is why we recommend self care. Your body is just adjusting and possibly detoxing.  Keep me updated on how your feeling and I can adjust your next massage or suggest different post-care suggestions to help reduce the risk of day-after soreness.  Anyone that tells you that massage has to hurt to work has been misinformed.

 

Do I have to talk during my massage or am I supposed to be quiet?

I respect that your massage time is an opportunity to completely zone out. If you are receiving a massage targeting an area of pain or an injury I may need to check in with you more to ask you to engage different muscle groups and even help you with some gentle stretching. so there will be more discussion in this scenario.  If the best way you relax is to talk, than by all means, feel free to do so.  It is your session and I will take cues from you.

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What parts of my body will be massaged? Can it just be one part of my body like my legs or back?

What you want out of your session can be communicated with me early and modified as the session progresses if you'd like. If you want the focus to be on one or a few particular areas for the whole time period, simply tell me. I want you to receive what is needed specifically for you. A full body massage typically includes work on back, shoulders, neck, arms, hands, legs, feet, and scalp work if you'd like.

 

Do you use lotion or oil?

Unscented organic massage lotion, creme or unscented body butter from Prarielife Herbs is what I currently use. I prefer to use a cream or locally made body butter because they glide smoothly gripping just enough so there is no sliding, slipping or leftover residue.

 

Why and how does massage work?

Massage causes physiological changes in your body through the relaxation response, which is involuntary, yet predictable response of the nervous system to massage touch. As well as mechanical responses, which are physical effects that occur in the body when pressure is applied to the soft tissues

together these responses can produce physical and emotional benefits.

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 Increased blood flow cleanses areas and promotes faster healing of injured muscles as well as reduced blood pressure

2. Chronic tension or pain can be managed or eliminated with a more focused touch.

3. Stretching of fascia that surrounds muscles and tissues allow soft tissue within to relax and release.

 

These are only some of the ways massage works and why.

 

Why should I drink water after a massage?

Water helps your body flush waste products from your muscular tissues. Massage cleanses your body by getting waste moving..  Eliminating the waste helps you to maintain higher physical and mental energy levels.  By the time you're thirsty, you are often already dehydrated. Water is vital to survival and keeping all your tissues healthy and functioning efficiently.

 

How much water should I drink? 

You should drink around 8 eight-ounce glasses of water daily. Your body perceives anything other than water as calories and will need to digest them. This means it will take longer for your body to benefit from the water in a tea or other drink.

 

Should I tip?

Tipping is always appreciated but not expected. Many people tip $10-$20, or more depending on the length of time and the value of the service you receive. Feedback is always welcome. My goal is to provide the best possible massage experience.

 

How will I feel after the massage?

Relaxed, possibly sleepy, and less long-term pain. Repetitive action with your body though can cause you to potentially  need additional treatments.  Later you may have increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity. If you are very tense or stressed when you get the massage, the release of toxins stored in your muscular tissues could cause headaches or muscle soreness. Massage is a mini-workout for your body which brings benefit following any initial soreness. If you ever have a question about what you are feeling after the massage, be sure to ask.

 

Should I stretch between treatments?

YES. Stretching help prolong the benefits of a massage. A regular stretching routine between massage treatments can decrease muscle pain, increase flexibility, and reduce the frequency of treatments.

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How often should I get a massage?

Massages are cumulative. The more consistent your treatment schedule is, the more benefit you receive. Most clients come once a month. I can advise you about a plan that best fits your individual needs. 

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