Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music may be played to help you relax. For most types of treatments, you will lie on a table specially designed for your comfort. If you are receiving a Thai massage, your session will take place on a special mat on the floor.
must I be completely undressed?
Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed, the exception being Thai massage, which is performed with the client fully dressed; 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, relax on the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet.
Will I be covered during the session?
You will be properly draped with a sheet or towel at all times to keep you 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 back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders. Some types of bodywork, such as a Sports + Recovery massage or Foot Reflexology, focus specifically on certain areas of the body.
What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
A relaxing Swedish massage is often the baseline for clients. In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with broad, flowing strokes that will help you 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?
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.
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.
What is an appropriate percentage for gratuity?
The standard hospitality rate for massage tipping is 20 percent. For example, if a massage or body treatment costs $100, a 20 percent tip would be $20. If you're using a gift card, coupon, or promotion, it's standard to add gratuity according to the original cost of the treatment. If in doubt, please feel free to ask the practitioner.
How should I prepare for my massage or bodywork treatment?
- Be sure to drink water or herbal tea prior to your session. Hydration aids in the elimination of toxins which are released into the body's circulation during treatment. However, avoid stimulants like soda or coffee, and don't forget to use the restroom just before your session!
- Have a light snack. Although it will not bother your therapist at all, it can be quite distracting to hear your own stomach rumble or digest during your massage. Therefore, eating light, at least an hour before your treatment is recommended. In a pinch, fruits or other easy-to-digest snacks are a great last-minute option.
- Take a hot shower. Feeling fresh and clean before a massage will help you fully relax into the experience. The hot water will loosen your muscles before the massage even begins and will keep the tensions at bay when you shower again after the massage to remove any excess oil.
- Wear comfortable clothes. Your outfit may not be your priority when getting a massage. However, putting restrictive clothes back on after a treatment is no fun. Opt for comfortable clothes (and shoes) to prolong the feeling of relaxation.
- Arrive early. Arriving 10 to 15 minutes before your appointment time will allow you to fill out your health questionnaire without impinging on your massage.
- Let your practitioner know your preferences. Speaking up may feel counterintuitive to the usual quiet ambiance of a massage room. Nevertheless, you should always communicate your needs with your massage therapist both before and during the treatment. The more you tell your therapist, the better they can respond to your needs.
- Breathe. During your massage, leave all your worries behind. Focus on your breathing and take deep, long breaths. There is nothing left for you to do now but relax.