Frequently Asked Questions
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Absolutely! My massage table measurements are 30”W x 72”L (84” long with headrest), and it safely supports up to 1000 lbs. I also have table extensions available, so if you find that your feet hang off the end or your arms fall off the sides, I’ve got you covered!
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Of course not! Your comfort is key to an amazing and effective massage, so go with what’s right for you. Some people remove everything, some leave on their undergarments, and others prefer to stay fully clothed. Whether dressed or undressed, you’ll be covered by a sheet and top blanket, and I always take care to respect your privacy with secure draping. Draping refers to the use of a sheet or towel for warmth and modesty, and only the specific areas being massaged will be uncovered. Genitals and breasts will never be exposed.
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No! If you can’t relax through what’s happening, your massage is not therapeutic. Some amount of discomfort is expected if we’re working on a problem area where pain already lives in your body, but that discomfort should be tolerable and come with a “good ache” that feels profoundly relieving. Massage that causes you to tense up, hold your breath, wince, clench your fists or jaw, etc., is too intense regardless of your capacity to tough it out. It’s important for you to tell me immediately if you ever feel discomfort or pain beyond that “good hurt” relief, so I can adjust my pressure or switch up my technique to ensure that your massage is both safe and effective.
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Up to you! It depends on your unique needs, goals, and budget, and those can change over time. Some like to treat themselves to massage a few times a year, while others prefer the benefits of regular massage. If you’re aiming to relax, a massage every two to six weeks is sufficient. If you’re looking to addess a specifc issue, it’s often best to start with weekly massages, and increase the length of time between sessions as we make progress. After your initial session, I’ll have a better understanding of your goals and how your body responds to massage, so if you’re still unsure, let me know and I’ll be glad to offer some insights.
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I don’t, but thanks! I’ve set my prices right where I need them to be, so save your dollars for more massage! If you feel like you have more to give, book a massage for the higher of the two available rates and enjoy some self-care that cares for others too.
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You should not get a massage if you have a fever, a cold, the flu, COVID-19, or other contagious illness or infectious skin condition. If you are sick, suspect that you might be sick, or notice any new and unexplained skin condition, please reschedule your appointment. Massage will not help you feel better, and I do not want to get sick or pose a risk to others.
You should not get a massage if your judgement is impaired due to the use of drugs or alcohol. It is important for your safety that you are able to give informed consent and reliable feedback within the context of massage.
There are other conditions that require adaptations to massage for your safety. Some conditions necessitate that only certain areas of the body be avoided, while others require gentler forms of massage therapy overall. It’s important that you fill out the initial Health Intake Form honestly and completely, and keep your massage therapist up to date on any changes to your health. If you are unsure of your situation, please reach out before your appointment and we can partner on the best way to move forward.
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Once you’ve scheduled your massage, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a link to fill out an initial Health Intake Form. This form is required and takes about 10 minutes to complete, so it’s best to do it before your appointment time.
Plan to arrive a few minutes early so that you can avoid the stress of feeling rushed. When you arrive, simply relax in the waiting area and I’ll come get you when it’s time to begin. Before your massage, we’ll chat about your goals, preferences, and any questions or concerns. I’ll also review your intake form and briefly go over a plan for your session to make sure we’re on the same page.
When we’re ready to move forward, I’ll step out of the room for about 3-4 minutes to wash my hands while you undress (if you choose to) and get comfy on the massage table under the sheet and blanket. If you need any adjustments to the face cradle or bolsters, I’ll help you with that when I come back in.
Once you’re cozy, I’ll start the massage with some gentle techniques over the blanket to help your body and nervous system settle in before progressing to more focused work. I use a light, unscented and non-allergenic jojoba oil to facilitate massage without irritation to your skin. I’ll check in with you periodically about things like the pressure I’m using or your comfort with the temperature of the room, but don’t feel like you have to wait for me to speak up! If there’s ever anything I can do to improve your experience, I want to know! Need a tissue? A pillow? Want a change in pressure? Hate the music? Need a bathroom break? Not sure what to do with your arms? No problem!
At the end of your massage, I’ll let you know that I’ll be stepping out of the room and will switch on the electric kettle before I do. That’s your cue to get up slowly, get dressed, and have some water or fix yourself some tea. You’ll likely feel mellowed out and relaxed. If we worked on any trouble areas, you may notice a reduction in pain or improved mobility, or it may take a day or two before you notice relief. After about 5 minutes, I’ll knock and come back in. We’ll chat briefly about how you’re feeling and what to expect next. Before you head out, I’ll also help you with payment and rebooking if you haven’t done that already.
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Not at all! In fact, most people don’t. There are some who enjoy a good chat during massage and can genuinely relax at the same time. That’s fine too! I’ll follow your lead. It’s your time.
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That’s called PMSM (post-massage soreness and malaise), and it does happen sometimes. It most commonly occurs after more vigorous forms of bodywork, like deep tissue or sports massage, and feels a lot like the soreness experienced after a workout. For most people, the soreness is mild and lasts only a day or two. Sometimes it shows up as a headache after lots of head and neck work. Less often, it can feel like having the flu. If ever you are very sore or feel flu-like symptoms after a massage, please let me know so that I can record your feedback and make appropriate adjustments to your next session.