What do I wear for my massage?
Your comfort is our highest priority. With this in mind, you may disrobe to your personal comfort level. You will be under a soft flannel sheet to maintain your modesty, and we will uncover just one area at a time (back, legs, arms) as we progress through your massage. If you are comfortable doing so you may disrobe completely, or you may wear shorts or underwear. We do recommend that you remove all of your upper clothing so that we may use oils on your back and work those muscles more thoroughly.
What is the process of a massage like?
On your first visit we will have you fill out a form to help us understand your history and what you are currently experiencing. On future visits we will get a verbal update from you in order to plan the best approach for each session. Once we know what your main issue is we will determine if we should start you face-up or face-down.
Typically we will start from your head and move downward. If you have problem areas, we will address them as we go, or go directly to them, giving them the focus and time they need for the best result. If we have time, or you request it, we’ll give you a full-body massage.
Breathing is Essential
It is important to be mindful of your breathing throughout your massage, especially when a sore or tight area is being focused on. Two or more slow, deep breaths bring oxygen to the area and help it to release more quickly. Your therapist may coach you in your breathing when they feel it is needed, but you may choose to make use of this technique at any time.
Should I give Feedback?
Our therapists have the education and experience to help your body feel its best, but you know your own body and feelings better than anyone else ever could. We do ask that you give us input during the course of your massage for the very best results. Your therapist may give you specific guidance on how to keep them informed. As a general rule, we appreciate simple input in regard to the pressure, such as: “less/lighter”, “it feels good”, “more/deeper”, etc.
Should I tip?
As with many service industries a 15-20% tip is customary, though not obligatory. If you choose to tip you may do so according to what is within your budget and your satisfaction with the work you have received.
What should I do after my massage session?
Because your muscles have just released many wastes they need assistance in moving them out of your body as quickly as possible.
Within the two hours following your massage, we recommend drinking 32-40 ounces of pure water. This will immediately dilute the toxins that are now swirling around your system, as well as rapidly flushing them to the exits.
Through the course of the day, continue to take slow, deep breaths to oxygenate your muscles, as well as doing gentle stretching to keep them warm and loose.
What should I expect to feel after my massage session?
There are three ways a person typically feels after a first-time massage:
- You may float off the massage table and out our door feeling relieved and relaxed.
- You may feel a good muscle soreness, as if you’ve been working out, and a sense of having gotten to the root of the issue. This is due to the lactic acid and other wastes being worked out of your muscles during your session.
- You may feel a bit of a headache or mild nausea because your system is unloading so much waste. This response is very preventable, and the reason we advise you to drink plenty of water and take slow deep breaths to cleanse your body.
How frequently should I get a massage?
This varies from person to person depending on your individual circumstances. In the case of whiplash or other injury you may choose to come in 1-3 times a week for up to six weeks, and then spread them out as needed. Many individuals come anywhere from weekly to monthly to keep their stress under control and maintain their health. Others come for special occasions, or to manage chronic pain and tension when it flares up.
We offer packages to save you money and keep you on track with the goals you have in mind. Discuss the best scenario for you with your Massage Therapist.
We look forward to serving you. Enjoy your massage!