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 in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music may be played to help you relax. You will lie on a table especially designed for your comfort.
Must I be completely undressed?
Most 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?
The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet or towel.
Will I be covered during the session?
You will be properly draped 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.
What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
Therapeutic massage (including deep tissue massage) can be uncomfortable, but many patients describe it as "it hurts so good." The guideline is the deeper the work, the slower the movement. This allows you to assess how you're feeling, and communicate your needs to your therapist so they can adjust accordingly. During a rehabilitation massage (a massage session that is commonly used to treat injuries, such as from a motor vehicle accident, frozen shoulder or surgical rehab recovery) you will sometimes participate in the movement of your arms and legs, which helps facilitate a deep stretch or neuromuscular technique. Active/passive resistance is also commonly used in the therapeutic setting. If you just want to relax and zone out, 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?
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. Some people experience mild soreness as the lymphatic fluids move fresh blood flow into an area that needs healing, or the release of lactic acid that's built up in the body and is now released. The majority of people find that this discomfort is worth it, because the relief that comes after is much needed and appreciated. 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, decrease inflammation, increase joint flexibility, reduce mental and physical fatigue and stress, promote faster healing of injured muscular tissue, improve posture, and reduce blood pressure. Energetic/emotional blockages and trauma can also be released from where it is stored in the body and it is not uncommon to experience an emotional release (crying), but this is a normal and healthy part of bodywork, and most people feel better physically and emotionally afterwards. 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. If you have an active infection or are on antibiotics, you will need to reschedule your massage appointment. Although most clinics no longer check temperatures, if you have a cold/flu, have been exposed to bacterial, viral or fungal conditions, or share a home with someone who has an active infection of any kind, please notify your practitioner and reschedule your appointment. Being intoxicated or hungover is also contraindicated, and your practitioner will not work on you if you show up to an appointment under the influence or are experiencing symptoms of being hungover. Certain types of massage are also contraindicated. If you have cancer or are on blood thinners, for example, lymphatic massage and cupping wouldn't be advised. Please disclose all health conditions and concerns with your practitioner.
