Frequently
Asked Questions
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.
Who
Will Perform the Massage or Bodywork?
Your session
will be conducted by a trained professional who has received proper training,
often in a variety of techniques. Some massage and bodywork practitioners
are licensed by the state, while others are locally regulated.
Although no two massagers are exactly alike, you may request a certain technique
or modality. You may also request your preference as to a male or female
therapist.
Must
I Be Completely Undressed?
Most massage
and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed;
however, you may decide what amount of clothing you prefer to wear for your own
comfort. You will be properly draped during the 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?
You and the
practitioner will discuss the desired outcome of your session. This will
determine which parts of your body require massage. A typical full body
session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck and
shoulders. You will not be touched on or near your genitals (male or
female) or breasts (female).
Will
Lubricant Be Used?
A light oil
or lotion may be used to permit your muscles to be worked on without causing
excessive friction to the skin. The lubricants used should hydrate the
skin and be readily absorbed.
What
Will the Massage or Bodywork Feel Like?
It depends
on the techniques used. In a general Swedish massage, your session may
start with a broad, flowing strokes which will help to 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. 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. Ask the
practitioner about the methods he or she uses.
How
Long Will The Session Last?
The average
full-body massage or bodywork session lasts approximately one hour. A
half-hour appointment only allows time for a partial massage session, such as
neck and shoulders, back or legs and feet. Many people prefer a
60-90-minute session for optimal relaxation. Always allow relaxation time
prior to and after the session. Hot tubs, steam baths and saunas can
assist in the relaxation process.
What
Should I Do During the Massage or Bodywork Session?
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. Others like to talk
during their session. Feel free to ask the practitioner questions about
massage and bodywork in general or about the particular technique you are
receiving.
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.
Since toxins are released from your soft tissues during a massage, it is
recommended you drink plenty of water following your massage.
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 know 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 ask 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. Many practitioners may require a recommendation or
approval from your doctor.
