Where will my session take place? 
Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a comfortable room with soft music played to help you relax. You will lie on a table especially designed for your comfort.

Must I be completely undressed?
We practice draping where only the body part being worked on is uncovered, the rest of the body will be covered at all times. For best results, it is recommended that you uncover the area receiving massage therapy; however, it is entirely up to you. You should undress to your level of comfort. You will be properly draped during the entire session.

Will the therapist be present when I disrobe?
The therapist will leave the room before the session starts while you undress, relax onto the table. Similarly, the therapist will leave the room after the session ends for you to get dressed and ready.

What parts of my body will be massaged? 
It depends on the session treatment plan and duration. A typical full-body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, hands, head, neck, and shoulders. 

What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
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 lubricant (oil or cream) is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. The lubricant 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 on the day of the session?
One day before and up to two hours before the session, you should inform the therapist of any recent medical condition (infection, fever, injuries, etc.). This information helps the therapist determine whether or not the session needs to be rescheduled. Good personal hygiene is important before your session similar to a dentist or a physician visit. Please remember not to consume alcohol or take drugs that would decrease sensation or detection of pain. For your own safety, the therapist may elect not to proceed with or stop the session if such conditions are detected.

Prior to the massage, feel free to ask the therapist any questions about the technique or the upcoming session. During the massage, make yourself comfortable. The therapist 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 to answer health-related questions before the session. It is very important that you inform the therapist of any health problems or medications you are taking. If you are under a doctor's care, it is strongly advisable to get a written doctor recommendation for massage prior to any session. Depending on the condition, approval from your doctor may be required.