Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What are the health benefits of Massage?
   Of course anyone can benefit from massage therapy. Whether it is an occasional or regular treatment it helps you feel younger and more flexible. Massage therapy is a very soothing, relaxing method of relieving aches, pains and stiffness due to a particular health problem or from chronic stress. Stroking, kneading and applying pressure to the muscles and other soft tissues releases waste and toxins, increasing blood and lymphatic circulation improving the immune system. Massage helps increase body motion and promotes muscle relaxation. Massage provides emotional benefits by reminding the body of what relaxed feels like decreasing anxiety, tension, fatigue and creating a sense of well being.
2. How does Massage reduce pain?
   The pain cycle starts when injury, chronic poor posture or emotional stress causes pain. The body compensates causing muscles and other soft tissues to adapt. Over time which can be years this compensation creates more pain . Massage helps break the pain cycle by physically stretching and relaxing spasm (muscles shortened from injury or long term inactivity) and trigger points (the swollen, tender areas that may refer pain to other parts of the body). Kneading relieves soft tissue inflammation caused either by traumatic injury or chronic pain. When inflammation and swelling are reduced, pain subsides and motion returns. Repetitive strain injuries (i.e. carpal tunnel syndrome) are prevented and sports injuries improved when muscular tension is relieved and postural balance is restored.
3. How does Massage reduce Stress?
   The mind and body work together. Mental anxiety causes muscular tension. Therapeutic Massage relaxes the body causing the release of endorphins; the "feel good" chemical released when you exercise or laugh. Endorphins tell your muscles to relax leaving your body more energized and better able to handle life's challenges.
4. What can I expect my first time?
   Plan a few minutes extra for a first time session so you can fill out a health history form, together we will review this information and clarify what massage techniques are best for you. You will be given a chance to ask any questions you might have about any aspect of the massage session. Your table is prepared with fresh sheets in a warm, comfortable room with soft lighting and music. Your invited to talk or not to talk it's your time to enjoy however you choose. I will occasionally need to ask for feedback or assistance. (in rolling over, for example) I use jojoba oil to reduce friction. Please let me know if you have any skin sensitivities to oils. I also use essential oils for massage when requested. Don't worry about your body type or appearance I have worked with many body types and want this to be a positive experience for you. Your only job is to relax. Sometimes that's easier said than done. It is not unusual for emotions to surface during a massage, that's perfectly OK. Please know that whatever is shared during your session is strictly confidential. After the massage you will be given private time to dress and I will meet you in the reception area to discuss your session and answer any questions.
5. Do I have to take all my clothes off?
   NO! This is your session and you only need to undress as much as you are comfortable. This means you can stay fully dressed, completely undress or anything in between. All sessions include private undressing and dressing time. I will knock before entering the room. You are provided with a flannel sheet to cover with and I do have blankets for additional coverage and warmth. During the massage only the part of your body I am currently working on will be uncovered. Those areas considered private are not uncovered or touched. If you choose to keep some undergarments on it will restrict access to muscle groups you are always in control of your session and at anytime during the session you can ask questions or stop it should you feel uncomfortable.
6. Will oil get in my hair?
   Although I do my best to keep your hair oil free it can happen so be sure to alert me to your concern.
7. Does massage hurt?
   Never expect massage to be painful but do consider the reasons you're getting a massage. Is it for injury, chronic poor posture or emotional stress? Massage can be uncomfortable for a short period if you have a tender spot. During the session you will be asked for feedback about the amount of pressure being used. Please do not wait to be asked if you are uncomfortable with any aspect of the session. You have the right to stop the session at any time. If you feel soreness the next day just be sure to drink more water.
8. Can I have a glass of wine or beer prior to a massage to help me relax?
   No. Massage increases your rate of blood flow up to three times that of normal, resting rate. Should you consume alcohol prior to your massage, it will overwork your liver and kidneys, and may lead to you losing consciousness or feeling sick.
9. Are there conditions and physical problems I could have that would prevent me from being a candidate for massage?
   Not many but if you have a concern check with your doctor first. There are other methods of healing touch that can be used even in sever cases that do not necessitate the need to apply any pressure to the body such as Cranial Sacral Therapy and Polarity.
10. Can I bring someone with me to the session?
    You have the right to have anyone you wish this is your session.
11. Does insurance cover massage therapy?
    This is a question for your insurance company. You will be responsible for paying me and then I will provide a receipt to turn into the insurance company.
12. What might I experience after a Massage?

• More restful night sleep
• Less tension
• Fewer aches and pains
• Feeling more rested and relaxed
• Greater flexibility
• Increased creativity
• More energy
• Improved attitude
• Improved productivity and focus
• Improved digestion
• Assimilation and elimination
• Improved circulation
• Stronger, healthier immune response

13. What do I do after my massage?
    Be gentle with your self and relax if your schedule allows. Take a nice long shower or soak in a warm bath before going to bed. Be sure to drink plenty of water, massage loosens toxins through out the body, dumping them into the circulation system. Water is the best way to get those toxins flushed out so they don't get a chance to settle in joints. Water maintains system equilibrium, lubricates tissues, flushes wastes and toxins, hydrates the skin, regulates body temperature, acts as a shock absorber for joints, bones and muscles, adds needed minerals and transports nutrients, minerals, vitamins, protein and sugar for assimilation. So drink your water!
14. How can Massage help you?

• Loosens tight muscles
• Stretches connective tissues
• Speeds recovery from injury or illness
• Reduces swelling
• Increases blood and lymph circulation
• Reduces chronic pain
• Reduces scarring
• Physically relaxes the body
• Deepens respiration
• Lowers blood pressure
• Strengthens immune system

15. Who should get massage?
    Everyone benefits from massage therapy from babies to seniors. The body responds to the healing benefits of touch in a profound way. Just as you practice other preventative methods of health adding massage can raise the quality of your life so you can enjoy each day without pain and sickness.
16. How often should I get a Massage?
    A maintenance massage is once a month if you are dealing with a current health problem or a very stressful time once a week should be considered. Some conditions benefit from more frequent treatments for a short time then go to once a week or month.
17. What is the difference between massage therapy and chiropractic?
    Chiropractic is manipulation of the joints and vertebrae. Massage therapy addresses the soft tissues meaning muscles, fascia, tendons and ligaments. They are totally different forms of health care but do work well together and compliment each other.
18. What is your cancellation policy?
    We ask that you notify us at least 24 hours prior to your session if you must cancel, this way we can reschedule your space. This will avoid any extra charges.
19. What is On site massage?
    Many companies are now offering on site chair massage for their employees. This is done using a specially designed massage chair and concentrates mostly on the clients back, neck and shoulders.
    
    It is done fully clothed. Job stress costs American businesses an estimated $200 billion annually as a result of absenteeism, lost productivity and insurance claims. Over time tension and stress develop headaches, neck and shoulder tightness, back ache, repetitive motion pain and accumulated tension can lead to other sickness. Massage is a great way to reduce stress in the work place. Employees enjoy 15 minutes of concentrated massage.
    
    Studies by the University of Miami Medical School's Touch Research Institute found that a 15 minute chair massage twice a week reduced workers' anxiety and depression, lowered job stress scores and dramatically increased speed and accuracy on math computations. At the end of the five week study period, subjects reported reduced job stress and elevated moods. This was in addition to the usual benefits of massage, relief of muscular tension, revitalized energy and a stronger immune system.
    
    If you're a business owner or an employee consider Chair massage as great low cost, high profile employee benefit.

Back to Top ^