F.A.Qs

Frequently Asked Questions 

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AT THE BEGINNING OF MY SESSION?

Your massage therapist will require you to fill out an intake form, afterwards, the therapist will ask you general questions to establish what areas you would like worked on, if there are any conditions needing to be addressed, and to determine if massage is appropriate for you. Your massage therapist may perform certain assessments and testing to evaluate your condition and to see if you have any presenting complaints. It is very important to list all health concerns and medications so the therapist can adapt the session to your specific needs without doing any harm. It is also important to list any allergies so the therapist is aware if he/she needs to use a different oil or lotion during the session.

DO I HAVE TO BE COMPLETELY UNDRESSED?

You should undress to the level you are comfortable. For a full body massage, we prefer for you to undress and keep your underwear. The therapist will work around the clothes you left on as best as he/she can. If removing all your clothes makes you too nervous and unable to relax, then you are not getting the optimal benefit from the session. Your massage therapist will give you privacy to undress and get comfortable on the table.

DO I HAVE TO COVER MYSELF WITH A SHEET OR TOWEL?

This is known as draping and depends on the therapist and in some cases, the law. Draping is required at our facility. Once you are undressed and on the table under the drape, the therapist will only uncover the part of your body being worked on. The genitals (women and men) and breasts (women) will not be uncovered nor will these area be worked (massaged) on. If the therapist is going to work on a woman’s abdomen, a second towel or sheet will be used to cover the breasts so the main sheet or towel can be moved to expose the abdomen.

WHAT DO I DO DURING A MASSAGE THERAPY TREATMENT?

Make yourself comfortable. If your therapist wants you to adjust your position, she or he will either move you or will ask you to move what is needed. Otherwise, change your position anytime to make yourself more comfortable. Many people close their eyes and relax completely during a session; others prefer to talk. It’s up to you. It is your massage and your time, and whatever feels natural to you is the best way to relax. Do not hesitate to ask questions at any time.

I'VE NEVER HAD A MASSAGE HOW WILL A MASSAGE FEEL?

It usually depends on the techniques used. In a general wellness massage, your session may start with broad, flowing strokes (effleurage) 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. Do not hesitate to ask questions or mention if you feel any discomfort so that the massage therapist can use another approach or technique.

WILL THE MASSAGE OILS USED MAKE ME BREAK-OUT?

Most massage therapists use hypoallergenic massage oils or lotions. However, if you have sensitivity to certain types of oils or lotion please bring it to the massage therapist’s attention as most practitioners have an assortment of oils and lotions on hand.

IS “TIPPING” THE THERAPIST EXPECTED?

While any gratuity is always at the discretion of the client, it is customary and welcomed by your massage therapist. The fee you pay for your massage to the therapist or cashier belongs strictly to the business. While tipping is not required, it is most welcome and goes directly to your massage therapist. It does not matter if the therapist is the owner, partner or employee of the massage business. Tipping the person who gave you your massage is a nice gesture if he/she has given you a good massage. If you do decide to give your therapist a tip, the amount to give is entirely up to you. The average tip is 15-20% of the charge for the particular service the therapist performed.

ARE THERE REASONS THAT MASSAGE MIGHT NOT BE RECOMMENDED?

Yes. There are several conditions and situations when massage may not be recommended. Contra-indications may be temporary or permanent and may require physician recommendation or approval. Please make your massage therapist aware if you are under the care of a medical physician or are experiencing any abnormal or chronic conditions.

If you have further questions please don't hesitate to ask !!