
Frequently Asked Questions
Massage
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 will be played to help you relax. You will lie on a table especially designed for your comfort.
Must I be completely undressed?
Short answer, no! You do not. Whether it is for religious reasons, modesty, whatever! I don't need to know why. It is your choice. While most massage techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed, it is entirely up to you what you want to wear.
It is important that you are 100% comfortable so you can relax and enjoy your session.
You will be properly draped throughout.
Will I be covered during the session?
You will be properly draped at all times in accordance to PA state law and to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be un-draped.
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 and blanket.
What parts of my body will be massaged?
My typical full-body session begins with you laying face down. I start with a scalp massage and move to your upper and low back and then your hips and sides of your glutes. Then I massage the back of your legs. At this point I will have your turn over and I will massage your face (not currently permitted during COVID), scalp, neck and chest. Then your arms, front of your legs and feet.
This order is not set in stone and any body part can be skipped.
What will the massage 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 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.
What should I do during the massage 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 or pressure you are receiving,
please 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 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.
Do you have another question about massage that was not answered here?
Please email me so I can help!