FAQ

Important Note

This is YOUR massage session, and it is what you make of it.

Please, please, please don’t hesitate to speak up during any session. If you want anything changed (pressure, areas worked, position or if you are too hot or too cold) your therapist is happy to do anything they can to keep you comfortable, but unfortunately is not not a mind-reader.

You will not hurt the therapist’s feelings by asking for something that will make you more comfortable. Your therapist wants this to be the best experience for you to relax and enjoy.

Also, what you need or want in one session may be different in another. If you had a full body massage last time, but this time you only want your back/neck/shoulders/arms worked, it’s perfectly fine to ask. You will get so much more out of your sessions if you let me know what will make you feel best while you’re here!

Answers to common questions about massage

What should I expect during my first massage therapy visit? - If you aren’t able to fill out a health history form ahead of time, please arrive ten minutes early for your first appointment to fill one out.  Afterward I will  familiarize myself with your health history and begin by asking you some general questions to establish what areas you would like worked on, if there … Continue reading "What should I expect during my first massage therapy visit?"
When should I get a massage? - Any time is a great time to get a massage! You don’t need to wait until you’re stressed or injured. Massage works wonders as preventive care by reducing stress, promoting embodiment and awareness, and improving mobility and muscle tone. Instead of waiting until your back hurts from overwork or stress, or the headaches that start … Continue reading "When should I get a massage?"
When should I not get a massage? - There are some instances where receiving massage could do more harm than good, to you or to me as your therapist, and some cases where massage is safe with adaptations.  If you have any of the following conditions, you should not get a massage (and if you develop any prior to your appointment, let me … Continue reading "When should I not get a massage?"
What should I expect after my massage? - When the massage is over, I will leave the room so that you can get dressed in privacy. If you have fallen asleep, I will wake you gently. Massage and bodywork can be extremely relaxing, affecting all your body’s systems so be sure to give yourself a moment to re-orient yourself and pandiculate (think a … Continue reading "What should I expect after my massage?"
Can I choose what music I listen to during my massage? - Certainly!  I have a number of pre-set playlists if you’d prefer, or you can choose to have different music or no music at all. Studies have shown that music at under 60 beats-per-minute has a calming, relaxing effect on the body and therefore can enhance your experience. However, while this may be true, any music … Continue reading "Can I choose what music I listen to during my massage?"
What if I am self-conscious about my body? - This is a body-positive and gender-affirming practice.  As a massage therapist I come from a place of compassion and acceptance.  I’ve seen and worked with hundreds of clients with diverse body types and experiences and I’m not here to judge yours. My goal to help you be more comfortable and connected in your body.  
Can I talk during my session? - Sure, if you’d like to talk go right ahead. The important thing to remember is that this treatment is all about what works for you on a particular day.  Depending on what we’re working with on a particular day, we may have more of a verbal dialogue about what’s going on in your body.  Some … Continue reading "Can I talk during my session?"