Also be sure to see "My First Visit"
What are the Primary Benefits of Getting a Massage?
What if I am Uncomfortable during my Massage?
What should I do after my Massage?
What are the Primary Benefits of Getting a Massage?
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Enhances general health and well-being
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Relaxes muscles
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Improves joint mobility and range of motion
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Relieves muscle tension and headaches
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Helps posture (due to restriction in muscles, joints and/or connective tissues)
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Improves flexibility
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Relieves stress and anxiety
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Helps secondary pain (such as over-compensation for pain)
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Reduces physical/mental fatigue and increases the level of endorphins
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Improves blood circulation (bringing oxygen & nutrients to every cell of your body stimulates the lymphatic system in order to flush away cellular waste products)
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Supports effective digestion and breathing
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Increases attentiveness and learning
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Promotes restful sleep
What else can a Massage do?
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Help repetitive strain injuries in muscles due to work, hobbies, or other activities
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Help in recovery process for eating disorders (in conjunction with your health program)
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Help uncover unconsciously held tension (finding knots you didn’t even know you had can help you take measures to relieve the tension before it becomes chronic)
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Help “reconnect” mind and body
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Relieves tired, tight or sore muscles, improves flexibility, and hastens recovery time athletes and fitness enthusiasts
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Increases job performance (on-site/corporate massage)
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Diminishes PMS symptoms
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Improves medical treatment healing time
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Helps to lower blood pressure
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Helps to improve weakened muscles
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Reduces stress and blocks pain during labor
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Encourages weight growth in premature babies
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Promotes better sleep and more focus in people with autism and ADHD
Are there Conditions (Contra-Indications) that would Prevent a Massage from being done? And if so, what are they?
Yes, there are three types of
“Contra-Indications”:
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TOTAL: When massage should not be performed at all
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LOCAL: when massage can be performed but not over the affected areas
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MEDICAL: When massage can only be performed once medical permission has been granted
When you have any of these TOTAL Contra-Indication conditions, please do not book a massage:
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Fever
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Contagious or infectious diseases, including any cold or flu no matter how mild it may seem
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Neuritis
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Skin diseases
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Under the influence of drug or alcohol—including prescription pain medication
These LOCAL Contra-Indications will allow me to do a massage but not over the areas affected by:
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Varicose veins
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Undiagnosed lumps or bumps
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Bruising
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Cuts or abrasions
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Sunburn
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Undiagnosed pain
If you suffer from any of the following MEDICAL Contra-Indication conditions, massage can only be performed after it has been approved in writing by your physician:
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Cardio-vascular ailments (thrombosis, phlebitis, hypertension, heart conditions)
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Oedema
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Psoriasis or eczema
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High blood pressure
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Osteoporosis
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Cancer
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Neurosis or psychotic conditions
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Heart problems, angina (wearers of pacemakers)
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Epilepsy
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Diabetes
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Bell’s Palsy, trapped or pinched nerves
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Gynecological infections
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Recent operations or acute injuries
Because it is non-invasive, relaxing and natural, massage is considered safe treatment for most people. The restrictions previously stated are in place to protect your health and well-being. I hope you understand and consider them as seriously as I do.
What Should I Wear?
Whatever makes you feel most comfortable. Massage is traditionally done in the nude and I am trained in draping techniques using towels and sheets to cover all areas of modesty. However, if you are more comfortable wearing some clothing, feel free to wear whatever you like. I will work within your comfort level.
Does Massage Hurt?
Massage treatment should never hurt, but you should realize there’s a difference between discomfort and pain. Some tolerable discomfort may occur depending on the type of therapy you and your therapist have arranged. Keep in mind that discomfort will not necessarily make you resist the pressure, and that’s a good thing!
You should always alert me if I have passed your threshold for pain though, because pain will cause you to tighten up and resist the pressure which I apply and is so beneficial. This will not lead to the results you desire.
What should I do during my Massage to Make the Best of the Experience?
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Breathe deep and regular. Do not hold your breath.
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Consciously go through every body part from head to toe and relax it. Sink all your weight into the table. Your body should be limp with me left to lift the weight. (Do not assist.)
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Allow yourself to release emotions. Do not feel embarrassed to laugh or cry.
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If you wish to talk about the emotions you are feeling, do so knowing that conversations remain completely confidential. But remember I am instructed not to give feedback but to merely listen.
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Always give feedback, letting me know if the pressure is too little or too much. Let me know if you are too hot or cold as well.
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Be sure to let me know if something I am doing is working especially well for you or conversely if something is making you uncomfortable.
What if I am Uncomfortable during my Massage?
Don’t hesitate to say something. Everything is adjustable. I will never be offended if you make a request to turn the heat up or down, add a blanket, or adjust the table, pressure or even the music during your session.
What should I do after my Massage?
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Once the session has ended, I will allow you to slowly bring yourself back from the relaxed state you are in, and dress. It might even be necessary to wake you by letting you know the session has ended.
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Give feedback so that some alterations can be made to your next treatment for an even more relaxing experience.
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If possible, try to schedule some relaxation time after your massage. It is also beneficial to drink at least two 8 ounce glasses of water and refrain from drinking alcohol in the hour following your massage.
What if I need to Cancel?
To avoid being charged for the full amount of your session, please let us know 24 hours in advance if you will be unable to make your scheduled appointment, and so that we might reschedule it as quickly and conveniently as possible for you.
A series of regular massages can be helpful for problem stress or chronic pain. There can be a cumulative effect of building and maintaining better overall health—ultimately helping you to feel better and enjoy life more fully.
And then there are those who simply view massage therapy as a well-deserved treat for themselves!