FAQ
What should I expect during my first visit?
Prior to their first appointment we do ask our clients to fill out a standard form with information on their medical history and/or any existing health conditions. This is used by the therapist as a basis for the development of an individual approach to tailor all massage therapies according to individual needs and preferences. Your massage therapist will assess your overall physical wellness to determine which massage techniques are appropriate.
Please know that we need you to be honest and factual about all health concerns and medications to make sure the massage therapy we recommend is suitable for your condition. It is also important to list any allergies as we use a variety of massage lotions and essential oils with natural ingredients.
Do I have to be completely undressed?
You can undress to the level of comfort of your own choosing. Many clients strip down to their underwear for a full body massage while some prefer to be fully undressed. We are happy to accommodate you as you feel most comfortable and the therapist will work around your clothes to the best of his/her abilities.
We encourage you to find your comfort zone as feeling nervous and body-conscious throughout the massage will not allow you to get the optimal benefit from the session. You will be given privacy to undress before the beginning of the massage as well as a soft towel to cover your private area.
Do I have to cover myself with a sheet or towel?
Most therapists work with draping as it provides a necessary barrier between themselves and the client. As they make their way down the body, they will uncover the part they need to work on.
Draping is the best way to cover your modesty as it ensures your private parts (for men and women) as well as breasts (for women) will stay covered at all times. When working on a woman's abdomen, a second towel or will be provided to cover the breasts so the main one can be slightly moved to expose the abdomen.
Will the massage hurt?
This depends on a variety of factors, such as type of massage and intensity of strokes. A light, relaxing massage that is mostly superficial will not hurt, whereas a deep tissue massage may produce a slight feeling of discomfort.
Pain is usually an indication that a muscle is possibly injured or inflamed and requires for pressure to be adjusted. Our therapists are extremely skilled and knowledgeable of the human body, so they will do what they can to provide clients with a soothing, relaxing massage experience. The most effective and deepest therapies work with your body's natural response, rather than trigger pain signals. How often should I get a massage? There is no right or wrong answer here as it varies from person to person. Some people just need an occasional relaxation and escape from the hectic modern life, which makes a session every 3-6 weeks ideal.
Others, however, may be struggling with chronic or acute pains - result of sitting crouched over a desk and staring into a monitor for hours on end. In this case, neck stiffness, crippling shoulder pains and frequent headaches are probably loyal companions and until significant lifestyle changes are made - this is bound to remain the same. Unfortunately, this is easier said than done and while you cannot always change professions at will, you can certainly get regular massage sessions that will improve your condition immensely.
Discuss frequency of sessions with your massage therapist immediately after your treatment when he/she has gained a deeper understanding of your particular muscular issues and can make recommendations. If I want a really deep massage shouldn't I see a male therapist? Not necessarily. Both our female and male therapists are experienced and skilled in all traditional and holistic massage therapies and able to deliver a variety of therapeutic techniques to suit your needs.
Having said that, every massage specialist has his/her style of work and preference, so it might be a good idea to inquire prior to making an appointment and state what your expectations are - lighter/deeper pressure, etc. We'd be happy to accommodate any request! What type of music is played during the session? Most therapists play a soothing blend of "new age" music that aids relaxation. Having said that, you can choose a different style or not have any music at all if that makes you feel more comfortable. This experience is all about you and your well-being, so we do our best to create an atmosphere of peace and calm for you to truly relax and make the most of your massage session.
What should I expect after my massage treatment?
Most people feel instantly relaxed and re-energised. Some experience a significant improvement of long-term pains and aches. Others witness an increase in flexibility and range of motion. Most claim there is a feeling of heightened awareness, mental alertness and increased productivity for fays after the therapy.
It is normal after a deep massage to feel slightly sore on the following day similar to after an intense workout. A hot shower or a tub can help ease those feelings. You are advised to hydrate after your massage to stay healthy and stimulate detoxification.
How many sessions will I need?
There is no universal answer to this question as each person has a unique physique, health conditions and needs. After assessing your physical state, learning your medical history and carrying out the first massage session - your therapist will be able to give you a more thorough analysis of your current state, target goals and estimate on recommended session count.
Are there instances when I shouldn’t get a massage?
While the majority of people can benefit from a massage in one way or another, there are few instances when it would be best to avoid it. These include viral infections, such as the flu, a fever or a cold as well as any post-operative period as directed by your surgeon and/or physician. People with eczema or contagious skin infections and lesions are also advised to avoid getting massaged as the lotions and excessive rubbing may cause the skin to tear.
Most health conditions simply require for minor adjustments to the massage technique. Upon sharing your medical history with your therapist he/she will know how to work on you to avoid causing any harm and alleviate some (if not all) of your aches and pains. Talk to your therapist and they can advise you about your specific needs.
Are all rooms private?
Yes. In order to ensure complete relaxation and peace for all our clients, we provide individual studios for every massage session. This way you can make the most of your session without any distractions and your therapists can really focus on your needs and preferences.
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 may be played to help you relax. You will lie on a table especially designed for your comfort.
Must I be completely undressed?
Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, it is entirely up to you what you want to wear. You should undress to your level of comfort. You will be properly draped during the entire session.
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 or towel.
Will I be covered during the session?
You will be properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed.
What parts of my body will be massaged?
A typical full-body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders.
What will the massage or bodywork 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.
Are there different kinds of massage and bodywork?
There are numerous types of massage and bodywork; various techniques utilize different strokes, including basic rubbing strokes, rocking movement, posture and movement re-education, application of pressure to specific points, and more. We can discuss which methods may be most appropriate for you.
What should I do during the massage or bodywork 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 you are receiving, feel free to 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.