Just to get things rolling, here are some FAQs about massage which are also found on my website.
If you haven't received a professional massage before, it's understandable that you may be nervous or have questions about it. No problem. Read on:
Who should get a massage?
Everyone! :) Seriously, there are some medical conditions that contraindicate massage (especially deep or vigorous techniques), but most clients will find that massage therapy is a great way to enhance your well-being and improve your health in a natural, holistic manner. The Chinese, Japanese, and people of India, for example, have been using massage for thousands of years.
What will the therapist need to know about my medical history?
To ensure that your treatment is not only beneficial to you but also safe for your medical conditions, I will give you a form to fill out and sign. Any allergies, acute or chronic conditions, serious illnesses, and injuries need to be reported on the form. In some medical cases, it may be in your best interest to get your doctor's approval before proceeding with a massage, or defer treatment to a later time. With pregnancy, I generally recommend waiting until the second trimester.
What areas of the body will the therapist work on?
Normally, the massage will include your scalp, face (if desired), neck, shoulders, arms, legs, feet, and back. If you just want your upper body worked on (for example), or if you want something excluded (e.g., your feet), please let me know at the beginning of the session.
If you have an isolated area that should not be worked on (e.g., a broken toe, a recent blister), please mention it.
Do I need to take all my clothing off?
This is up to you. Since this is an ethical, professional massage, you will be draped as required by the law (covered with the sheet and/or blanket). During the massage, I will uncover your arms, legs, and back as each area is worked on. Your modesty will be respected at all times. Some people take everything off for their own comfort, and some people leave their underwear on; whichever you are comfortable with.
I strongly suggest that you remove your jewelry before your massage, especially necklaces, watches, and large earrings. If needed, I can work around jewelry, but this may reduce the effectiveness of your treatment.
How will I feel after the massage treatment?
Depending on the type of massage (deep tissue, hot stones, aromatherapy, etc.), you might feel relaxed, sleepy, invigorated, or temporarily sore! With
LomiLomi, some clients have experienced unusual dreams after receiving the work; with focused deep tissue work, many feel that their range of motion is much improved; after a relaxing Swedish massage, you may discover a new perspective that gives you insight into a problem you've been working on. At any rate, massage is an excellent way to improve your health and wellness!
Will I be sore from the pressure?
Let me know at any time during your massage session if you want more, or less, pressure to a given area of your body. Deep tissue therapy sometimes causes a client to feel sore after the session, or you may feel delayed-onset soreness 24 to 48 hours afterward. It is suggested that, if your body is not used to receiving bodywork, deeper pressure may not be most beneficial for you at your first session. Massage may aggravate some conditions of the body, which is one reason why you need to disclose your medical history with the first appointment.
I suggest that you increase your water intake, especially the first 24 hours after your massage. It is said that this will help to flush toxins from your body. In addition, if you do feel some soreness, try soaking in a bath with Epsom salts; use an ice pack (a bag of frozen peas works great); or dampen a towel, warm it in the microwave, and apply to the sore areas for a few minutes. Many clients have found that alternating ice and moist heat is beneficial to them.
Do you have questions about your massage appointment that are not covered here? Let me know in the comments!
