Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
Will I be covered during the session?
What parts of my body will be massaged?
What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
Are there different kinds of massage and bodywork?
What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?
How will I feel after the massage or bodywork session?
What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?
Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable?

Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
Your massage or bodywork session will take place in your setting.   We may be using a massage chair set up or the table. Ideally we will be in a  quiet place.  

Must I be completely undressed?
Most of the time, it is perfectly ok to leave your clothes on.  I have adapted to go over and around clothing and we will talk about this as we go along if additional accommodations need to be made.  Sometime, clients will wear bathing suit type attire for access to key areas.  

Will I be covered during the session?
You will be clothed.  

What parts of my body will be massaged?
A typical session could include work on any of the following: your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, torso, stomach, and shoulders. Each person has preferences and those will be discussed at the intake to ensure that you are comfortable. 

What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
Typically client's have an area that is more in need of attention and this is the focus of the session.  Other areas may not be attended to, as this model is not typically a full body massage.  Assessment is necessary and we will talk about what you are experiencing and make adjustments so that you are comfortable.  Some restrictions are painful and pain gives us information that can lead us in the direction of the origin of your situation.  Often the area you come in reporting as an issue is where you are feeling it and upon probing, we find the local area also is experiencing painful sensations and leads us inthe direction of resolution.  My approach is more interactive than typical swedish massage and we work together, not necessarily passive.  

Chair massage starts at 10 minutes per person.   

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. Since toxins are released from your soft tissues during a massage, it is recommended you drink plenty of water following your massage.

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 we will have a conversation about your medical situation at each session.  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.