What is Therapeutic Massage?
Massage stimulates circulation, and circulation naturally flushes wastes and toxins from muscle tissue while carrying nutrients necessary for health and restoration. Therapeutic Massage is the systematic manual manipulation of the soft tissues of the body for the purpose of promoting circulation of the blood and lymph, relaxing muscles, pain relief, and support of metabolic balance. Any one particular technique, or a combination of several techniques can be used.
What are the benefits of massage?
Massage increases circulation and effects many systems within the body and self.
Some benefits include:
Deep Relaxation
Stress Reduction
Relief of Muscle Tension
Increased Ease of Movement
Strengthened Immune System
Relief of Joint Aches & Pains
Assists Lymphatic & Venous Flow
Helps Break-up Scar Tissue
Assists Digestion
Improved Tone and Texture of Skin
Increased Healing Ability
Promotes Better Posture and Self Esteem
Helps Create Sound Sleep Patterns
Causes Release of Natural Endorphins
Increased Self Awareness
Mental Alertness
Calm Anxiety
Empowers Self-image
Just to name a few!
Who can benefit from receiving massage/bodywork?
Everyone.
What happens at my appointment?
At the beginning of your session I have you fill out an initial intake form that covers your general health and contact information. We review of the intake form and answer any questions or concerns that arise. Next I introduce you to the treatment room. I leave to wash my hands, giving you privacy to undress to your level of comfort and get comfortable on the massage table underneath the top sheet and blanket. I knock on the door and inquire if you are ready for me to enter the room and then commence the scheduled treatment. When the treatment is finished I touch you on the shoulder and say ‘"Thank You", then leave the room. At this point you may take a few minutes for yourself and then get ready to go. After you exit the treatment room, I greet you with water and we take care of debriefing, payment and rescheduling.
Do I have to take my clothes off?
No. You undress to your level of comfort. However, may techniques are most effective when performed directly to the body. Some people keep their underwear on or wear a swim suit. Most women remove their bras. I have even had clients remain fully dressed for their first few sessions! I will work around whatever comfort boundaries you have. I leave the room while you undress and get comfortable on the table. You are covered by a sheet and light blanket throughout your session and I only uncover the areas that I am working on during the massage. Contrary to what you might initially think, the experience is actually quite modest.
Do you accept credit cards?
Yes, but only through PayPal.
Do you accept insurance as payment?
No. However, if your insurance does cover massage, I will gladly provide you with the paperwork necessary for reimbursement from your insurance carrier.
Does massage hurt?
In the course of a massage, I will probably find areas of tenderness and pain. There is a difference between hurts so good and just hurts. I depend on you to keep me informed. If you are holding your breath, knitting your brows, or tensing your body to endure the experience~ please ask me to decrease the pressure, try a different technique, or to move to another area.
Is it OK to receive massage while pregnant?
Yes, before, during and after! Massage can be effective by relieving tension during pregnancy and helping your body prepare for labor. regular massage can assist in reducing the amount of time it takes to recover after labor, especially with postpartum depression. There are certain techniques that are avoided during different stages of pregnancy.
Benefits of prenatal massage can include:
Emotional support through nurturing touch
Relaxation
Decreased insomnia
Stress relief on weight-bearing joints
Neck and back pain relief caused by muscle imbalance due to your changing body
Assistance in maintaining good posture
Reduced swelling in hand and feet
Lessened sciatic pain
Decrease in leg cramps
Is massage always appropriate?
No. Massage is non-invasive, relaxing, and natural therefore is generally considered a safe treatment for most people. However, there are several medical conditions that would make massage inappropriate, that is why it is necessary to complete a health history form before your massage begins. It is very important that you inform me of any health issues or medications you are using. If you are under a doctor's care, it is strongly advised that you receive a written recommendation for massage prior to any session.
Do not book as massage if you are experiencing the following:
Fever
Contagious or infectious diseases, including any cold or flu do matter how mild it may seem
Under the influence of drugs or alcohol, including prescription pain medication
Recent operations or acute injuries
Neuritis
Skin diseases or infections of any kind.
Schedule an appointment, but I must be informed of any of these conditions:
Varicose veins
Undiagnosed lumps or bumps
Bruising
Cuts
Abrasions
Sunburns
Inflammation, including arthritis.
Do you work with clients with cancer?
Yes. However, I do want your doctor's approval and for you to be fully aware of the precautions. One concern involves the idea that there is a risk of spreading cancer cells because massage increases circulation. Others might argue that the nurturing touch, emotional support, and relaxation benefits outweigh the potential risk. My concern is the care of client and the client's wishes. Some people find massage calming between chemotherapy sessions. It is important that all parties involved in treatment and care are informed of the benefits and risks of massage while diagnosed with cancer.
Why do people say to drink plenty of water after receiving a massage?
When you receive a massage, the kneading motion releases many toxins from your muscles into the body. By drinking water, you help the body flush to toxins. If you don't drink enough water, you may feel increased soreness, a mild headache or even nausea post-massage.
How often should I receive a massage?
Weekly is optimum, but regularity is the key. Each massage improves upon the last. You learn more about what to expect from me and I become more sensitive to your needs and wants from a massage. Regular massage gives you the opportunity to practice the skill of relaxation. You get better at relaxing every time you do it! Ideally, massage becomes a regular part of your self-care regiment so that you continually gain from the many benefits of massage over time. Listen to your body; there is no prescriptive rule.
