Benefits & FAQ
Benefits
Why massage?
Stress is a factor in five out of the six leading causes of death: heart disease, cancer, stroke, lower respiratory disease, and accidents.
An estimated 75-90% of all doctor visits are for stress-related issues. And perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress. Massage is an effective tool for managing this stress, which translates into:
Decreased anxiety
Enhanced sleep quality
Greater energy
Improved concentration
Increased circulation
Reduced fatigue
Massage can also help specifically address a number of health issues. Bodywork can:
Alleviate low-back pain and improve range of motion
Assist with shorter, easier labor for expectant mothers and shorten maternity hospital
staysEase medication dependence
Enhance immunity by stimulating lymph flow — the body’s natural defense system
Exercise and stretch weak, tight, or atrophied muscles
Help athletes of any level prepare for, and recover from, strenuous workouts
Improve the condition of the body’s largest organ—the skin
Increase joint flexibility
Lessen depression and anxiety
Promote tissue regeneration, reducing scar tissue and stretch marks
Pump oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs, improving circulation.
Reduce post-surgery adhesions and swelling
Reduce spasms and cramping
Relax and soften injured, tired, and overused muscles
Release endorphins—amino acids that work as the body’s natural painkiller
Relieve migraine pain
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FAQ
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 tuck yourself under and sheet and blanket, on a heated table especially designed for your comfort.
Must I be completely undressed?
No. I encourage clients to wear light weight clothing. For men, I suggest shorts or briefs. Women often wear light weight pants or briefs on their lower body. For the upper body, I recommend a sports bra, tank top or a lightweight t-shirt. I often work on the chest or abdomen and this type of dress allows us to comfortably address your tension. Many people are used to receiving massage with no clothes. If we transition to more of a Swedish massage, by all means, be comfortable on the table and undress you your level of comfort
Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
No. The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, and tuck yourself into the sheets of the heated table.
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?
This depends on your intensions for the session and what your body needs. Often for a complaint in one part of the body, we may additionally work in multiple areas seemingly non-related. Most sessions involve the head, neck, back, abdomen, chest, hips and legs to varying degrees.
What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
The intension always is that you will feel supported, listened to and relaxed. As tension areas are released, I often point this out so you can feel the before and after changes, both in the tissue and how you are now moving. Bodywork is always an adventure in which we learn a little bit more about our bodies
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. During a session, I typically offer a variety of treatment types and we can identify these as we go.
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, be curious and enjoy the session. The practitioner will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm). Face down, face up and side-lying are common positions during a session. 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 feel so relaxed that returning to work is challenging. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling relaxed, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days, months and years.
What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?
Massage and bodywork can help release chronic muscular tension and pain, improve circulation, decrease swelling, 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. I will email you a health intake form so that you can relate what is pertinent to your condition and health, medications included. 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.
