Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I have to be naked for a massage?
Do I have to be naked for a massage?
For the best work any therapist can do, it is in your best interest to be as unclothed as possible. Now, I can't speak for ALL therapists, but with me your privacy will always be priority #1. I like to use dark colored top sheets for your maximum comfort and coverage.
Am I supposed to tip?
As with any service, tips are very much appreciated. For massage therapists, 15-30% is typical.
Is massage safe for everybody?
Unfortunately no. Individuals who have been recently been diagnosed with cancer must have a note from their physician stating they are clear for massage before I will work on them. During a massage, lymphatic fluids as well as the body's electrical energy is stimulated and moved around, which may cause cancer to metastasize.
Other contraindications that I require a doctor's note are the following:
-pregnancy (earlier than 7 months), hearrrt disease, emphysema, blood clots, aneurysms, severe edema, and tumors.
Those on blood thinners, steroids, heart medication, inhalers, oxygen, or even illegal drugs really need to tell me about it. I do not want any harm to come you in accordance of receiving the wrong type of massage. It is also important to bring your meds with you, just in case!
Oh yes, and I will not work on anyone who is drunk or has a hangover...massage can amplify the effects of alcohol very rapidly, and many times will cause vomiting.
Will my information be kept confidential?
Absolutely. What you tell me as your therapist stays confidential. My bookkeeping processes require me to keep relevant information to your physical and possibly emotional conditions, and that too is confidential without a subpoena. Not even my husband is allowed to have access to any client information.
Is my massage going to be sensual or sexual? What if I am late or miss my appointment? In the event that you are late: Depending upon whether there is an appointment scheduled after you will determine if your time will be deducted from your fully-paid session, or if you will be able to have your full session time. I will not make other clients wait for their sessions to begin. Will massage cure my pain? Should I feel sore after a massage? Can I have my spouse or friend be in the room with me? What is Thai Massage? What is Swedish Massage? What is Myotherapy? What is Cranial-Sacral therapy? What is Reflexology? In the feet, there are reflex areas corresponding to all the parts of the body and these areas are arranged in such a way as to form a map of the body in the feet with the right foot corresponding to the right side of the body and the left foot corresponding to the left side of the body. By having the whole body represented in the feet, the method offers a means of treating the whole body and of treating the body as a whole. This latter point is an important factor of a natural therapy and allows not only symptoms to be treated but also the causes of symptoms.
The method has been used for several thousands of years and is known to have been practised in a similar manner by the Chinese and the Egyptians. More recently, Reflexology was described in the form in which it is now known by the late Eunice Ingham, an American lady, who based her method of treatment on work called 'Zone Therapy' which had been described some years earlier in the 1920's by an American, Dr. William Fitzgerald. The main pioneer of Reflexology in Great Britain was the late Doreen Bayly who introduced the method in the early 1960's and whose great determination to stimulate awareness and interest in the method should not be forgotten.
Reflexology does not claim to be a 'cure-all' but numerous different disorders have been successfully treated by this method. These disorders include such things as migraine, sinus problems, hormonal imbalances, breathing disorders, digestive problems, circulatory problems, back problems and tension and stress. Most people who have experienced treatment would agree that the method can be most beneficial and is also a very relaxing therapy." Will being a loyal customer bring great deals my way?
Absolutely not! I am a professional therapist, not a prostitute. Any request for sexual favors will immediately end your time as my client, and if it warrants, may result in a report to the local Police. I do not tolerate any sexual harassment of any kind, physical or verbal. My practice is best suited for those who are looking for a serious, health-oriented, professional massage only.
I will allow one missed appointment per rolling year. For any subsequent occurrence you are obligated to pay me no less than 50% of the fee of the appointment missed or no less than $25, whichever is greater. Until this fee is paid in full, your time as my client will be suspended. I will allow 45 days for this fee to be paid before contacting appropriate claims agencies, upon which I will then add a $25 collections charge.
That is a question that I really can't answer. I consider myself a "touch healer", however I can not promise a cure for anything, because that is beyond the scope of my practice, which is just to help individuals cope with their pain. If you find that regular massage sessions alleviate your pain indefinitely...then let's just say you are blessed.
If it is one of your first massages ever, one of your first massages in a long time, or if your condition required vigorous therapy, and you are sore, please don't fret. It is very common to be sore in any of these circumstances. To reduce the incidence of soreness the days following a massage, drink a lot of water. It is best to avoid any caffeine or alcohol within 24 hours of a massage to allow your body to properly rid itself of toxins and other waste loosened during a massage. If you are thirsty, you are already beyond dehydration...so keep drinking that water. (Filtered water is preferred)
It is in your best interest to be on your own during a massage. If it is really necessary, then okay. Most massage practitioners will tell you that massage goes much more smoothly when there are no outside distractions. Most individuals like to get massages to get away from it all, but you are in need of bringing some of it all with you, that is up to you. I would definitely recommend getting a sitter for the little ones, however.
Take a look here to find out.
Courtesy of Associate Bodywork & Massage Professionals: "One of the most commonly taught and well-known massage techniques, Swedish massage is a vigorous system of treatment designed to energize the body by stimulating circulation. Five basic strokes, all flowing toward the heart, are used to manipulate the soft tissues of the body. The disrobed client is covered by a sheet, with only the area being worked on exposed. Therapists use a combination of kneading, rolling, vibrational, percussive and tapping movements with the application of oil to reduce friction on the skin. The many benefits of Swedish massage may include generalized relaxation, dissolution of scar tissue adhesions, and improved circulation, which may speed healing and reduce swelling from injury."
Take a look here to find out.
Take a look here to find out.
Courtesy of www.britreflex.co.uk:
"Reflexology is a form of 'alternative' or 'complementary' medicine and involves a method of treatment using massage to reflex areas found in the feet and the hands. Most commonly, the feet are used as the areas to be treated.
You bet. I like to get special treatment from places that I often patronize, and I am sure my clients feel the same way. I am still deciding on what kind of programs I will offer. I'll let you know when I have something in place!
