Frequently Asked Questions

There's no set protocol, but here are some helpful preparation tips:

• Take a warm shower or bath - This is relaxing and good preparation
• Wear comfortable clothing - Quick and easy to get in and out of
• Avoid pain medications - Don't take any for 4-6 hours before massage
• Wait on alcohol - Consider waiting until after your massage
• Don't eat heavily - Avoid eating 1-2 hours before for comfort
• Use the restroom - Be comfortable throughout your treatment

For a full body massage, most people undress completely, though you may choose to wear underwear. You will have complete privacy to undress, and you will be covered with a sheet and blanket at all times except the area being worked on.

In a word: Relax. Your therapist will guide you through the treatment with verbal and non-verbal cues.

• Many people close their eyes and relax completely
• Some even fall asleep - that's perfectly fine!
• You don't need to talk unless you want to
• Feel free to ask questions or provide feedback at any time

Your therapist is comfortable with your complete and quiet relaxation. It's entirely up to you.

Most full body massages include (not necessarily in this order):

Massage therapy sessions can range from 10 minutes to 90 minutes:

• 10-30 minutes: Partial massage (neck/shoulders, back, or legs/feet)
• 60 minutes: Average full-body massage
• 90 minutes: Extended session for optimal relaxation

Absolutely! However, the more quiet and relaxed you are, the better. Many people start off talking and gradually enter quiet states of relaxation as the massage progresses.

You should always speak up if:

• The therapist is doing anything to make you uncomfortable
• You get too warm or too cold
• The room is too bright
• The pressure needs to be changed (lighter or deeper)
• Something is not working for you

Some people even sleep during therapy - it's the greatest power nap ever!

Massage feels great! Your session may start with broad, flowing strokes that help calm your nervous system and relax exterior muscle tension.

As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax specific areas and relieve muscular tension. Specific trigger points ("knots") will be worked with deeper pressure.

Often, a light oil or lotion is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin.

It shouldn't, but this depends on the type of massage. There's a difference between:

A good massage should always stay in the "good" hurt range. Deep massage may cause soreness similar to a great workout, but many people report that deeper, older pain has subsided.

It varies from person to person and depends on your goals:

• Occasional relaxation: Every 3-6 weeks may be fine
• Addressing specific conditions: More frequent sessions initially, then taper to maintenance
• Maintenance schedule: Discussed with your therapist based on your specific needs

Frequency should be discussed with your massage therapist after your treatment when they have a better hands-on understanding of your particular muscular issues.

Scientific study has proven many healing aspects of massage. Just a few benefits include: