Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
Must I be completely undressed?
Will the practitioner be present when i disrobe?
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 Reiki session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room that has been designed exclusively for bodywork. Soothing music will be played to help you relax. The lighting will be soft and, if you have no objections, there will be lit candles. You will lie on a high end, heated massage table especially designed for your comfort.

Must I be completely undressed? 
Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, it is entirely up to you what you want to wear. You should undress to your level of comfort. You will be properly draped with a sheet and blanket during the entire session in a manner that will allow you to feel safe and comfortable. Remember that the purpose of disrobing is to allow me free access to your muscles, tendons, etc. and to apply lotions/oils to aid in your massage experience and effectiveness.

Clients receiving only Reiki work may wear loose, comfortable clothing (warm socks are advised) for the entire session or may disrobe the same as massage clients.

Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
I will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet and blanket.

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?
A typical full-body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, buttocks, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders. Abdominal work is also available when indicated. 

What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
A relaxing Swedish massage is often a baseline for clients. In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with rocking and then broad, flowing strokes that will 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. Often, a light oil or lotion is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. The lotion or oil also helps hydrate your skin. You should communicate immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken. Massage and bodywork are most effective when your body is not resisting. Although many people desire to "help" by moving portions of their body (lifting a leg for example), it is not in your best interest to do so. When you move your own muscles they are contracting which inhibits my ability to stretch and relax them. Take your session time off from being a "helper" - this is your time to relax!

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. I specialize in Swedish, Deep Tissue, Neuromuscular/Trigger Point, Reiki, Aromatherapy, Raindrop Technique and Hot Stone treatments. 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 me any questions about the technique or the upcoming session. During the massage, make yourself comfortable and relax. I 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 or increased range of motion. 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. Please refer to the "Benefits of Massage & Armoatherapy" tab for more detailed benefits.

Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable?
Yes. That's why before you begin your session, I will ask you general health questions and have you complete a medical history form. It is very important that you inform me 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.