Healthful Massage
Massage with a Purpose

Frequently Asked Questions

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 bodywork session will take place in your home or office. Soft music is played to help you relax. You will lie on a table or sit in a chair specially designed for your comfort.

Must I be completely undressed?
Most massage & bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed. However, what you want to wear is entirely up to you. It would be best if you disrobe to your level of comfort. You will be properly draped during the entire session. For Chair massage, you will remain fully clothed.

Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
Your massage therapist will leave the room while you undress, get on the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet.

Will I be covered during the session?
You will always be appropriately draped(covered) 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, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders.

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 broad, flowing strokes to 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 areas of 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 oil also helps hydrate your skin. You should communicate immediately if you feel discomfort so the therapist can adjust or change to another approach. Massage and bodywork are most effective when your body is not resisting.

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, applying pressure to specific points, and more. We can discuss which methods may be most appropriate for you. You can also check out our pages about the different types of massage we offer. 

What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?
Before the massage, ask your massage therapist questions about the technique or the upcoming session. During the massage, make yourself comfortable. Your massage therapist will gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm). Many people 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 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. After the session, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity, which can last for days. You may also feel sleepy. If your massage is provided in your home, you can enjoy a nap after your massage therapist leaves.

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 are 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. It's imperative that, before you begin your session, your massage therapist will ask general health questions. You may also text us any health questions you have before your appointment. It is best to inform our massage therapist 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 before any session. A doctor's approval might be needed depending on your condition.