)%20(3).png)
How would you describe your style of massage?
​
​
​
​
My massage style is based heavily off of Swedish massage: long, broad strokes of light-to-moderate pressure. My techniques are slow, rhythmic, and designed to fully relax the body and mind while reducing any areas of chronic pain or tension. My massages are all customized, meaning in the timeframe allotted, you may elect to receive full-body massage, upper- or lower-body massage only, or massage on an assortment of muscle groups (for example, you may prefer just your calves, neck, back, shoulders, and scalp massaged during your session).
Do you offer Deep Tissue Massage?
No. Due to my own body's limitations, I do not offer Deep Tissue massage. If you are looking for Deep Tissue, please reach out and I'd be happy to refer you to one of my many amazing colleagues who offer this style. As an alternative to Deep Tissue, I do offer cupping therapy for an additional $15.
What is cupping?
Cupping, pictured above, is a therapeutic technique that comes from traditional Chinese medicine and is believed to have numerous health benefits in addition to stimulating the flow of qi ("life force") within the body. Cupping involves applying a localized negative pressure (suction) to the skin using glass, plastic or silicone cups at targeted areas of the body. The intents of this therapy are to stimulate the functions of the circulatory and lymphatic systems, release congested tissues, and loosen adhesions that are deep within the muscle layers.
What is the difference between Deep Tissue and deep pressure?
One of the most common misunderstandings about massage involves the terms "deep tissue" and "deep pressure."
​
At the beginning of a session, most massage therapists ask their clients what type of pressure they prefer: light, medium/moderate, or firm/heavy/deep. Deep pressure is exactly what it sounds like--using more of their bodyweight, the massage therapist applies more force to your muscles.
​
Deep tissue, on the other hand, is best thought of as a technique or style of massage, not a level of force, that is designed to target the inner layers of muscles and connective tissue. Deep tissue techniques stray away from relaxation and are commonly used to treat chronic pain and stiffness. While deep tissue massage does require the use of deep pressure, that's not always the case.
​
To avoid confusing these two terms, I recommend swapping out the word "deep" for "firm" when referring to levels of pressure.
Aside from Deep Tissue, are there any other common styles of massage you do not practice?
Yes. I do not practice prenatal massage. If you are expecting or know someone who is, I'm happy to offer referrals for prenatal massage.
What should I expect during a massage with you?
Our session begins with a 5-10 minute intake where we go over your paperwork and discuss your treatment goals. I will ask you how your body has been feeling, what type of pressure you would like, if there are any areas of your body you'd like me to avoid, and if you would like focused attention on any particular muscle groups. We will select which essential oil(s) you would like (if any), and I will leave the room before you undress and get on the table.
​
While you are getting ready, I am washing my hands in the restroom. I always knock before re-entering the room.
​
Your massage begins with the laying on of my hands on top of the blanket. I do this for two reasons: it gives me a preliminary idea of how your muscles are feeling, and it signals to your body that it's time to slow down and relax. I then prepare your essential oil(s) and will hover my hands underneath the face cradle for you to enjoy the aroma and allow the therapeutic properties of the oil(s) to begin taking effect.
​
During the massage, I only undrape the area that I'm working on, and you will always feel my hands on you so that you know where I am positioned and where I am moving next. I am hyperaware that you cannot see me while in a prone position and probably won't hear me, and I understand that this may cause anxiety in some clients, particularly those who have experienced trauma or are brand new to massage therapy. It is my goal in every single one of my sessions that my clients feel comfortable and safe.
​
When our session is complete, I will let you know and instruct you what to do next. I will place a hot towel on the console for you and step out of the treatment room. While you are resting for a few minutes and then getting dressed, I am washing my hands and forearms again and getting you some water. We will have a few minutes post-massage to go over any concerns or questions you might have, and to discuss recommendations, aftercare, and future appointments.
​
​
What exactly do you mean when you instruct me to "undress to your level of comfort?"
To receive the most therapeutic benefit from your massage, it is highly recommended that you either undress completely or remove all clothing except your underwear. Whether you prefer to be completely nude or to keep your underwear on, you will always be properly draped. This being said, if you need to remain fully- or partially-dressed in order to feel comfortable, please do so! All good massage therapists know how to work on a client who has chosen to remain clothed.
Do you work on the glutes?
Yes, but only if the client is comfortable with glute work, which will be established during intake. While I highly recommend glute work (the glutes are one of your largest and hardest-working muscle groups!), I never undrape the glutes when I am working on them, even if the client has kept their underwear on. No exceptions.
Are there any areas of the body you do not work on?
I do not perform any abdominal work, nor do I work on breasts or private areas. Anyone asking for the latter will immediately be told to leave and will not be permitted to return.
How often should I get a massage?
How often you receive massage is completely dependent on what is going on with your body and what your treatment goals are. Most individuals could benefit highly from monthly massage, but some may need or want to come more often.
What if I fall asleep/snore/drool/pass gas during the massage?
These are all natural bodily functions that occur when we're relaxed, and they are not uncommon or anything to be embarrassed by. I would much rather you relax and enjoy your massage than worry about any of these things happening! And if you happen to fall asleep, don't worry--I will take it as a compliment :-)
What if I need to use the restroom during the massage?
I encourage clients to use the restroom before our session begins, but just like the above, restroom emergencies are not unheard of during a massage. If you need to go, please speak up. I will leave the room and let you get dressed.
Do you mind if I don't, or forgot to, shave my legs?
Not at all! There is no need to apologize or feel self-conscious if your legs (or underarms) are unshaven. As a massage therapist, I am accustomed to seeing and touching all types of bodies with varying personal preferences in regard to body hair. I never judge the choices you make in regard to your body.
.png)