Frequently Asked Questions
Massage is a wonderful practice with many benefits, but it can be intimidating if you’ve never received one before. Here are some frequently asked questions to help make you more comfortable and informed.
Do I have to be unclothed?
No, you do not have to be unclothed. However, the less clothing you are wearing the easier it is for the therapist to work your muscles and get deeper to the underlying tissues. Massage generally uses oils and lotions to aid in the gliding motions that are common in most massage; many clients do not want these on their clothing and usually wear only their underwear. We want you to feel safe and comfortable during your session, so the amount of clothing you are wearing is up to you.
Will I be covered during the session? Do I have privacy?
Your privacy is very important us. You will be covered by a clean sheet at all times during your massage. Only the area currently being worked on will be exposed. While undressing, the therapist will step out of the room until you are laying on the table under the sheet and are relaxed and ready for your massage.
How old should you be to get a massage?
Massage is beneficial to people of all ages. For clients ages 0-17, for the comfort of the parent and child, we require a parent or guardian be present in the room at all times during the massage. Please keep in mind that small bodies do not need a lot of time to be worked on, younger children usually only need a 30 minute appointment.
Is there any reason I would not want to get a massage?
Yes, there are times when you want to avoid getting a massage. For example, if you are sick or have a very recent injury that is still swollen and painful, you should wait until you are feeling better. Massage can aid in recovery, but in the early stages it is important to let your body get the rest that it needs. There are also certain medical conditions that may make receiving massage dangerous. It is important that your therapist is aware of your medical conditions and history to avoid any complications. Massage is often an aid to reduce symptoms of certain chronic illnesses, but may require a doctors approval. Feel free to ask your therapist or doctor if you have any concerns.
Your appointment is for you. Feel free to talk or lay silently with your eyes closed, whatever makes you feel relaxed and at ease. If the therapist needs you in a certain position, they will gently move you or ask you to do so. Afterward, to receive the full benefits, try to relax and drink plenty of water. Drinking water is the number one way to avoid muscle soreness.
What should I do during and after a massage?
Am I expected to tip?
It is usually customary to tip your therapist 20% of the session cost. However, tips are not expected and are only greatly appreciated.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for my massage?
After you make an appointment, you should receive a reminder text 2 weeks before and 24 hours before your scheduled time. Please fill out the forms that you receive through that text. It is also a good idea to hydrate. When muscles get tight, they trap the natural byproducts of cell function. The trapped toxins can cause muscles to remain tight and sore; massage releases muscles and tissues allowing these to exit your body. In order to properly flush these out of your system and avoid muscle soreness, your body needs a lot water.