What to Expect

Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music may be played to help you relax. You will lie on a table especially designed for your comfort with clean sheets and a blanket.

I always say, less is best! 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 during the entire session. With energy-work sessions, you will remained clothed.

I will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet. After a few minutes, I will knock on the door to be sure you are underneath the blankets, and begin 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. 

A typical full-body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders. Hips/gluteals can be added upon request. If there are any of these areas that you would not liked massage or touched, please let me know.

A relaxing Swedish massage is often a baseline for clients. In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with 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 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 any discomfort so that another approach may be taken. Massage and bodywork are most effective when your body is not resisting.

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 can discuss which methods may be most appropriate for you. 

Prior to the massage, feel free to ask me any questions about the technique(s) or the upcoming session. During the massage, make yourself comfortable. 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. 

Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. Sometimes, immediately after the session, there can be a feeling of lightheadedness— a term I have coined "massage drunk". If you experience this, the best thing to do is to sit for a minute or two and drink some water. Your body is adjusting to the increased circulation and relief of tension. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days.

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.

Yes. That's why it's imperative that, before you begin your session, I ask general health questions. 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.

Reiki is the Japanese energetic healing technique that promotes relaxation, reduces stress and anxiety through light touch. Reiki is similar to a guided meditation. The technique of laying-of-hands sends “universal energies” to the body and/or particular area of the body that can help to facilitate self-healing and balance. Other benefits can include: inducing a meditative state, foster tissue and bone regeneration, stimulates the body's immune response, relieves pain and tension, and supports overall well-being.