Frequently Asked Questions: Massage Edition
Whether you're a first time massage client or a spa aficianado, when you see a new massage therapist or try a new modality, it's normal for questions to come up. We'll do our best to address common questions here, but if we don't answer yours, just give us a call!
What kind of massage should I get?
Every body has its own needs, determined by stress, daily activities, job demands, and level of physical activities. If you've never had a massage, or if it's been a long time, we generally recommend starting with a relaxation massage. Each massage begins with a consultation where you have the opportunity to discuss which areas are holding tension or feeling pain, and decide with your LMT (licensed massage therapist) how much pressure is appropriate, what your goals are (relaxation, stress relief, chronic pain relief, etc), and any areas you don't feel comfortable being touched (face, abdomen, thighs, etc.) In general, relaxation massages are good for stress relief and have light to medium pressure. Therapeutic massages are better for tension associated with athletics, physical labor, and repetitive use of muscles. Lymphatic massage is very light touch and helps with edema, or systemic swelling, by gently encouraging fluid return from affected areas, like ankles . Contrary to misinformation in popular fads, it is not a weight loss massage.
How often should I get a massage?
This also varies from person to person, but we generally recommend that clients with chronic stress or tension come in at least every 4 weeks, or more often, if the relief wears off before then. Clients with less demand on their bodies may be able to schedule every 6-8 weeks. Results of lymphatic massage are the shortest lived because of the nature of the lymphatic system, so clients combatting edema may require weekly or biweekly maintenance.
Is there any reason I shouldn't get a massage?
There are actually quite a few reasons to put off getting a massage, but the most common ones are contagious (or possibly contagious) illness, skin rashes or conditions, and some types of cancer or recent/upcoming chemotherapy (within 24 hours). In many of these cases, your LMT will request a doctor's note in order to proceed with the massage. Other less common reasons include untreated high/low blood pressure, a pregnancy that is not being attended by a doctor or RN midwife or that has complications, severe sunburn, or recent spray tan or filler/Botox (within 24 hours). If you're not sure, please give us a call or leave a message for one of our LMTs to call you back. Please review our cancelation policy if you feel you may be coming down with something. We'd much rather reschedule your appointment than risk a last minute cancelation.
Do you offer medical massage or take insurance?
We do not offer medical massage, nor do we accept insurance as payment for any of our spa services.
What should I expect from "energy work" as a massage?
Misty's background with energy work is based in Ayurveda, a 3,000 year old system of holistic medicine from India, which she practiced while working at The Chopra Center for Well Being. This school of ancient medicine teaches that the mind, body, and spirit are interconnected, and that disruptions in any of those areas may manifest as discomfort or illness in the others. Balancing the mind, body, and spirit leads to a sense of peace, better health, and improved energy flow. An energy work massage will begin with discussing what's going on in your life, including emotional discomfort and demands, and establishing your goals. The best experiences happen when you are able to convey at least a little about what you're feeling and how you want to feel instead. Many people come in "just to try it out," but more meaningful results happen when you're willing to go just a little deeper. Your experience may feel intensely relaxing (some people fall asleep), or possibly invigorating, or you may find yourself on an emotional feels-trip that leaves you feeling unburdened and lighter as you leave. It's different for everyone, every time.
Can I book a massage for my child?
Our LMTs will work on minors as young as 14, but we require a waiver to be signed prior to beginning the appointment. A parent or guardian must be in the room with the child at all times during the treatment. Teenagers aged 16+ may choose whether to have their parent/guardian accompany them into the treatment room. The waiver must still be signed by their guardian prior to treatment, as the legal age of adulthood in Texas is 18 years old. For children under the age of 14, please give us a call to consult with one of our LMTs.