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!
Frequently Asked Questions: Massage Edition
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, we generally recommend starting with a relaxation massage. Each massage begins with a consultation where you have a chance 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. It is also sometimes recommended after surgeries, especially liposuction, tummy tucks, and mommy makeovers.
How often should I get a massage?
This also varies from person to person, based on activities and stress. Typically we recommend scheduling a massage at least every 4-6 weeks to help keep momentum going and to see lasting changes. Lymphatic massages need to be scheduled more frequently, sometimes as often as 2-3 times per week until the body has readjusted to changes.
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). Please review our cancellation policy if you feel you may be coming down with something. In most 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 and leave a message for one of our LMTs to call you back!
Do you offer medical massage or take insurance?
Our LMT has a background in kinesiology and personal training, but we do not offer medical massage, nor do we accept insurance as payment.
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. This school of medicine teaches that the mind, body, and spirit are interconnected, and that disruptions in one zone may manifest in the others. An energy work massage will begin with discussing what's going on in your life, including emotional discomfort and demands, and establishing your goals. Your experience may feel deeply 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 over the age of 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. For children under the age of 14, please give us a call to consult with one of our LMTs.