Massage Therapy FAQs
Q: I have never had a massage before. What can I expect?
A: Great question, glad you asked! Honestly, it depends. If you need TMJ or other focused work, your session will be different than a relaxation-focused massage. For many clients, I combine focused work with relaxation massage. I talk you through everything before your first massage. You can always ask questions.
Massages SHOULD NOT HURT. If your pain level ever gets above a four (4) - or past the point of “hurts so good” - on the pain scale, PLEASE let me know. I promise massage can be effective without hurting.
Q: What do I wear? How undressed do I get?
A: You can wear whatever you want to your massage. If you are getting a chair massage, you leave your clothes on, so I would say wear something you can sit in and move your arms around comfortably.
For a traditional table massage, clothing is optional. You will always be covered with a sheet and a blanket. I only uncover the part of the body I am currently working on, and I NEVER undrape private areas. You can leave everything on, take everything off, or anywhere in between. Leaving certain items of clothing on can limit the techniques I am able to use.
Jewelry: I can work around almost all jewelry, but if you can take it off, I kindly request that you do.
Makeup: I don’t mind if you wear makeup, but it could be messed up by the face cradle. I am not able to do certain work on the face, like sinus relief, if you are wearing a full face of makeup.
Lotion: Please do not put lotion on before a massage. I use jojoba and when the two mix, it makes unpleasant gunk.
Hair Gel/Spray: This is not an issue, and I will try my best to not mess your hair up, but I will not perform scalp massage if you are wearing hair gel or hair spray.
Q: My body made a noise (EX: stomach growled, passed gas, snored) and I am embarrassed. How can I show my face again?
A: This is totally normal. Massage is relaxing, so if you fall asleep and snore, it is not a problem There’s no need to be embarrassed. Same goes for digestion noises.
Massage takes the nervous system out of the Sympathetic “fight or flight” mode and puts it into Parasympathetic “rest and digest” mode. Noises are normal, and it is very possible you will hear my stomach grumble as well.
Q: I’m uncomfortable, do I say something?
A: YES!! Please!! This is your massage and your comfort is a top priority. Is the table too warm? Music annoying? Lights too bright? Pressure too light or too firm? TELL ME. I can’t read your mind, but I never want you to be uncomfortable.
Q: Can we play something other than spa music?
A: Yes! I usually play calm piano music during massages, but if you don’t like that, no problem! I have Spotify, so send me a playlist you like and I will put that on instead.
Q: Can we chat? / Can I request a silent massage?
A: Either way is fine with me! I follow your lead. If you start chatting, I will talk with you. If you want a silent session, we can do that too. Want to chat one session, but be silent the next? Great! This is your massage. There are a few exceptions: I talk with you when I am doing TMJ work to let you know what I am doing. When we first start working together, I check on pressure and comfort a couple of times during the massage. Once I know your preferences, these check-ins lessen.
Q: If my phone rings can I answer?
A: Yes. Again, it is your massage. If not answering your phone would cause you more stress, then by all means, please answer it. Have a whole conversation if that’s what you want to do. You’re paying for the time. I do not pause for the phone call.
Q: Do you take tips? Are they required?
A: Tips are absolutely NOT required, but greatly appreciated.
Q: What is your cancellation policy?
A: 24-hour advanced notice is required when canceling an appointment. There is a 20% fee for any no-shows or cancellations within 24 hours of the scheduled appointment.
My cancellation policy applies to me too. If I have to cancel on you less than 24 hours before your appointment, I will take 20% off of the service price.
Q: What if I am running late?
A: I schedule 30 minutes between clients. If you are more than 15 minutes late for your appointment, I may not be able to give you the full amount of service time. Please plan to arrive 5 to 10 minutes early for your appointment.
Q: What if I miss my appointment?
A: If you miss your appointment without contacting me, there is a 20% fee for any no-shows. That fee will have to be paid before the client is allowed to book their next appointment.