Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
Must I be undressed?
Will the practitioner be present if I disrobe?
Will I be covered during the session?
What parts of my body will be massaged?
What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
Are there different kinds of massage and bodywork?
What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?
How will I feel after the massage or bodywork session?
What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?
Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable?

Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a comfortable, quiet room in an office setting, your home or place of business. Typically, initial visits are encouraged at one of our locations or in a public office environment. Subsequent visits may be in a home setting, especially if the client is not ambulatory and massage has been indicated by a qualified health professional. At the client's request, music may be played. A specially designed table will be used for your comfort during the session.

Must I be undressed?
For most of the bodywork techniques we administer, the client wears loose fitting clothing, like a Yoga or jogging outfit. In any massage setting, the client determines the level of dress to their level of comfort. Regardless, the client will always be properly draped during the entire session.

Will the practitioner be present if I disrobe?
The practitioner will leave the room while the client prepares for the session if the client needs to disrobe. A knock on the door accompanied by a request to enter will signal the practitioner's return to the massage area. The client will have the opportunity to climb onto the table and cover themselves with a clean sheet or towel.

Will I be covered during the session?
The client will be properly draped at all times to maintain warmth and comfort. In all cases, only the area of the body being worked on will be exposed.

What parts of my body will be massaged?
A typical full bodywork session will include therapy on the back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, stomach, neck and shoulders. The client is asked at the beginning of each session as to their comfort concerning the areas to be massaged, and the practitioner checks in with the client throughout the massage to assess their comfort level. This therapy is for the benefit of the client, who is always encouraged to voice their likes or dislikes. Please do so.

What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
A typical Shiatsu kata, or form, will feel relaxing and invigorating at the same time. This may seem oxymoronic, however, the session starts with a rocking motion that puts the body into the parasympathetic state, also known as the resting and digesting relaxed state of being. As the routine progresses, finger presses are made up and down the muscle groups of the back, arms, neck, legs, feet, stomach and face, as desired. Due to the sequence along the Chinese “meridians,” the body is rebalanced, relaxed and energy restored. If there are areas of muscle adhesions, isolated pressure, to the client's level of comfort, may be employed to relax and relieve the affected areas of muscular tension and aches. Oils and lotions are not usually used in Eastern modalities. The client should communicate immediately if any discomfort is felt, so another approach may be taken. Massage and bodywork are most effective when the client is relaxed and communicating their needs to the practitioner.

Are there different kinds of massage and bodywork?
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. We can discuss which methods may be most appropriate for you.

What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?
Prior to the massage, feel free to ask the practitioner any questions about the technique or the upcoming session. During the massage, make yourself comfortable. The practitioner 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, please feel free to ask. Your comfort is of paramount importance.

How will I feel after the massage or bodywork session?
Most people feel relaxed and energized. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness and greater productivity which can last for days.

What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?
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.

Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable?
Yes, which is why it is imperative, before the session begins, for the practitioner to ask general health questions. It is important you inform the practitioner 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 before a session can be conducted.