What to Expect

Client Intake

Before your first massage I'll have you fill out a health history form, so I can determine if there are any special precautions I should take, or reasons massage may not be appropriate for you. I will give you my Client Bill of Rights.

Goal-Setting

We will discuss your goals for the massage, and what style of massage you would like. If you have particular areas of concern I'll ask you about your symptoms, their history, and the effects on your day-to-day activities. I'll tell you how I plan to address your concerns.

Preparation

I'll leave the room so you can undress in private. You should undress only to your own level of comfort. Massage works best on bare skin, but it's also important that you be relaxed. You'll get on the massage table under a top sheet or towel. Since your comfort is important, I have an electric table warmer and a blanket available. I have a selection of relaxing music, or you may choose silence.

Time spent on Client Intake, Goal-Setting, and Preparation will not come out of your massage time.

Your Massage

I will undrape you just as needed for your massage, and within your limits. I will not work through your clothing unless you ask me to. Of course I do not work on genitals or breasts. I will use almond oil or a hypo-allergenic natural lotion that absorbs well. I will check in with you about the pressure I'm using. I will adjust your massage as I go, according to my findings and your reaction. If you have chosen focused work on a problem area your massage may be painful at times. But it is important that any pain be at a level you can relax into, rather than tighten against. So we'll be talking about that. I won't initiate conversation about anything other than your massage, but if you're in a talkative mood you'll find me a good listener.

You retain control of your massage. If I use too much pressure or do anything else you're not comfortable with, just let me know, and I'll stop.

Afterwards

When I'm done I'll leave the room so you can get dressed in private. When you're ready we'll discuss your massage. I will be particularly interested in hearing about any aspect of your massage that you found unsatisfying. I will encourage you to drink lots of water the rest of the day, and to take your time before re-entering the rest of the world.