you may have a lot of questions and some may feel kind of embarrassing!  Not to worry, we’ll address the most common questions here and if you have more questions just ask. Remember, we have all been there. Even your therapist had to receive their first massage at some point. You can bet they were nervous or unsure and had some of the same questions before their first massage!

What type of massage should I choose?

There are many different types of body work, and each individual has their own unique situation and needs.  Most often we recommend first-time clients start their experience with a basic Swedish Massage, the most common service.  It’s a full body massage that incorporates smooth gliding and kneading strokes.  Starting with a Swedish Massage allows you to better understand what body work is like and how your body responds to massage.  
Please be sure to check out our ‘Best Service For You’ section to help you choose the most appropriate treatment  for your particular needs.

What is a full body massage?

In general, a Full Body Massage is performed in a 60 minute time frame. It includes work on the back, neck, shoulders, arms, legs, feet, hands and head. But, not always in that order. 

Can I talk to my therapist or should I be quiet?

Some people talk when they are nervous.  Some people can’t imagine lying on a massage table for an hour quietly. Some people need no encouragement at all to zone out completely.  Any of these scenarios are just fine. There is no need for you to feel you have to talk or be silent. Do what makes you comfortable.  Your therapist will take her cue from you.

SHOULD A MASSAGE HURT?

You may have heard it before – I know I have! “If it doesn’t hurt, it must not be doing anything.”  There couldn’t be a bigger untruth or misconception about massage!  Why would you pay someone to hurt you?  Even if you have pain to start, shouldn’t you expect to leave the session feeling better then when you arrived, not worse?  We think so.  To ensure that you do not experience pain during your massage, there is only one requirement: Communication.  It’s simple, if the pressure is too much, say so.  Everyone’s touch sensitivity is different. Your therapist may start your session at an average medium pressure, but if it is too much for you or you prefer more pressure, just say so.  A session should be about your comfort and needs.   It’s not an opportunity for your therapist to prove how strong they are but for you to enjoy your massage.   At times, with Therapeutic or Deep Tissue Massage, you may find you have moments of discomfort, but still you should never be in pain.  A good therapist should have more tools than just pressure to help you alleviate muscle tension. 

What should i DO during my massage?

Nothing.  Really.  A massage is your time to relax and just chill.  You’re not expected to make conversation. You’re not expected to think too hard. You’re not really expected to do ANYTHING.  Well, you may be asked to turn over onto your back at some point, but that will most likely be the most strenuous thing you do during a massage.  In fact, the less you do, the better.  If you do try to “help” by moving your limbs or head, you will just be engaging the muscles that your therapist has worked to relax.  There is no reason for you to demand those jellied muscles to do anything at all, until your session is over!  If your therapist feels they need to turn your head, move your arm, adjust a bolster – they will, and you don’t have to help one bit!

What if I'm too hot/cold or the face rest is uncomfortable or the bolster is in the wrong place?

Remember how we spoke of communication earlier?  Honestly, it is the key to enjoying your massage. If something could be better – tell us! 
If we can change it, we will.  We pride ourselves in being receptive and responsive to our clients’ needs.
We can’t read minds, but we will make every effort to respond to your requests and make your experience enjoyable.

Do I have to listen to New-age, hippy spa music?

We understand that not everyone finds the same types of music relaxing.  As with anything else during your massage, if you don’t like something, ask if it can be changed.  Currently, if you have a device with a headphone jack, with music that you do like, you are welcome to plug it into the speaker in our treatment room. 

Do I get completely undressed?

Our normal response to this question is that you should undress to your comfort level.  Only you can determine your comfort level.  About 50% of clients choose to remove their undergarments.  Often, if a client has low back issues that they wish to have worked on, we recommend removing undergarments or at the very least moving them down so your therapist is able to work on that area. We also recommend women remove their bras, so your therapist is able to access your entire back without worry of getting oil or lotion on the fabric or having to work around straps.  Your therapist is well versed in proper draping techniques, and you will be covered, under a sheet and blanket, at all times. Again, your comfort and modesty is of utmost importance to us.  Only the areas that your therapist is working on will be uncovered. 
WHAT IF I GET AROUSED, SNORE, DROOL OR FART?
It happens but don't worry. you’re not the first one to get relaxed and have one of these things occur.  It’s really not as big of a deal as you might think.  If you’re a man and you’re concerned that you may get aroused during your massage, wear briefs. Keep in mind that a professional massage is absolutely non-sexual in nature.  If you’re afraid of snoring or drooling, ask your therapist to gently wake you if you fall asleep.  If you’re concerned about the possibility of passing gas during your treatment, be aware of the things you eat the night before or directly before your session.  Avoid fast foods, leafy greens or other foods you know make you gassy.  Should this advice fail, just remember our bodies do funny things. Even if you’re embarrassed by any of these situations, you’re therapist isn’t. 



Please take a look at our Policies page if you have questions that we did not address here. 
Knowing our policies will also help you prepare for your first massage.