Somatic Wellness
NURTURE YOUR BODY • MIND • SOUL

Frequently Asked Questions

Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
Must I be completely undressed?
Will the practitioner be present when 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, private room. Soft music may be played to help you relax. You will lie down on a table specifically designed for your comfort.

Must I be completely undressed? 
You should undress to your comfort level, but you are required to keep your bottom underwear on at all times.

Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
The practitioner will leave the room while you undress and lie down on the table underneath the sheets.

Will I be covered during the session?
You will be properly draped at all times to keep you covered, warm, and comfortable. Only the areas being worked on will be exposed.

What parts of my body will be massaged?
What is worked on is specific to each session. A typical full-body session will include work on your head, neck, shoulders, arms, hands, back, legs, and feet. Let your practitioner know if there are any parts of your body that are especially sensitive to touch or that you want to be avoided. 

What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
Experiences will vary based on the modalities and techniques used. A Swedish Relaxation Massage is often a baseline for clients. In a general Swedish Relaxation Massage, your session may start with broad, flowing strokes that will help calm your nervous system and relax exterior muscle tension. Often, lotion or oil is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. The oil or lotion also helps hydrate your skin. You should let your practitioner know if you have any allergies to lotions or oils prior to the session. You should communicate immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken. Massage and bodywork is most effective when your body is not resisting.

Are there different kinds of massage and bodywork?
There are many different types of massage and bodywork; various modalities utilize different techniques. We can discuss which approach will be the most appropriate for you.

What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?
During the massage, relax and make yourself comfortable. Tell the practitioner if you need more or less pressure, if you need the headrest or bolster adjusted for comfort,  If you have any questions regarding the session or about a particular technique you are receiving, feel free to ask. The practitioner may also ask you questions that are relevant to the session and tell you what is needed throughout the session. Massage and bodywork is most effective when there is open communication.  

How will I feel after the massage or bodywork session?
Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience freedom from muscle aches and pains developed from tension. After an initial period of feeling relaxed and possibly fatigued, people often experience increased energy and heightened awareness, which can last for days.

What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?
Massage and bodywork can help release muscular tension and pain, increase joint flexibility and range of motion, reduce mental and physical fatigue from stress, promote faster healing of injured muscular tissue, and improve posture. 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. That's why it's imperative that before you begin your session, the practitioner asks general health questions. It is very important that 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.