Frequently Asked Questions
Massage
What is Massage?
A therapeutic method performed by the Licensed Massage Therapist where the therapist uses their hand, fist, elbow, and/or feet to stretch and manipulate muscles relieving tension and riding the body of stress, lactic acid, and other waste. The therapist uses long, smooth strokes, kneading, gliding, percussion and other movements on the body with oil or lotion.
Massage helps improves circulation by bringing oxygen and other nutrients to body tissues. Massage also relieves muscle tension and pain, increases flexibility and mobility, and helps clear lactic acid and other waste, which reduces pain and stiffness in muscles and joints.Does Massage Hurt?
Sometimes… however, it should only be the “good hurt”. Your muscles hold onto stress and tension, during massage toxins are released out of the muscles. This can result in soreness as the body works to flush out those toxins.
There is a very fine line between “good hurt” and bad hurt, don’t ever be afraid to let your therapist know if it’s no longer the “it hurts- please don’t stop” kind! If your body becomes too tense because of pain and you can’t relax, you are defeating the purpose of your massage.
Remember: it’s your massage, if ever the pressure is too much (or not enough) let your therapist know!
What to expect:
The therapist will have a brief “interview” before leaving you to get undressed and on the massage table. Depending on your therapist you can start lying on your back or your stomach. You will be under a sheet and/or blanket.
The therapist will apply oil, cream or lotion using light pressure and long flowing strokes to begin. During your massage, always let your therapist knows if the pressure is too much or not enough, if you are cold, or if you feel uncomfortable. Feel free to ask questions at any time, or close your eyes and relax!
Usually therapist will travel down one side of your body, starting with your arm, down your leg, and ending at your foot. Starting with the other foot, they will go up the opposite side of your body, beginning with your leg, then arm and ending again at your head. Once they have returned to your head, you will flip over and the same sequence will follow. They will uncover (or drape) the body part they will be working on and will re-cover as they finish with it.
After your massage you will most likely feel very relaxed although, it is not uncommon to be sore in areas of tension or where a lot of work was needed. Often there is relief from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. After an initial relaxation period, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity lasting for days. * A massage releases toxins from your muscles and soft tissue- it is important that you drink plenty of water following your massage to help flush the toxins from your body.
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 is also known to promote better sleep, improve concentration, reduce anxiety and create an overall sense of well-being. * It is very important that you inform the therapist of any health problems or medications you are taking.
Benefits of Massage
- Helps relieve stress
- Reduced fatigue
- Encourages relaxation
- Reduces hypertension
- Increases circulation by pumping oxygen & nutrients into tissues & organs
- Helps manage anxiety & depression
- Improves range of motion & flexibility
- Eases pain
- Enhances immunity by stimulating lymph flow (body’s natural defense system)
- Improves sleep
- Promotes tissue regeneration, reducing scar tissue & stretch marks
- Improves the condition of the skin
- Improved concentration
- Greater energy
- Release endorphins (amino acids that work as the body’s natural painkiller)
- Reduces spasms & cramping
- Relax and soften injured, tired, & overused muscles
Do I have to get completely undressed? :
No! You can get undressed to what you are comfortable wearing – it’s your massage and you need to be comfortable! People often leave on their underwear, however, it’s not necessary. Women generally remove their bras. Some people leave their socks on! There is NO right or wrong! You will be tucked comfortably under a sheet and/or blanket. Arms and legs will be uncovered as necessary and re-covered when finished. If clothing is left on, we find a way to work around it.
Testimonials
Jim, male, age 68
My main health issues for seeking massage were to sooth aches and pains of joints in hips and legs. I also wanted to improve circulation throughout my body. Massage helped me to relax and eased pain in my joints.
I also noticed it had a calming effect on my attitude/mood
Female, age 40
Female, age 30
Erika does such a great job! Love going for a massage here!
Pam, female, age 65
Erika is good at what she does, I had such relief after her Therapeutic massage. I need to go regularly.