Where will my massage take place?  Your massage session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room.  Soft music will be played and lighting lowered to help you relax. You will lie on a table especially designed for your comfort. 

Must I be completely undressed?  Most massage techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, you may decide what amount of clothing you prefer to wear for your own comfort.  You will be properly draped with a full sheet and blanket.   The therapist  will leave the massage room while you undress, relax onto the table and cover yourself with a fresh sheet and the blanket.  You will be properly draped at all times during the session.  Only the area being worked on will be exposed.  

What parts of my body will be massaged?  You and the therapist will discuss the desired outcome of your session during the initial intake.  This will determine which parts of your body require massage.  A typical full-body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, shoulders and abdomen (females breasts are always covered during abdominal work).  You will not be touched on or near your genitals (male or female) or breasts (female).  A light oil will be used to permit your muscles to be worked on without causing excessive friction to the skin.  The oil used will help hydrate the skin and most will absorb in.  Cloths are available to wipe off excess oil if you wish. 

What will the massage feel like?  It depends on the techniques used.  In a general massage, your session will start with a scalp and face massage with no oil.  Then moving to the neck & shoulders, arms, abdomen then legs.  After turning onto your stomach the back of legs and your back will end the session.  A general massage will incorporate broad, flowing strokes that will help to calm your nervous system and ease exterior muscle tension.  As your body unwinds, pressure will gradually be increased to relax and relieve specific areas of muscular tension.  You should communicate with your therapist immediately if you feel any discomfort so that pressure can be adjusted.  Massage is most efective when your body is not resisting.

The average full-body session lasts one hour.  A half-hour appt. only allows for more specific work (i.e. neck & shoulders).  Many people prefer a sixty or ninety minute session for optimal relaxation.  Always allow relaxation time after the session.  Hot tubs, steam baths, saunas can assist in the relaxation process.  You should limit physical activity after the massage (DO NOT GO FROM YOUR MASSAGE TO THE GYM TO ATTEND A KETTLE BALL CLASS OR LIFT WEIGHTS). 

What should I do during the massage session?  Make yourself comfortable.  The therapist will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as turning over).  Many people just close their eyes and envision a relaxing place such as a campfire in the woods, sitting by a lake listening to the waves, etc.  Other people prefer to talk during their session.  That is fine--it will not interfere with your massage session.  Feel free to ask questions during the massage. 

How will I feel after the massage session?  Most people feel very relaxed.  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.