How do I know what kind of massage technique is best for me?

Prior to your massage, your therapist will discuss with you the reasons you want to receive massage as well as any physical symptoms you may be having. On the basis of this information, she will suggest the type of massage that would best suit your needs.

 

Must I undress to receive massage?

Some kinds of massage, such as Reiki or neuromuscular repatterning, can be done with clothes on. For other kinds of massage, such as Swedish and deep tissue massage, oil or lotion is applied to facilitate the strokes. In this case, the client undresses, but may leave on underwear. The client's feeling of comfort and safety is always of the utmost importance.

 

Will I be covered during the massage?

Clients are draped with a sheet or towel during a massage. Only the area being worked on is uncovered.

 

What parts of my body will be massaged?

The goals and the length of your treatment will determine which parts of the body are massaged. A therapeutic massage designed to treat a problem area will focus more on that area and the muscles that contribute to the dysfunction. A relaxation massage usually includes the head, neck, shoulders, back, arms and hands, legs and feet. For men, a relaxation massage includes the chest and abdomen. For women, therapeutic breast massage is available on request.

 

How long is a massage?

At least one hour is advised for most kinds of massage. This allows the client to deeply relax and enables the therapist to thoroughly address all of the clients needs. A half hour session is good for treating a specific area, such as the neck and shoulders, or the legs and feet. May people prefer hour and a half or two hour treatments? This works especially well for large people who want deep, specific work as well as relaxation.

 

What kind of lubricant is used?

The lotions used are designed to lubricate and nourish the skin while providing enough glide to perform the strokes. They are absorbed by the skin, leave little residue and wash out easily. In the initial interview, your therapist will ask if you have any allergies or sensitivities, and the lotion will be chosen accordingly.

 

What will the massage feel like?

It depends on the type of massage. In a Reiki session, a clothes-on treatment, the therapist gently places her hands on different parts of the body, allowing the body to relax. Both Swedish and deep tissue massage use long, flowing superficial strokes which calm the nervous system, encourage slower, deeper breathing, and reduce muscle tension. In therapeutic treatments, the therapist gently increases the pressure or focuses on specific points to relieve pain and relax specific muscles. Stretching and passive movement of the limbs is often included to free the joints. Should you feel any discomfort, it is important to tell your therapist immediately, so that she can modify the technique.

 

How will I feel after the massage?

Most people feel very relaxed after a massage; sometimes they experience being slow or "spacey". In a little while, after this feeling wears off, they feel revitalized. Following the release of long-held pain and tension, people often feel energized and experience more freedom of movement. After an evening massage, clients often report that they sleep very soundly. Occasionally, a deep massage treatment will cause some soreness the following day, similar to the effects of an intense workout. Ice and Ibuprofen can be helpful. This discomfort goes away in a day or so.

 

What should I do during the massage?

Do what makes you comfortable.  Some people like to close their eyes. Some people like silence; others like to talk. Either is okay. Your therapist will tell you if there is anything you need to do, and you are welcome to ask questions. The most important thing is to remember that it's your time to be taken care of and receive. So just relax and enjoy!

 

Are there medical conditions that make massage inadvisable?

Massage is contraindicated for some medical conditions. For this reason, it is important that you inform your therapist of all medical conditions and any medications you are taking. If you have a medical condition, it is strongly recommended that check with your physician about receiving massage. In some cases, your therapist may ask for written permission from your doctor.

 

Do you take insurance?

Nuance Bodywork is not currently a registered provider for any of the insurance plans. However, you may request a standardized receipt and appropriate documentation to present to your insurance company for reimbursement. Some auto insurance companies will pay for massage following an accident. With authorization for payment from the claims adjuster, I will accept deferred payment.