What to Expect

Conversation - You can definitely expect conversation. That's the beginning and end to every appointment. I'll enjoy learning about you and your life, struggles and goals, and the state of your overall well-being. This will also include your consultation and we will discuss your recent health history, therapeutic goals, concerns and your main reason for receiving a massage that day.

Getting On the Table - Next, we will talk about the massage itself, you'll either begin the massage laying on your back or laying on your stomach. And I'll walk you through what to expect during your massage based on the information gathered during your consultation. I will always step out of the room to give you privacy to dress down to your comfort level, lay down on the table, and cover yourself with the blanket.

"Dress Down to your Comfort Level" - If you've had a massage before I'm sure you have heard this said, but what does it mean? To put it simply, it means for you to take off as much clothing as you can and still feel comfortable. It is important that you feel comfortable during your massage. If you don’t, your mind may be distracted with anxiety. Which will not allow your body to receive any benefits from the massage. It is normal for a client to wear underwear or be completely naked during a massage. In some cases men wear athletic shorts and women wear bras. Don't worry about doing what is “normal” because you're worried about being judged. Everyone is different and has had difference experiences. What is comfortable for Suzy Mae may not be for John Doe. Especially if one is a Survivor of Abuse or a Trauma Victim. Even emotional abuse and trauma can have a surprising affect to one physically.

Communication - I encourage all clients everywhere to keep a line of communication open with their therapist throughout the massage. This doesn't mean continue to talk without take a breath, but that you address anything that needs to be said. Examples of things you should mention:

- Anytime you are uncomfortable even if you don't know why.

- Anytime the pressure is too much or if the massage is painful.

- When the therapist is doing deep work let them know when something feels particularly different, like a "good hurt" or if the pain/sensation radiates to another part of the body.

- If the draping needs to be adjusted because you feel even slightly exposed.

- You also have the right to terminate the massage at anytime. Just say, "Please do not touch me, I want to to terminate the massage."

Emotional Release - During a massage as a muscle releases tension you could suddenly be filled with an emotion and feel a strong need to let it out. DO NOT suppress the emotion. Let it out as is whether it's crying, yelling, the need to move, sighing or a nameless and unexpected expression. Whatever the case, let it out and do not suppress it within your body storing it an another muscle yet again. Feel free to allow the therapist to continue working during your release, ask them to step aside for a few moments or leave the room completely.

Getting Off the Table - When your massage is over I will let you know, then step out of the room. If the room is open (like a living room) I will wait until you call me be back in. If there is a door I'll give you several minutes to get get dressed then knock before entering. When your massage has ended you have the right to take several minutes to just lay on the table before getting up and I encourage you to do so. Do not worry about the therapist's need to clean and break down. Cleaning at that moment is not my priority. You are still my priority.

Take your time to readjust to your body and don't force your body or mind to move faster than what feels right. I hope you lay still for a couple minutes wiggling your toes and running your hands over your arms. Then maybe flip onto your side in a fetal potion, take several minutes just laying there and when you are ready, without forcing yourself, sit up. Stay seated for a while maybe kicking your feet and stretching your upper body. Finally, stand and get dressed slowly. Take a seat when you are ready. How long it takes you to get off table will depend on what you experienced during your massage.

It is different for everyone and it will be different from past massages so take your time.

Before We Part Ways - If you are interested in healing your body and taking control over your health, I will gladly share my findings with you. I will suggest several self-care exercises for you to preform each day to help heal your body. Self-care exercises could include stretching, strengthening exercises, Range-of-Motion exercises, and relaxation techniques to practice. Your self-care routine will ebb and flow as you progress. I may encourage you to continue with your current routine or make adjustments.