What to Expect During A Massage or Bodywork Session

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

Who will perform the massage or bodywork?
Your session will be conducted by a trained professional who has received proper training, often in a variety of techniques. Some massage and bodywork practitioners are licensed by the state, while others are locally regulated. Although no two massages are exactly alike, you may request a certain technique or modality. You may also request your preference as to male or female therapist.

Must I be completely undressed?
Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, you may decide what amount of clothing you prefer to wear for your own comfort.

Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet or towel.

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

What parts of my body will be massaged?
You and the practitioner will discuss the desired outcome of your session. This will determine which parts of your body require massage. A typical full body massage will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck and shoulders. You will not be touched on or near your genitals (male or female) or breasts (female).

Will lubricant be used?
A light oil or lotion may be used to permit your muscles to be worked on without causing excessive friction to the skin. The lubricants used should hydrate the skin and be readily absorbed.

What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
It depends on the techniques used. In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with broad, flowing strokes which will help to calm your nervous system and relax specific areas and relieve areas of muscular tension. You should communicate immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken. Massage and bodywork are most effective when your body is not resisting.

Are there different kinds of massage and bodywork?
There are numerous types of massage and bodywork; various techniques utilize different strokes, including basic rubbing strokes, rocking movement, posture and movement reeducation, application of pressure to specific points, etc. Ask the practitioner about the methods he or she uses.

How long will the session last?
The average full-body massage or bodywork session lasts approximately one hour. A half-hour appointment only allows time for a partial massage session, such as neck and shoulders, back or legs and feet. Many people prefer a 60- to 90-minute session for optimal relaxation. Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session. Hot tubs, steam baths and saunas can assist in the relaxation process.

What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?
Make yourself comfortable. The practitioner will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm). Many people just close their eyes and completely relax. Others like to talk during their massage or bodywork. Feel free to ask the practitioner questions about massage and bodywork in general or about the particular technique you are receiving.

How will I feel after the massage or bodywork session?
Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension and 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. Since toxins are released from your soft tissues during a massage, it is recommended that you drink plenty of water following your massage.

What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?
Massage or 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 muscle tissue, improve posture, and may reduce blood pressure.

Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable?
Before you begin your session, the practitioner will ask some general health questions. It is very important that you inform the practitioner of any health problems or medications that 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. Many practitioners may require a recommendation or approval from your doctor.

For more information, please email us at awilley427@comcast.net or call (908) 232-2341.