What To Expect During Your Massage Appointment

Before Your Visit

 Before Booking Your Massage

When you have decided to make your appointment make sure this is a good time for you to receive massage. It’s always a good idea to reschedule if you have a fever, skin irritations, such as poison ivy or a sunburn, or if you have chronic health conditions which may need to be stabilized, such as high blood sugar or diabetes.

First Visit- Online Forms

On your first visit you will be asked to fill out a health and consent form. Effective massage includes conversations early on with clients about their needs and desired health outcomes and then creating a massage therapy plan to meet those goals. It is always a good idea to arrive approximately 15 minutes early to complete any forms.

When You First Come In

Interview

At every appointment before your massage begins, the therapist will review any old or new health concerns that may be going on so the session can be adjusted to meet your needs and keep you safe. Because massage can affect multiple body systems, such as the cardiovascular and nervous systems, be honest with the therapists so they can assure you are safe and healthy for massage.

You will also be asked what areas you would like to have included in your session as well as any areas you would like avoided. For instance if you do not feel comfortable with gluteal, feet, face, etc. work then this is a good time to tell your therapist when they ask. In addition, let the therapist know if you prefer certain techniques used or not used.

If you have any concerns or questions always feel free to ask during this time. This is your session and your comfort and privacy are of the utmost importance.

Starting Your Massage

Undressing

You will be instructed to “undress to your comfort level” once the therapist leaves the room. You will then lay on the massage table and cover yourself with the sheet and blanket. Most clients either undress leaving their under garments on or undress completely. Either case is appropriate and perfectly ok. All clients are professionally draped to keep both your’s & the therapist’s modesty respected. If you are uncomfortable undressing let your therapist know and appropriate accommodations can be made. It’s also a good idea to take off jewelry so the therapist does not accidentally break or damage any items. A table warmer can be adjusted to meet your desired temperature and comfort level.

During Your Massage

Once on the table the therapist will return and knock before entering. Make sure you are comfortable and let the therapist know if you’re not. Tell the therapist if your are cold, want to be covered, don’t want an area of your body touched, don’t like the music, or are experiencing discomfort with a technique or how it is being applied. Remember, you are in charge, and can ask for changes or stop the session at any time. All aspects of the session such as music, lighting, temperature, pressure, or positioning on the table or of the face cradle can be customized to meet your needs.

Relax and let your thoughts go during this time. The therapist will only talk if you begin talking or unless there is a question that the therapist needs to ask to ensure your comfort. This is your time to relax and you do not need to feel obligated to talk. However you are also more than welcome to talk if that is more comfortable. It is perfectly acceptable to even drift off into a comfortable sleep during your session. Remember to breathe during massage as this helps the body to relax.

Wrap Up

After Your Session Ends

The therapist will instruct you to redress and then leave the room. Take your time when sitting up from your massage. Once you have redressed open the door and the therapist will give you a bottle of water for you to take with you. You will be given “after care instructions” such as making sure to drink your normal daily intake of water, taking Epsom salt baths or stretches to help increase the benefits of your massage. You will then be checked out and the therapist will book your next appointment.

Payment And Tipping

We accept all forms of payment including: cash, Visa, Master Card, Discover, American Express or Key of Life Wellness and Massage gift certificates. Tipping is not necessary or required but always appreciated.