Q: Why Massage Therapy?

A: Massage therapies have many health benefits. One benefit is pain control. Massage can create a general feeling of well being. One may feel at peace with the world, thus self. It is a GREAT way "to relax" and and "getaway from the daily grind".

Q: What is Swedish massage ?

A: Swedish massage primarily affects the skin -- our largest organ. This form of massage has light and relaxing strokes. It calms the nervous system.

Q: Is there a difference in Therapeutic massage and "deep tissue" work?

A: Yes. Therapeutic massage goes into the muscle tissue. "Working out" constrictions ("knots"), spasms, inflammation; etc. . It uses deeper pressure than Swedish massage. Deep Tissue massage is usually a speciality practice. For example, if a NFL football player "pulls a hamstring", one might work on that muscle group for an entire session(s). True deep tissue work is deeper and more concentrated on a specific injury and/or muscle than Therapeutic massage.

Q: May I drink alcoholic beverages before and/or after a massage?

A: Remember, with ANY type of massage -- circulation is enhanced. You should limit alcohol intake for at least 2 hours before your massage. Try to drink water with your alcohol beverage (alcohol is dehydrating). After your massage, ENJOY your glass(es) of wine: however, drink your glasses of water (again, not to become dehydrated). Depending upon one's system, if these general "rules" are not followed, one might become drunk---faster (circulation is enhanced) or, "feel sick".

Q: Does massage hurt?

A: Massage should not per se "hurt" to accomplish the goal and/or chief complaint issues of what the client desires. It is normal for ANY modality of massage (dependent upon the client's pain tolerence) to leave one feeling tender or sore for 24 to 72 hours. However, the suggested water intake can help the muscles/tissues recover faster.

Q: Do I have to be totally nude for the massage?

A: No. One may undress to their comfort level. You may keep your underwear on -- or, take it off. The Massage Therapist will respect your boundaries. You will only be uncovered on the part(s) of the body of which are being massaged.

Q: Will I feel RELAXED ?

A: Dependent upon your personal nervous system, you should feel relaxed. Research shows that 15 minutes of massage equals 2 hours of rest and/or sleep (what massage influences on brain/body chemicals; etc.).

Q: Should I ask if the Massage Therapist(s) is/are licensed?

A: Yes. You are the client. You have rights. You are paying for the service(s).

Q: Does massage help with PAIN control?

A: Yes. Massage offers a per se "natural" approach in promoting the absorption of inflammatory exudates (as seen in arthritis, fibromyalgia, injury; etc.). Metabolic wastes (toxins) could be excreted from the body. Accordingly, swelling would decrease. Endorphins, "natural pain killers", would be released from the brain. Thus, "pain control".

Q: Can children under the age of 18 receive a massage ?

A: Yes. Under the age of 18, a parent and/or guardian must be present.

Q: It is my first massage, will I like it ?

A: YES! Hopefully, it will be a very relaxed environment where you can "drift away" . TRY IT! Smile!