FAQ
What type of massage should I get?
All our Massages are a combination of techniques and modalities. At the beginning of each session your therapist will ask you what areas you would like to focus on and discuss a treatment plan.
Each session you therapist will use any of the following modalities to best address your needs that day. You do not need to specify a specific modality only that you like deeper pressure or lighter pressure. Throughout the session your therapist will check in to make sure you are comfortable with the pressure.
Swedish Massage is long gliding strokes meant to warm the muscles and calm the central nervous system. It is good for a deeply relaxing experience.
Deep Tissue Massage applies more pressure to the denser soft tissue with a slower stroke. Deep tissue works well in combination with Swedish to release and relax tense muscles.
Myofascial Release involves anchoring the muscle and stretching to release holding patterns. Myofascial release is for specific areas of repetitive motion or overuse and is often used in combination with Swedish massage.
Sports Massage is a combination of deep tissue and stretching with focus on improving the client’s specific repetitive patterns. Sports Massage is beneficial for the athlete experiencing pain or muscular limitations in their training.
How long is a session?
Sessions are 30, 45, 60, 75 and 90 minutes.
The 30 minute session is recommended for site specific issues or weekly maintenance
The 45 minute session is recommended for addressing a specific area with a little time spent on relaxation or a second area
The 60 minute session is recommended for the first time client or for bi-monthly maintenance
The 75 minute massage is recommended for the client who wants to add hot stones, cranial sacral therapy or keniso taping to their session but does not want to commit to 90 minutes
The 90 minute massage is recommended for head to toe complete relaxation or monthly maintenance program
How often should I schedule a massage?
Here’s a general guide to help you decide what’s best for where you are in your wellness journey:
- Weekly – For active pain or discomfort. Frequent, shorter sessions help break the pain cycle and get faster results.
- Every 2 Weeks – For manageable discomfort. Keep making progress without losing momentum.
- Every 4 Weeks – For general wellness. Maintain results with full-body relaxation and light targeted work.
- Every 6 Weeks – For maintenance and tune-ups when you’re pain-free.
- As Needed – For stress relief after major events or physical strain.
I have never had a massage before, what do I wear?
Your massage therapist will instruct you to undress to your comfort level. You will be covered by a sheet and only the areas being worked on at the time will be uncovered. For sports massage a sports bra and gym shorts are appropriate.
What parts of my body will be massaged?
During the intake process, the practitioner will ask if there are any areas you want focused on or avoided. If you don’t like an area worked on, you do not need to justify it beyond informing your practitioner. A typical full-body session includes work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, shoulders, glutes, and face/jaw.
Target areas services are not a full body massage.
Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable?
Yes. It is very important that you complete the intake forms honestly and inform the practitioner of any health problems or medications 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. Certain medical conditions require approval from your doctor prior to receiving services.
Do you use oil?
No. We use a professional brand of crème or lotion.
Did you go to school for this?
Yes. Our schooling involved 500+ hours of clinical and hands on classes. Upon completion of an accredited program we must submit an application to the Massage Board of Massachusetts for licensure. Besides annual renewal we must maintain professional liability insurance through one of the national massage organizations.
Will massage help my headaches?
There are many causes of headaches. If the headache is muscular massage can be effective. Regular massage can prevent the buildup of muscle tension and help prevent the headaches.
Can I get a massage post-surgery?
Ask your doctor for permission for clearance to receive massage during your first follow up. Post-surgery massage can help reduce swelling, inflammation and increase the speed of healing in scar tissue.
Will massage help my foot pain?
Massage will help identify what muscle imbalances are causing the foot pain. Reflexology massage on the foot will address specific “reflex” points and energy pathways.
How will I feel after the massage or bodywork session?
Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches & pains developed from tension or 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. It is recommended that you drink plenty of water following your massage.