New to massage? Here's what to expect <3
First time getting a massage? Welcome! It’s great to have you here :)
Having a private practice means I get to set my own rules and standards, which is awesome for me (and hopefully my clients), but it means that the work I do (or the space I practice out of) might not fit your expectations of what you’ve seen/heard about massage. This post is intended for clients who are new to massage, or new to my practice, and want to have more information about what to expect in a session.
The Space
The massage studio is located in a small MIL section of a larger house. There is a separate entrance at the back of the larger house, which leads directly into the studio. The studio contains the massage space and a small bathroom. There are two windows that can be open in a session, and a HEPA filter that will be on for the duration of the session. The room also contains a space heater and a fan, which can help regulate temperature in the room.
Because of the limited indoor space, unfortunately there isn’t a lobby room or indoor area to wait in if you arrive early. However, there’s a small garden at the front of the house with a picnic table and outdoor sofa that you’re welcome to enjoy, or just let me know you’re there early! I’ll do my best to get you in ASAP.
once you arrive
On your first visit, you’ll be greeted with a short intake form (hooray, paperwork!) and a document that goes over consent options for massage. Once you have filled them out, we’ll review them together so I can gather any additional information that may be important for the massage. We’ll also go over the massage plan and set some expectations/goals for that day’s session. This is a great time to talk about areas you want addressed, places you don’t want touched or massaged, or what kind of pressure or styles of massage you want to try for that session.
Once we agree on a plan, I’ll step out of the studio to give you privacy to get as undressed as feels comfortable and get under the sheets to lie down and get comfy. Once you’re ready, I’ll knock on the door and come in to start the massage.
during the massage:
We’ll put on some tunes and start the massage! While I love getting to talk about the work I’m doing or answer any questions you may have (like what specific part of the body I’m working on, why does it feel like that, how does that connect to the area where I’m feeling pain, etc.), this is your time to connect with your body. You can close your eyes and space out, make weird noises during intense moments, ask questions, make jokes, or share what’s coming up for you. While I’m not a licensed mental health therapist, I recognize that big emotions can often come up during bodywork, and it’s okay to acknowledge that. There is Kleenex close by if it’s needed!
If at any point you feel uncomfortable with the amount of pressure, technique, or area that I’m working on, let me know and I’ll immediately adjust to accomodate that request. Even if consent was obtained at the beginning of the massage, you can revoke it at any time during the session if you feel uncomfortable or want to change something about the massage.
after the massage:
Once the massage is over, I’ll remove any bolstering (cushions or extra pillows used to support the body and make it more comfy during the massage) and step out of the room so you can get dressed again. You may feel a little woozy, or gooey, or sleepy, or refreshed, or energized, etc. This is often referred to as “massage brain” - your nervous system is deeply relaxed, and it can take some time to shift back to feeling more coherent. Depending on the type of work we did, you might also feel a little sore in some places, like you just worked out a muscle group. Be careful getting off the table and getting dressed, but try moving the areas we worked on, and notice any changes to the quality of movement or your range of motion!
Once you are dressed, I’ll come back in the room and we can discuss how you’re feeling and set up a plan for post-massage self-care. We will also figure out payment before you leave (more on payment and pricing options can be found here).
That’s generally the flow! Please note that this whole process (the intake/check-in, massage time on the table, and the check-out time) are included in the time scheduled. If you have booked a 90 minute massage, these essential conversation pieces will be part of that time. While I do strive to give every client as much hands-on time as possible, it’s good to keep in mind that some intakes may take a little longer (for example, if we’re working with a new injury or condition we might do a few extra assessment steps in order to ensure the best care possible in your treatment).