Q: When preparing to get a massage, do I need to be completely nude?


A: No, you do not have to be completely nude, you may prefer to retain your underpants. We recommend that you be totally comfortable with your massage experience. Know also that you can be completely nude because you are under draping at all times and only the parts of you that are being massaged at the time are exposed.

Q: Are there any massages for which I do not have to remove clothing?


A: Yes, you may be interested in Reflexology, Vitaflex Technique, Sports massage, Cranio-Sacral, Reiki, or chair massage as none requires more than the removal of jewelry, belt, and shoes. Click the Our Services button to obtain more information.

Q: I have heard that it is important to drink water after a massage. Is this true?
A: Actually you should come to a massage hydrated with at least 16oz of water already consumed and yes afterward too. The reason for this is the body holds on to toxins, defined as metabolic waste and chemicals consumed from what we eat, drink, and breathe. Massage releases those toxins from the muscle fibers into the extra cellular matrix comprised mostly of water. If you are dehydrated those toxins have very little liquid in which to float away to be eliminated through the digestive tract or urinary system which may force the toxins to return to the cells of your muscles. Toxins that are retained can cause muscle pain, nausea, dizziness, lightheadedness, and sometimes faint feelings. If you experience these feelings after a massage, sit down and drink water immediately and you will feel better quite quickly.

Q: What are the benefits of massage?
A: Numerous research studies conducted in the United States, Europe, and Asia have documented that far beyond simply “feeling good” massage therapy has an impressive range of physical, mental, and emotional benefits.

PHYSICAL BENEFITS OF MASSAGE
• Physically relaxes the body
• Calms the nervous system
• Lowers blood pressure
• Reduces heart rate
• Slow respiration
• Loosens tight muscles
• Stretches connective tissue
• Reduces chronic pain
• Improves skin tone
• Increases blood and lymph circulation
• Speeds the removal of metabolic waste
• Increases red blood cell count
• Relieves tired and aching muscles
• Stimulates the release of endorphins
• Improves muscle tone
• Relieves cramps
• Increases flexibility and range of motion
• Promotes deeper and more effective breathing
• Speeds recovery of injuries and illnesses
• Strengthens the immune system
• Reduces swelling and scaring
• Improves posture
• Reduces tension headaches
• Increases tissue metabolism
• Decreases muscular deterioration

MENTAL BENEFITS OF MASSAGE
• Reduces mental stress
• Promotes better sleep
• Calms a bad temper
• Induces mental relaxation
• Improves concentration

EMOTIONAL BENEFITS OF MASSAGE
• Reduces anxiety
• Enhances self image
• Provides feelings of well being
• Promotes greater creative expression

Q: Are there any medical conditions that would restrict me from receiving massage?

A: Yes, if you are currently being treated for cancer, you will need your doctor’s approval of massage in writing before we can give you full contact massage. You may not receive massage if you have uncontrolled high blood pressure, untreated diabetes, or infectious skin diseases like impetigo or shingles. If you have any condition you are not sure about check with your doctor before seeking massage or exercise.

Q: Can I get a massage when I have a head cold or sinus infection?
A: Yes you may have massage while having a cold or a sinus infection and as a result of massage your symptoms may likely increase and become more intense, though for a shorter period of time as massage will increase the reactions of the immune system to fight more effectively.

Q: Does massage therapy hurt?
A: Yes, it can hurt depending on two things; what type of massage you expect to receive and the amount of pressure that the therapist applies. You must have good communication with your therapist before and during your massage. Let the therapist know if the pain is intolerable. Deep Tissue massage is one that can hurt moderately but is usually not extreme and has a component of pleasure as well because of the release of endorphins to counteract the pain. Thus the expression “hurt so good”.

Q: What is energetic massage?
A: Energetic massage is an entire modality of massages that utilizes focus and intention to facilitate the healing mechanisms of the energetic body or life force within all living things. Generally they range from little to no touch up to small micro movements and solid holds. Most are fully clothed. See Our Services section for a complete listing with descriptions.

Q: Someone told me that I should tip a massage therapist, is that true?
A: Gratuity is most certainly customary and greatly appreciated but not required as it is a free expression of your pleasure with the services that you have received. The typical tip ranges from 15% to 20% of the service cost.