HOMEOSTASIS
ho·me·o·sta·sis
/ˌhōmēəˈstāsəs/
noun
noun: homeostasis; plural noun: homeostases; noun: homoeostasis; plural noun: homoeostases
the process by which the body continually adjusts to changes in order to maintain chemical, physiological, and structural balance.
FREEDOM TO SPEAK UP
I like to let all my clients know that they have control of their session. Communication is key and I invite all my clients to let me know if anything during our session needs adjustment. This can range from (but is not limited to) the temperature in the room or of the massage table, draping concerns, the depth of pressure, any discomfort being experienced; I will even change the music if requested.
I empower you to use your voice so that we can develop a deeper understanding of one another and can create a beneficial and safe Client/Therapist relationship built on trust, respect, and healing.
FIRST-TIME CLIENTS
What should I expect from my first session?
First off, expect to be enthusiastically greeted by the welcoming committee (dogs: Godric & Triffid). If there are allergies or concerns about the dogs, please let me know ahead of time so I can adequately prepare for your session. The boys are not permitted in the treatment room while in session, so they shouldn't interfere in any way.
There will be some paperwork (liability waiver, intake form, etc.) to fill out, but it normally only takes a few minutes. Once that is complete we will proceed with a detailed intake regarding your goals for our session, and for future treatment plans. This is where we discuss specific areas of pain and plan our session accordingly. We can also make any adjustments to music, table temperature, or lighting at this time.
I'll leave the room to give you some privacy while you disrobe to your comfort level, and situate yourself on the table. I will knock before re-entering the room and beginning our session.
When our session is over, I will leave the room to allow you time to get off the table and gather your belongings. I will meet you in the front sitting area and we will discuss our session's findings and plan for future massages if necessary/requested. This is also when payment will be collected for services rendered.
How far do I disrobe?
To your comfort. Massage can be adapted to meet you and your comfort level. Sheets/blankets will be used at all times during our session to maintain modesty and professional boundaries, and many areas of the body can be worked through a drape. If at any point during the session you feel that the draping is inadequate, or you feel at all uncomfortable, please let me know immediately so we can adjust and remedy the situation.
How should I prepare for my first treatment?
If possible, arriving for a massage freshly bathed and manicured/pedicured is ideal. Wear comfortable and easy clothing and bring water if at all possible. If you have long hair, pulling it back into a ponytail or up into a top-knot tend to work best. Make up is not necessary or necessarily recommended for massage.
Do you talk during a massage?
I take my cues from my clients. If you want to chat, we can chat, if you want it to be quiet, we can absolutely accommodate that too. I do check in with my clients to make sure that they are comfortable throughout the massage, but I understand wanting to unplug and turn off for a while. Whichever way, it's all okay.
MASSAGE MODALITIES
Swedish Massage
Swedish Massage was created by Per Henrik Ling in the 1830's. Over time it has become one of the most popular and recognized styles of massage. This modality is usually very fluid with long strokes, gentle to medium pressure, and percussive techniques such as kneading, tapping, and friction. Swedish Massage is usually associated with its relaxation capabilities and can be a great way to ease stress (physically and emotionally), decrease physical tension, and stimulate both blood circulation and the Central Nervous System (CNS).
Therapeutic Massage
Therapeutic Massage can be described as "Intuitive Massage". During therapeutic massage sessions pressure may vary between Swedish and Deep Tissue and more active/passive stretching may occur. This massage style can be fluid or may be more specific depending on the needs and requests of the client.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage is a type of massage that addresses deep muscle tissue or fascia. While the techniques can be similar to Swedish Massage, the pressure will be more firm and there may be slower and prolonged strokes used to release the muscles.
UPGRADES
DYNAMIC HOT STONE MASSAGE
Hot stone therapy is an easy and wonderful upgrade to any massage service. The heat of the stones/towels helps to melt the stress away while relaxing tense muscles and promoting a deeper sense of relaxation and peace. Hot stone therapy can help increase circulation and energy flow, while easing stress on the Therapist by making deeper pressure more accessible with less effort.
CUPPING
Cupping is a fantastic therapy that offers many great benefits. These include (but are not limited to) increased circulation, boosted immunity, improved lymphatic system functionality, decreased pain/inflammation, and relief from muscle hypertonicity. The cup is used to create suction when placed on the skin. This suction decompresses the tissues, creating space for blood and other fluids to flow more freely. It is a non-invasive form of therapy that should not hurt and has time and time again proven highly beneficial for many of my clients. Marks usually do not last more than a few days to a week, if there are any at all.
Cupping is not recommended for anyone taking blood thinners or with heart conditions.