Why should I get a massage in my home?
First of all, you’re saving time and gas. Second, you won’t have to drive in Phoenix-area traffic. Third, after the massage you won’t have to get fully dressed and drive home - you can kick back and relax! Fourth, because you’ll be in familiar surroundings it will be easier for you to relax.
What do I need to consider if I’m thinking about receiving a massage in my home?
The smallest area I can work in is about 7 feet wide by 11 feet long. This allows room for my massage table (30x72 inches) and enough space around it for me to work comfortably. If you’re short on space, it's easy to temporarily move a small piece of furniture to make room.
If there will be other people in your home when you receive your massage, a quiet den or bedroom is generally best. Otherwise, a living room area works just as well. And, since I generally play quiet, relaxing music during your massage, think about where your nearest CD player is located.
I’ve heard that people with certain types of physical ailments should avoid massage therapy. Is that true?
There are certain ailments and conditions, usually referred to as "contraindications", where Massage Therapy should be avoided. Untreated high blood-pressure, contagious diseases, and fever are a few of the ailments that fall into this category. To see a complete list of contraindications, visit my
More Page. If you’re not sure, please consult your doctor or health care professional for advice.
How far in advance do I need to book a session?
So we can schedule your session at a day and time that works for both of us, the more advance notice I have the better. One week notice is usually enough, but sometimes I'm able to schedule clients the same day or the next day, depending on my schedule.
What should I do prior to my massage?
You don’t have to be “squeaky clean” to get a professional massage, but customary personal hygiene is greatly appreciated by all Massage Therapists, myself included. Because you’ll be lying face down on your stomach for at least part of your massage, avoid excessive eating just prior to your session. Also, think about where in your body you’re experiencing discomfort or pain so we can talk about it just prior to your massage.
I’ve never had a massage before, and I’m a little concerned about nudity and how much of my body will be exposed. How does that work?
This is a common concern for people who’ve never had a professional massage.
Before we begin, I leave the room to wash my hands, allowing you time to privately disrobe and get on the massage table under the sheet. Most people who’ve been receiving massage for a long time undress completely, but if you’re more comfortable leaving your underwear on, that’s okay. State rules and regulations require that people receiving Massage Therapy be draped (covered) with a sheet or towel at all times during a massage. As I work, I uncover just the areas I’m working on at that time (an arm, a leg, the back, etc). At no time during the massage are any private areas touched or exposed.
When your massage is complete, I leave the room again to wash my hands, allowing you time to get off the table and dress in private.
Do I need to talk during my massage, or is it okay to remain silent?
One of the great things about getting a massage is that it’s YOUR TIME. If you feel like talking, feel free to talk as much or as little as you want, but don’t feel obligated to talk. I recommend you remain silent for at least some of the time to help you concentrate on the work being done and to help you achieve a deeper state of relaxation.
What should I do if I feel uncomfortable at some point during my massage?
If you start to feel cold during your massage, I’ll cover you with a blanket. If I’m using too much (or not enough) pressure, I’ll adjust it to your tolerance level. If you get thirsty, I’ll get you a drink of water. If you start to feel light-headed (rare), I’ll temporarily stop working and help ground you. Whatever the reason, just let me know so I can do whatever is necessary to remedy the situation and put you at ease.
What should I do after my massage?
RELAX AND DRINK WATER! You’ve invested in yourself by scheduling and receiving a massage, so don’t be in a hurry to do much of anything for the rest of the day. And, because massage flushes toxins from soft tissue into your blood stream (primarily lactic acid), drink lots of water to help remove them from your system.
Will I be sore after my massage, and if so, how long will the soreness last?
This varies depending on the type of massage you receive and how much deep work you’ve had in the past.
If you’re receiving a Swedish Massage, you should feel little or no soreness.
If you’ve never had any kind of deep work before and you request a Deep-Tissue or Trigger-Point Massage, it’s possible you’ll feel some soreness after your massage. This is completely normal, and the soreness will usually go away in 2-3 days. If you’ve had deep work in the past, you know that muscles develop a tolerance to that type of work, and soreness is usually minimal.
Do I need to leave a tip, and if so, how much?
In the world of Massage Therapy, tipping is optional. I have regular clients that tip me on a regular basis and others that don’t tip at all. If you choose to tip, 10-20% is customary. I’m sincerely happy and grateful for the opportunity to work on you whether you tip or not!
I’m on a rather “tight” budget. Is there any way I can get a discount?
I offer discounts when I work on more than one person per visit. So, if you can get a friend, neighbor, or family member to get a massage during my visit, I’ll give everyone a discounted price.
Something else you might consider is getting a small group of people together for a “Spa Night”, “Ladies Night Out”, or “Massage Party”. I’ve worked with several different groups of women over the years who have incorporated Massage Therapy into other spa-related services (Facials, Nails, Cosmetics, etc) and even a potluck lunch or dinner to create a “full-service” wellness and relaxation event!
