What To Expect During a Massage or Bodywork Session

Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?

Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quite room at the back of our Wellness Center.  Soft music may be played to help you relax.  You will lie on a table especially designed with your comfort in mind.

Who will perform my massage or bodywork?

Your massage will be conducted by one of our licensed, insured Massage Therapists.  Our Therapists at the Wellness Center have received proper training in a variety of techniques and modalities. Although no two massages are exactly alike, you may request a certain technique or modality.  You may also request one of our therapists specifically.

Must I be completely undressed?

Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, you may decide on the amount of clothing you prefer to wear based on your comfort level. You will be properly draped throughout the session. 

Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?

After discussing the session details, goals, and concerns the therapist will leave the room to allow for you to disrobe, get relaxed onto the table, and get covered with the clean sheet and blanket that are provided - knocking before entering the room again.

Will I be covered during the session?

You will be properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable.  Only the area being worked on by the therapist will be exposed.

What parts of my body will be massaged?

You and the practitioner will discuss the desired goals and outcome of the session prior to beginning the treatment.  This will determine the areas to be worked on.  A typical full-body massage session will include work on your  back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck and shoulders.  You will not be touched on or near intimate parts such as the genitals or breasts.

What will the massage feel like?

This can vary depending on the technique or modality used.  In a general Swedish Massage, your session will begin with long, broad, flowing strokes that will help to calm your nervous system and ease exterior muscle tension.  Gradually, the strokes will become deeper, working levels deep to the superficial muscles.  You should communicate with your therapist in regard to pressure.  If at any moment the pressure is deeper than desired or than what is comfortable, you should let your therapist know so that they may take another approach.  Massage is best and most effective when your body is relaxed and not in a state of resistance.

Are there different kinds of Massage and Bodywork?

Yes!  There are numerous modalities and techniques for massage and bodywork.  Different modalities utilize different strokes, including basic rubbing strokes such as effluerage and petrissage,  rocking movements, posture and movement reeducation, application of pressure to specific points, stretching and traction techniques, and more.  Ask the practitioner about the methods she is using if you have any questions or concerns.  We love to educate and inform our clients about massage, especially the massage that we are applying to that client.

How long will the session last?

The duration of the session will be established and set when the appointment is booked and before the treatment begins.  At Rimrock Wellness Center, we offer half-hour, hour long, and 90 minute massage sessions.  The typical full-body massage generally takes approximately an hour.  A half-hour typically provides only enough time for focus work on smaller areas of concerns, such as the neck, shoulders, and arms, the back, or the legs and feet.  Many people prefer a 60 minute to a 90 minute massage for optimal relaxation, providing the best results.

What should I do during the massage?

Make yourself comfortable.  The therapist will either gently move you or tell you what is needed, such as 'lifting your arm' or 'rolling over'.  Many people like to close their eyes, relax into the table and enjoy the session.  Others enjoy talking through the session.  Feel free to ask questions about the session, techniques used, or about massage and bodywork in general.

How will I feel after the massage or bodywork session?

Most people feel very relaxed.  Some experience freedom from long term aches and pains.  After an initial period of feeling  slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity.  It is recommended you drink plenty of water following a massage treatment.

What are the benefits of massage?

Massage can help to relieve chronic muscle pain and tension brought on from overuse, injuries, or stress, increased joint flexibility, improvement in circulation, promote faster healing of injured muscles, improve posture, and reduced blood pressure. Massage has also been shown to promote better sleep, improve concentration, reduce anxiety, and create an overall sense of well-being.

Are there any medical conditions that would make massage inadvisable?

Yes.  That is why we require a short, but thorough health intake form prior to your first massage with us.  It is important that you notify the therapist of any health conditions, concerns, or medications that are being taken.  If you are under medical supervision of any kind, we advise that you receive a written recommendation for massage care prior to scheduling an appointment.

  • Compliments of Taelour Wagler, LMT - Information provided by Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals (ABMP).

 

 

Source: www.abmp.com