Your Guide to Massage Therapy Frequently Asked Questions

Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soothing music may be played to help you relax. You will lie on a table under sheets especially designed for your comfort.

Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, it is entirely up to you what you want to wear. You should undress to your level of comfort. You will be properly draped under a sheet & light blanket during the entire session. Most people leave their underwear on unless you are needing glute work.

No. The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet and or blanket.

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

You and the practitioner will discuss the desired outcome of your session. This will determine which parts of your body require massage. A typical full-body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders.

It depends on the techniques used. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax specific areas and relieve areas of muscular tension. Often, a light oil or lotion is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. You should communicate immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken. Massage and bodywork are most effective when your body is not resisting.

The average full-body massage or bodywork session lasts approximately one hour. Many people prefer a 60- to 90-minute session & a 120 minute session for optimal relaxation. Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session. Hot tubs, steam baths and saunas can assist in the relaxation process.

Prior to the massage, feel free to ask the practitioner any questions about the technique or the upcoming session. During the massage, make yourself comfortable. The practitioner will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm). Many people just close their eyes and completely relax, communicating if/when they need more or less pressure, another blanket, or anything else relevant to the session. If you have any questions regarding the session or about the particular technique you are receiving, feel free to ask the practitioner.

Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days.

Yes. It's important that, before you begin your session, the practitioner asks general health questions. It is very important that you inform the practitioner of any health problems or medications you are taking. If you are under a doctor's care, it is strongly advised that you receive a written recommendation for massage or bodywork prior to any session. Your practitioner may require a recommendation or approval from your doctor.

No, each massage session is private and one-on-one. We strive to create an environment of comfort and safety for our customers, which means we do not have shared studio spaces.

While we’re located in the multipurpose Loretto building, all of our studio spaces are strictly by appointment only, and you can rest assured that you'll be the only customer (or pair, if you’re receiving a couples massage) in the room at the time of your session.