What to expect from your massage.

• What is therapeutic massage? Massage is an organized system of movements that manipulates soft tissue. The object is to bring about the natural healing capacity of the body. When particular areas of the body are properly manipulated, increased function occurs. The result is an enhanced sense of well being, clarity of mind, and an overall feeling of relaxation.
• What can massage do for me? Massage is an excellent form of relaxation and healing that can:
  - relieve stress and anxiety
  - improve energy and alertness
  - release chronic tension and pain in muscles
  - increase flexibility in the joints.
• What can I expect to happen during my massage session? I am dedicated to providing massage therapies for the purpose of relaxation and well being within a comfortable and professional setting. Great care and attention is given when assessing a client’s needs and making sure the client feels comfortable with the massage process. The process will be explained to you in detail; then I will leave the room both before and after your massage to give you plenty of privacy to get on and off the massage table.
• What do I wear during the massage session? It is very important that you are comfortable during the massage session. If you think you would be more comfortable wearing shorts and a light shirt, then that is what you should wear. Most people wear shorts or nothing at all during a massage. You will be lying between two sheets at all times and only the body parts being massaged will be uncovered. Therapeutic massage is definitely “safe touch” and NOT sexual in nature.
• What type of massage should I ask for? That all depends on you. The best thing is to fill out the questionnaire and talk to me about any problem areas you have. On the services page, you will see the types of massage that I am qualified to perform.
• What can I do best to increase my relaxation during a massage? I like to have soothing background music for my clients during a massage. I have a number of CDs that I bring with me. Some clients prefer their own music. In all cases, music should have a calming effect and should not be too loud. You should also try to put any personal problems or concerns you have aside during the massage. Massage is a part of overall good mental health and this is a time to think positively and to concentrate on the fact that you are taking good care of yourself.
• Do we talk during a massage? This is YOUR massage. Some clients feel uncomfortable with long silent periods; others prefer to relax their minds as well as their bodies. My personal feeling is that you should attempt to relax as much as possible. I urge my clients to try and take this time for themselves. If you are uncomfortable with silence, or if you have any questions or concerns during you massage, by all means, please let me know.
• What should I do after my massage? Immediately after a massage, I urge my clients to relax as long as they can to increase the benefits of the massage. Depending upon your personal schedule, you may want to have your massage at a time of day when you do not need to return to your daily activities for a few hours. Also, massage releases many toxins that are captured in tight muscles. It is important that you drink 8-10 glasses of water in the day following your massage.
• What kinds of oil do you use? I make several blends of oils and I will explain each of these to you before your massage. Different oils have different effects upon your mood and the muscles. You may choose from among my oils or, if you prefer, you may supply your own oil.
• Will it hurt? I do not believe that a massage should hurt and do my best to apply proper techniques that will release tight muscles without causing pain. I may occasionally ask you if you feel the need for more pressure or if what I am doing is effective or causing pain. At any point in the massage, please feel free to express your concerns. This is YOUR massage.
• What do I need to have ready? I bring my own table (or chair), complete with sheets, a blanket, music, and oils. You need to have an area that is approximately 10 feet long with about a 6 foot wide area that I can use for my table and move from side to side. Depending upon your family situation, you may prefer a bedroom or a family room. My table is light enough to carry up a flight of stairs if that is necessary. You may prefer to turn off your phone in that area.
• What is an "Arthur Massage?" After telling many of my clients that they have lots of options for their massage, they will often say, "I want an Arthur Massage." While I am flattered by this, I know that my massage techniques are guided by what seems to be most effective with my clients. Assuming that my client is healthy and has no physical limitations, I like to begin with the client face down. I ask them to take a deep breath and I begin with a simple body massage. This not only relaxes the client, but it also helps me to assess any areas of special need. I like to ask the client early on, if the pressure I am using is good for them so that I can adapt if it will make their experience more enjoyable. I work first on the feet and the back of the legs. Many people have very tight leg muscles which will affect their back. Then I like to move to the back as this is where most clients need considerable attention. I use a number of techniques throughout this part of the massage to relax muscles and release tension. I then move to the head and neck area. After working on the back, many clients find this part, one of the most relaxing.
  I then ask the client to take several deep breathes and to turn over slowly. Modesty is always observed. I then work on the front of the legs, the arms, and complete the massage by stretching the neck muscles and working on the facial muscles. At the end of the massage, I always want my clients to take their time getting off the table. I want them all to feel that they should allow their bodies time to receive all the benefits of their massage.