What are the benefits of Massage Therapy?
Massage has numerous benefits, here are the top 3 and why they're important. 
1.  Stress Relief-When we experience stress it triggers our 'fight or flight' instinct. Our body systems are placed on alert. The heart rate is elevated, adrenalin is flowing. Constant stress means your body has to work harder just to function normally. The natural defense and healing systems in our bodies become less and less efficient which leaves us susceptible to illness and injury.

2.  Increased Circulation - The body's ability to deliver oxygen and eliminate waste is critical to optimal health. Massage increases circulation and releases toxins passively. When toxins and waste products build up in the blood stream we may experience weight gain, low energy, lackluster appearance, and in extreme cases, disease. Additonally, lymph fluid is only circulated through muscle movement. The manipulation of of muscle tissue during a massage stimulates lymph flow, alleviating congestion and helping the immune system to function at its best.

3.  Release of Muscle Tension- A rope doesn't tear when it's slack. The same principle applies with your muscles. Engaging in physical activity with tightened muscles increases your chance of suffering an injury. Blood should flow freely throught our muscle tissue to carry oxygen and nutrients in, and waste out. When muscles get too tight blood stops flowing, oxygen can't get in, waste accumulates, and pain eventually follows.

What is the difference between a Swedish Massage and a Therapeutic Massage?

A Swedish Massage is the classic standard type of massage that is ideal for relaxation and relief of minor muscle tension.  The Therapeutic Massage is for clients who need work that is targeted to reducing chronic pain in a specific area, want deeper muscle work, or just like the fact that our Therapeutic Massage typically includes Aromatherapy and Hot Stones.   

How often should I get a massage? 

The answer varies based on your lifestyle.  As with any healthy activity, you get the best results with regularity.  Some basic recommendations follow:

Quarterly - Everyone, regardless of stress level or amount of physical activity should try to have a massage at least once every three months.  Humans need positive and caring touch for optimal well-being.  Massage is a great way to meet that need. 

Monthly - Massage is needed at least once every month to experience and maintain its cumulative benefits.  A massage once a month helps both client and therapist build on the results of previous sessions.  Too much time between sessions means constantly starting over instead of making progress toward getting the results you want.     

Bi-Weekly - A massage once every two weeks is maintenance for 'type A' personalities.  People who have stressful jobs and/or a high level of physical activity.  Bi-weekly massage can also be helpful during times of added stress. (Divorce, death in family, moving, new baby, etc.). 

Weekly - Weekly massage is necessary for anyone seeking treatment from chronic pain.  Once that pain is alleviated then massage can be sought monthly or as needed.  Weekly massage is also beneficial for people in high stress professions, especially those in authority positions, fitness and healing professionals, and serious athletes.  Weekly massages allow respite from constantly elevated stress levels and help to prevent downtime due to illness or injury.  

Some Massage Therapists don't charge extra for mobile services.  Why should I book with you? 

When I provide service to a client's home or office it saves them time, but it costs me time.  A one hour mobile visit can take 2 or more hours when you include travel and set up.  Many inexperienced massage therapists (including me at first!) don't take into account that the lower rate they charge has to be divided by 2 or 3 hours of their time.
For clients who's primary concern is saving time and getting quality service, the additional cost is still a bargain.   

Do I have to be naked during my massage?

Clients undress to the level of their comfort.  You are covered during the massage and special draping is used to protect your privacy.  Clients suffering from low back pain or sciatica should keep in mind that gluteal muscles can be worked more effectively if you are nude, but the choice is always yours. 

Can Massage be painful? 

Sometimes, yes.  If your massage therapist is working on a knot or tight muscle you are going to feel some discomfort.  It's important to communicate with your therapist to find the balance between working the muscle effectively and working too deep.  If a client feels pain and tenses the body then the massage is counterproductive.  Don't assume that certain techniques are supposed to hurt.  Be sure to speak up if you aren't comfortable.  It is also not unusual to feel sore a day or two after a massage.  

If I book a one hour massage at 12PM we'll be finished at 1PM, right? 

I typically arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled start time.  There is some set up required for mobile visits.  There is one full hour of massage time and then a few minutes to breakdown and pack up equipment.  You should expect me to be in your home or office for about 75-90 minutes.  Most clients work or carry on with whatever they were doing when I arrived.  After the session they continue about their day and I usually let myself out. 

Should I leave a tip after my massage? 

Tipping policies vary based on where you are getting a massage and who is doing the work.  While I do not refuse gratuities, they are certainly not required and I do not expect them.  If you are happy with the service, please tell your friends and family.