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.  

I want regular massage but it's expensive.  How can I save?

There are certainly places that offer less expensive massages but dollar for dollar people get a better value at PRESSURE.  I take the time to ensure that you get exactly what you need/want from a session.  Those who are experienced with massage know how frustrating it is to pay for a massage that didn't provide any results.
Saving is easy if you are willing to invest in regular services.  Check out the Specials page to see what events and promotions are being offered.  Become a member and get unlimited discounts for a small fee.  Open an account and share the savings with your family or another group.  

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 come in for a one hour massage at 12PM I'll be ready to leave at 1PM, right? 

I do not start timing your massage until first touch.  This means you get a full hour of massage.  When booking a one hour massage you should plan to be in the office for 75-90 minutes.  It's best to arrive at least 5 minutes before your scheduled appointment begins (10 minutes for 1st timers).  You will need to time to undress/dress, and discuss your session before and after. Keep this in mind so you don't end up being rushed after the massage is over.    

Do I have to use Online Booking? 

No.  Feel free to call 201-659-1900 to schedule your appointments but please understand that I cannot answer calls while working with clients.  I will always return calls as quickly as possible.  I've chosen to use online booking to alleviate the frustration of phone tag but it's not a requirement for making an appointment.   

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.  In a spa, tipping is standard practice and expected.  Tipping is also appropriate when your therapist is employed by another individual and does not recieve 100% of your payment.  
At PRESSURE tips are appreciated but never expected or required.   But please do tell your friends and family about your wonderful massage.    

What Is Aromatherapy?   Click Here to read my detailed article.