Thrive Massage Therapy LLC
Quality massage therapy to help you Thrive!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
Must I be completely undressed?
Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
Will I be covered during the session?
What parts of my body will be massaged?
What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
Are there different kinds of massage and bodywork?
What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?
How will I feel after the massage or bodywork session?
What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?
Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable?

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

Must I be completely undressed?
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 and all privates remain covered during the entire session.

Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and get cozy in between sheets, with a towel or blanket on top for warmth and comfort.

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 will be exposed.

What parts of my body will be massaged?
A typical full-body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders.  More detailed injury work may include, at your comfort level, work behind the knee, in the armpit, and connections in the groin area.  All modesty is always fully protected and respected. 

What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
I use a combination of many styles and techniques of massage to custom-tailor each massage session for what you need that day.  Generally, I start with flowing strokes that will help calm your nervous system and relax exterior muscle tension. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax and target specific areas and relieve areas of muscular tension. Sacred Earth Botanicals Massage Cream is used on your skin to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. The plant-based cream works like an oil but soaks in like a lotion, helping to hydrate your skin. Please 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 and you are relaxed.

Are there different kinds of massage and bodywork?
There are numerous types of massage and bodywork; various techniques utilize different strokes, including basic massage strokes, rocking movement, posture and movement re-education, application of pressure to specific points, and more. We can discuss which methods may be most appropriate for you.

What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?
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. I let my clients lead the conversation at each session. If you want to talk or be completely silent, we roll with whatever you want for that session. If you have any questions regarding the session or about the particular technique you are receiving, feel free to ask.

How will I feel after the massage or bodywork session?
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 or sore, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days or weeks.

What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?
Massage and bodywork can help release chronic muscular tension and pain, improve circulation, increase joint flexibility, reduce mental and physical fatigue and stress, promote faster healing of injured muscular tissue, improve posture, and reduce blood pressure. Massage and bodywork is also known 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 or bodywork inadvisable?
Yes. That's why it's imperative that, before we 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. While it is not the case for most people, some people may be under a doctor's care for a chronic or acute condition. If this is the case for you, it is strongly advised that you receive a written recommendation for massage or bodywork prior to any session. Depending on the condition, approval and guidance from your doctor may be required.