Can you cure me/fix my problem?

The work that I do with you will support your body in healing itself.  It is my intention to support you in that process and to follow the direction of your body.  I am happy to teach you techniques that you can do at home to reduce tension and, for most clients, they will see the best results when they work on themselves in-between visits.

I think of bodywork as peeling away the layers of an onion.  It may seem that your pain has a direct cause (I slept funny and now my neck hurts), but what about that time you slammed on the brakes and almost gave yourself whiplash?  What about the many bumps and falls you have endured since birth?  What about birth?  Were you pulled out with forceps, inundated with pain-killers and numbing agents or forced through a fast C-section?  Have you had braces or a root canal?  Each little trauma affects your entire body through the fascial system (the connective tissue that gives shape and structure to your body).  I want to help you feel better.  Please be patient with yourself and me as we explore which techniques offer you the most relief.

Read about fascia at http://www.runnersworld.com/injury-treatment/understanding-your-fascia?page=single

Why don't you participate with Groupon, Amazon Local or Seize the Deal?

The work that I do is very specialized.  I attend multiple out-of-town continuing education classes each year which I pay for myself.  My prices reflect my skill level and the value of my work.  I seek clients who are looking to truly improve their quality of life.

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 during the entire session.

MyoFascial Release and CranioSacral Therapy are best done in a bathing suit (2 piece for women or sports bra/running shorts combination).

Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet and blanket.

Will I be covered during the session?
You will be properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable.  

What parts of my body will be massaged?
A typical full-body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, glutes, feet, hands, head, neck, abdomen, pects and shoulders.

What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
Manual Lymph Drainage is a light touch and generally very relaxing. 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.

Are there different kinds of massage and bodywork?
There are numerous types of massage and bodywork; various techniques utilize different strokes, including basic rubbing 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. 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, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days. Since toxins are released from your soft tissues during a massage, it is recommended you drink plenty of water following your massage.  

Sometimes, though, people experience a healing crisis.  This is a natural process that occurs as your body releases old injuries and trauma.  You may feel worse before you feel better because your body is completing the traumatic experience as it moves on from your tissues.  Listen to your body's requests for more water and rest and allow yourself to safely release emotions associated with your experience.  Above all, focus on the hopeful message that your body is giving you:  you can release the trauma and pain and move on to a more balanced life.

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 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. Depending on the condition, approval from your doctor may be required.