Hands on Therapy for Pain Relief and Relaxation in Manchester New Hampshire
What to expect During your Massage Appointment
Where Will My Massage Take Place?
My massage therapy office is located in a quiet professional park in Manchester, NH. Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a warm, comfortable, clean and quiet room. Soft music may be played to help you relax. You will lie on a table especially designed for your comfort.
Who Will Perform the Massage or Bodywork?
All Massage Therapists practicing in New Hampshire must be licensed by the state. I have completed completed over 750 hours of training to meet the requirements of initial licensing. I also passed the NCBTMB, and am a Certified Member of the ABMP and am constantly learning via continuing education classes.
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 your modesty respected during the entire session.
Will the Massage Therapist Be Present When I Disrobe?
I will leave the room and give you time to undress, relax onto the table and cover yourself with a clean sheet.
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. Your modesty will be respected at all times.
What Parts of My Body Will Be Massaged?
We will begin appointment by discussing the desired outcome of your session. This will determine which parts of your body require massage. A typical full body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders. You will not be touched on or near your genitals (male or female) or breasts (female).
What Will the Massage Feel Like?
It really depends on the techniques used and what your treatment goals are. I use a form of Swedish massage called Kriya Massage as the foundation for all of my massage and bodywork. I use a light oil that allows your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. The oil also helps nourish and hydrate your skin. Massage therapy should never be painful and therapy is most effective when your body is not resisting. In a general relaxation style massage your session may start with broad, flowing strokes that calm your nervous system and relax exterior muscle tension. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax specific areas and relieve areas of muscular tension. You should always immediately communicate to me if you feel any discomfort so that we can change our approach.
Are There Different Kinds of Massage and Bodywork?
There are numerous types of massage and bodywork and every therapist's approach is different. Various techniques utilize different strokes, including basic rubbing strokes, rocking movement, posture and movement re-education, application of pressure to specific points, and more. Please feel free to talk to me about the methods I choose to use.
How Long Will the Session Last?
The average full-body massage or bodywork session lasts approximately one hour. A half-hour appointment only allows time for a partial massage session, such as neck and shoulders, back or legs and feet. Many people prefer a 60- to 90-minute session for optimal relaxation. Always allow some time for relaxation after your session if you can.
What Should I Do During the Massage or Bodywork Session?
Before your appointment begins, you can ask me any questions about the technique or the upcoming session. During your massage, make yourself comfortable. I 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 only if and 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 me.
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. After deeper tissue therapy some clients may feel a little sore the next day, much like you would experienced after good workout, and typically resolves in a day or two at the most. If you experience discomfort, please be sure to inform me for future sessions so that we can make adjustments as necessary.
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, you complete a health history form and I ask general health questions. It is very important that you inform me 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. I may require a recommendation or approval from your doctor.
