What to Expect with a Therapeutic Massage at Loving Hearts Wellness

Where will my massage session take place?
Your massage 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.

Who will perform the massage?
Your session will be conducted by a trained professional who has received proper training, often in a variety of techniques. Some massage therapists are licensed by the state, while others are locally regulated.

Must I be completely undressed?
Most massage techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothes; however, you may decide what amount of clothing you prefer to wear for your own comfort.

Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
The therapist will leave the room while you 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.

What parts of my body will be massaged?
You and the therapist will discuss 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.

Will lubricants be used?
A light oil or lotion may be used to permit your muscles to be worked on without causing excessive friction to the skin.

What will the massage feel like?
It depends on the techniques used. In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with broad, flowing strokes which will help to 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 communicate immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken. Massage is most effective when your body is not resisting.

Are there different kinds of massage?
There are numerous types of massage; various techniques utilize different strokes, including basic rubbing strokes, rocking movement, posture and movement reeducation, application of pressure to specific points, etc. Ask the therapist about the methods he or she uses.

How long will the session last?
The average full-body massage session lasts approximately one hour. A half-hour appointment only allows time for a partial massage session, such as neck and shoulders, or legs and feet. Many people prefer a one to two hour session for optimal relaxation. Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session. Hot tubs, steam baths, and saunas can assist in the relaxation process.

What should I do during the massage session?
Make yourself comfortable. The therapist 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. Others like to talk during their massage. Feel free to ask the therapist questions about massage in general or about the particular technique you are receiving.

Are there any medical conditions that would make massage inadvisable?
The therapist will ask some general health questions. You should inform him/her of any health problems or medications you are taking. A release from your doctor may be required.

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.

What are the benefits of massage?
Massage 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 muscle tissue & reduce blood pressure.

What is Swedish Massage Therapy?
Swedish Massage Therapy is a combination of ancient Asian massage arts and a Western understanding of anatomy and physiology. Swedish massage varies in pressure from light feathery strokes that push gently on the major muscle groups to deeper strokes with firm rolling pressure. It reduces muscle tension, enhances skin condition, improves circulation, relieves pain and promotes relaxation. In-home massage is also offered.

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