FAQs for your massage at The Rustic Remedy
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 that can be heated.
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. Some people choose to leave underwear on and some completely undress. You should undress to your level of comfort. You will be properly and modestly draped under a sheet and a blanket during the entire session and only the area being worked on at the time is exposed. You are welcome to wear comfortable stretchy clothing as well.
Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, relax on the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet and warm blanket. You will be given plenty of time and the practitioner will knock before reentering.
Will I be covered during the session?
You will be properly and modestly draped under a sheet and blanket at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed. However, you may choose to remain fully clothed if you wish.
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. However, you can specify, for example, back and shoulders only. Gluteal and hip work is generally done over the sheet.
What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
A relaxing Swedish massage is often a baseline for clients. In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with broad, 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 specific areas and relieve areas of muscular tension. Deep tissue work is more focused on a specific problem or group of muscles. Sometimes there may be discomfort but within a comfortable threshold. We don’t work beyond the body’s natural reaction to pain as that is counterproductive. Hypoallergenic jojoba oil is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. The oil is also very nurturing for your skin. 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?
Just do your best to relax. Feel free to ask the practitioner any questions about the techniques used. Please speak up if you are experiencing pain or discomfort, need a pressure adjustment, or get too hot/cold. Many people just close their eyes and completely relax and sometimes briefly fall asleep while some people prefer to talk. Either is fine.
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. It is advised to schedule a massage on a day that is not so busy or won’t require extreme physical activity.
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 are 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. You must 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 before any session. Depending on the condition, approval from your doctor may be required.
Do you accept insurance or HSA or FSA?
We do not accept health insurance nor do we bill insurance companies for claims. We do however accept HSA and FSA but it is the client’s responsibility to check with their HR department and Physician before using these benefits to pay for massage therapy.
What measures are taken to ensure my health and safety?
We follow strict guidelines when it comes to our client’s health and safety. After every appointment, all linens, towels, and blankets are removed for laundering. An approved disinfectant is used to wipe down the massage table and face rest before clean linens and blankets are in place. All counters, door knobs, light switches, self-checkout systems, clipboards, pens, and anything else that may have come in contact are disinfected as well. As massage therapists, we practice strict personal hygiene by frequent hand washing and keeping our nails trimmed and manicured, and a change of apron/smock between every client. We will ask to reschedule your appointment if we feel under the weather and ask our clients to do the same. Massage is contraindicated with fever and could potentially worsen symptoms of illness. When in doubt, reschedule. You will not be charged for canceling.
During a session, the entry door will be locked to ensure the safety of both client and therapist when no one is available at the desk. The lobby and reception area are monitored and recorded by video surveillance.