This is my first massage. What should I expect?
What is a massage?
Massage is the manipulation of soft tissue by stroking, kneading, rubbing or rocking. Massage is typically done with the bare hands with the aid of a lotion or oil to avoid pain or cause injury. A therapist will typically avoid areas of the skin with rashes, tumors or areas that are extremely sensitive. The breast (women) and genitals are never massaged and requesting any type of sexual or illicit act will terminate your session immediately. If this is your first massage, make sure you explain any additional boundaries or issues you may not want your therapist to cross.
Who benefits from a massage?
Anyone who has stress in their lives; sore shoulders, neck, knees, feet; anyone with back pain, sciatica, or leg pain; athletes; pregnant women; new parents, both moms and dads - parenthood is very stressful; doctors; lawyers; garbage collectors; housewives; computer technicians; and anyone in between. Everyone can benefit from a therapeutic massage.
Can a child have a massage?
From the very young to the very old, everyone can benefit from terapeutic massage. However, Point of Origin requires that anyone under the age of 18 years old must have a parent or guardian present during all aspects of the massage session.
What are the benefits of massage?
-
Relaxes the body -
Reduces chronic pain -
Increases blood and lymph circulation -
Loosens tightmuscles -
Stretches connective tissue -
Aids in emliniation of metabolic waste -
Improves muscle and skin tone -
Relieves muscle cramps and spasms -
Speeds recovery from injury -
Relieves headaches (even migraines) -
Reduces swelling -
Increases flexibility and range of motion -
Alleviates mental stress -
Reduces anxiety -
Slows respiration -
Promotes better sleep -
And many more...
Where will the massage take place?
Your massage will take place in a quiet, peaceful, healing atmosphere on a table specially designed for massage. Soft music will be played to aid your relaxation.
What type of clothing should I wear for my massage?
Therapeutic massage is typically performed with the client undressed; however, if you are at all uncomfortable with being undressed you should wear loose fitting comfortable clothing. Regardless of your state of undress, all areas not being worked on will be draped at all times.
Will I be covered during my massage?
All areas of your body not being worked on will be draped or covered. Your modesty and privacy will always be protected. At no time will your breasts (women) or genitals be exposed.
What parts of my body will be massaged?
You and your therapist will discuss your condition and the desired outcome of your session. This will help in determining what areas of your body will be massaged. A typical full body massage will include massaging your head, neck, back, shoulders, arms, hands, legs, knees and feet. At no time will your breasts (women) or genitals be touched or massaged.
What should I do during my massage?
Relax and be comfortable. Many people just close their eyes and completely relax. Other people prefer to talk through their sessions. Your therapist will likely ask for feedback during specific points in your session to better meet your needs. Typically, there is no need to assist your therapist. She will let you know when it is time for you to turn over.
How will I feel after my massage?
Most people feel very relaxed after a massage. Some, relieved of a chronic pain, feel exhilarated and free. People who have massage regularly typically have more energy and a better awareness of their bodies and how they use them.
What should I do after my massage?
Your therapist will give you specific instructions; however, typically, you should increase your water intake for 24 hours after a massage. Water will help your kidneys flush out the metabolic waste and toxins from your system. It is preferable, if you can take a few hours after your massage, to rest and relax.
How often should I have massage?
Most people get massage twice per month. Depending on your condition, your therapist may recommend from one massage per week to once per month.
Can I have massage while I am pregnant?
Yes, most pregnant women can benefit from therapeutic massage. If you have had any complications or contraindications you will be required to obtain written approval for massage therapy from your doctor or midwife. You should verify that your therapist has a national certification in pregnancy massage.
Can a massage therapist diagnose or treat illnesses?
Massage practitioners do not diagnose illnesses, disease, or any physical or mental disorder, nor do they prescribe medical or chiropractic treatment or pharmaceuticals. Furthermore, massage is not a substitute for professional medical or chiropractic heath care.
Do I need to see my provider before having a massage?
If you have any health concers or questions about the safety of massage therapy, please see your healthcare provider before seeing a massage therapist. Massage is not a substitute for addressing your health care concerns with your medical professional.
What types of massage do you specialize in?
At Point of Origin, our specialities include Neuromuscular Massage Therapy; Pregnancy and Postpartum Massage; and Pain Management and Injury Recovery. After a thorough health history, we utilize a customized approach to your appointment which may integrate several different modalities or types of massage. There is no need to request a specific type of massage. You can find more information about all the types of massage in the Treatments section under the Home page.