Beyond Relaxation: A Guide to Tailored Massage

A Guide to Your Personalized Session

Every body is unique — which is why every massage I give is fully customized to your individual needs, goals, and comfort level. Whether you’re coming in for deep tissue work, relaxation, pain-specific relief, or mobility-focused therapy, your session will be designed around you.

Here’s a quick guide to help you know what to expect:

Arrive a Little Early

Plan to arrive about 10–15 minutes before your scheduled session. This gives you time to check in, settle down, breathe, and prepare your body and mind for the time ahead. For your first session with me, you'll need to complete a health history form, & look over and sign a client disclaimer. This time is also a great opportunity to discuss any concerns or ask any questions you might have!

Communication is Key

Your preferences matter. Before we begin, I’ll ask about your areas of tension, pain, or mobility challenges — and your goals for the session. Throughout treatment, feel free to speak up if you’d like more or less pressure, if you’d like to focus on a certain area, or if something doesn’t feel quite right. Your comfort and results are the top priority.

Being Aware of Massage Contraindications

Some medical conditions may make massage unsafe. It’s important to consult your doctor if you have any significant health issues or if you’ve began taking new any medications, before receiving a massage. Common reasons to avoid massage include; fever, flu like symptoms, contagious skin infections, and certain recent surgeries ie. heart surgery, DVT, cosmetic implants, etc. These conditions are contraindicated, meaning that massage therapy could potentially worsen your health or delay recovery. Because of this, as your massage therapist I may have reschedule your session if the treatment poses any health risks to you. I always prioritize client safety and if you have any questions about possible contraindications please feel free to reach out before booking an appointment.

Undressing & Comfort

You are always in control of what you choose to wear or not wear during your massage. I receive a lot of questions from people wondering if they should take their undergarments off I usually respond by saying… Many clients feel comfortable fully undressing, which can allow for thorough work — including the glutes, internal rotators, and hamstring attachments if you’d like those area addressed. This is very normal in massage therapy, though it is never required. You’ll always be properly draped with a sheet or blanket, and your comfort level will always be respected.

For certain sessions, like mobility assessments or movement-based therapy, clothing will stay on so we can focus on gait assessment, function, and neuromuscular work for pain-specific relief. Being full clothed in these kinds of sessions ie. a sports bra or tank top with shorts allows for transitioning into treatment positions more quickly and easily, making the most of our time together.

What to Expect

From the start of your session, I’ll walk you through what we’re doing and why. Whether we’re targeting deeper muscle tissue, improving joint mobility, or simply helping your nervous system downshift, you’ll always know the focus of the work. All sessions can incorporate integrative techniques and tools, such as cups, grastoning techniques, hot stones/packs/towels, or cool stones

Speak Up & Feel Empowered

Massage is most effective when you feel safe, comfortable, and empowered to guide your own experience. If something feels amazing — say so. If something feels uncomfortable, please let me know right away so adjustments can be made and so notes can be made for future sessions!

Takeaway

This is your time. Your massage is about helping you move better, feel better, and live better. By showing up a little early, communicating your needs, and staying open throughout the process, you’ll get the most benefit out of your session.