Massage For Womens Health
Barbara Weinstock NCTM
908-334-7200
Massage FAQ
I have set aside a specific amount of time for your massage and likely have another client scheduled next. Please call in advance if you know you will be late and understand that your session will end at the scheduled time. Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early for your appointment to enable you to fill out an intake form, use the restroom and discuss what type of massage you would like to receive. I will tailor a massage specifically to fit your needs. Some people are looking for relaxation and some want sore muscles to be worked on, most need a little of both.
It’s also best if you can shower before you come in for your massage. This prevents body oils and dirt from being spread about your body during your session. Some people like to go home and shower afterwards and some like to have the lubricants soak into their bodies for a while before showering.
Where will my massage take place?
Your massage will take place in a warm comfortable, quiet room. Soft music may be played to help you relax. You will lie on a massage table especially designed for your comfort. The table has a heating pad, clean sheets and blankets.
What should I do during my massage session?
Make yourself comfortable and relax. I will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm). It's best to just close your eyes and completely relax (some people even fall asleep). Feel free to ask me about massage or about the particular technique you are receiving. If you become uncomfortable and need to change positions or move around feel free to do so.
Must I be completely undressed?
Most massage techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, you may decide what amount of clothing you prefer to wear for your own comfort. I will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table and cover yourself with a clean sheet and blanket. You will always be properly draped during your session. Only the area being worked on will be exposed. At no time will your breasts, genitals or gluteal crease be exposed.
What parts of my body will be massaged?
Together we will discuss the desired outcome of your session. This will determine which parts of your body require massage. A typical full body massage session will include work on your head, neck, shoulders, arms, hands, legs and back. At no time will your breasts, genitals or gluteal crease be massaged. Sometimes work on the abdominal or gluteal muscles will be needed and this will be discussed with you before your session.
Will lubricant be used?
Most of the time a light oil, lotion or cream will be used to permit your muscles to be worked on without causing excessive friction to the skin. The lubricants used should hydrate the skin and be readily absorbed. Occasionally deeper work is done without a lubricant; this will always be discussed before the session. Please notify me if you have a preference to the type of lubricant used or if you have allergies.
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 that will help to calm your nervous system and ease muscular tension. Various techniques utilize different strokes, including basic rubbing strokes, rocking movement, posture and movement reeducation, application of pressure to specific points, stretches and more. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax and relieve specific areas of muscular tension. You should feel free to communicate with me immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken. Massage is most effective when your body is not resisting.
But I’m ticklish!
Certain areas can be more ticklish than others. I will adjust the touch to what is comfortable for you. Sometimes a little more pressure alleviates the “ticklish” feeling. Relaxation helps too. An area too ticklish to be touched will be avoided.
How will I feel after my massage 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. Since toxins are released from your soft tissues after a massage, it is recommended you drink plenty of water afterward.
After a massage most people don’t feel like jumping up and engaging in activity, they prefer to rest quietly, shower or take a nap. Schedule errands early and plan your day accordingly so you can get the most out of your session.