How early should I arrive for my massage?
If this is your first time coming for a massage, you will need to fill out an intake form. If you choose to print and complete the intake form in advance, please arrive for your massage about 5 minutes ahead of time. If you will need to fill out our form preceding your massage, please arrive 10 – 15 minutes early.
What do I do during a massage treatment?
Make yourself comfortable. If I need you to adjust your position, I will either move you or will ask you to move what is needed. Otherwise, change your position anytime to make yourself more comfortable.
Many people close their eyes and relax completely during a session; others prefer to talk. It’s up to you. It is your massage, and whatever feels natural to you is the best way to relax. Do not hesitate to ask questions at any time.
How long will a massage treatment last?
The average full-body massage treatment lasts approximately one hour. A half-hour appointment only allows time for a partial massage session, such as neck and shoulders, back or legs and feet. Many people prefer a 60 to 90-minute session for optimal relaxation. Many clients opt for a two-hour massage as well. Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session.
Will the massage hurt?
This depends on the type of massage and the depth of the strokes. A light, relaxing massage that doesn’t probe very deep into the muscles, shouldn’t hurt. With that being said, there is a ‘feels good’ hurt and an ‘ouch, stop it’ hurt. A good massage, even a really deep tissue massage, should always stay in the ‘feels good’ hurt range.
Pain can be an indication that the muscle is possibly injured or inflamed and pressure should be adjusted. Also, pain can cause you to tighten up and negate the relaxing effects of the massage. The most effective and deepest massage always works with your body’s natural response, not against it.
Do I have to cover myself with a sheet or towel?
This is known as draping and the answer is YES! Once you are undressed and on the table under the drape, I will only uncover the part of your body being worked on. The genitals (women and men) and breasts (women) will not be uncovered. If I am going to work on a woman’s abdomen, a second towel or sheet will be used to cover the breasts so the main sheet or towel can be moved to expose the abdomen.
How often should I get a massage?
“Some is better than none.”
What does that mean? Well, it varies from person to person. If you are just looking for some occasional relaxation, then a session every 3-6 weeks may be fine for you. However, if you are looking to address a specific condition, then it is recommended to go more frequently at first and then slowly taper down to a maintenance schedule. Sometimes more frequent 30-minute sessions can be effective until your goals are met and a maintenance schedule is in place. The frequency of sessions should be discussed after your treatment when I have a better hands-on understanding of your particular muscular issues.
Can I talk during my session?
Sure, if you’d like to talk go right ahead. The important thing to remember is that this treatment is all about you relaxing and enjoying the experience. Many therapists discourage talking in hopes that you will relax, let your mind float free and enter a state of massage bliss. In many instances, people may feel more relaxed starting off talking, and as the massage progresses, enter quiet states of relaxation. I try to limit my talking to only questions about your massage and/or your body. However, If you spark up a conversation with me, I will not ignore you!
The important issue here is that there are times when you need to speak up. If I am doing anything to make you uncomfortable, you should let me know immediately. Also, let me know if you get too warm or too cold, if the room is too bright, or if the pressure needs to be changed (lighter or deeper). If something is not working for you – speak up! It’s OK!
Do I have to listen to nature sounds or flutes during my massage?
No. (Not that there’s anything wrong with that.)
While I will often play slower, quieter, ‘new age’ type music, you can choose to have different music or no music at all. Studies have shown that music at under 60 beats-per-minute has a calming, relaxing effect on the body and therefore can enhance your experience.
However, while this may be true, any music you like to listen to while you relax can be listened to while you get a massage. If it relaxes you and you enjoy it at home, why wouldn’t it do the same during your treatment? I can play any type of music you desire!
How will I feel after my massage treatment?
Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience a significant decrease or freedom from long-term aches and pains. Many feel a little slowed down for a short period and then notice an increase of energy, heightened awareness and increased productivity which can last for days. If you received a deep massage, you may be slightly sore the next day – much like a good workout at the gym. Sometimes a hot shower or a soak in the tub can ease this soreness. After your session, you should increase your water intake a bit. Just a glass or two more than normal is usually fine. This helps keep your body’s tissues hydrated and healthy.
How many sessions will I need?
Honestly, it’s hard to say. Every person is unique and every condition is different to each person. It may take one session or it may take several. You and I will be able to talk more specifically about this after your first session and I have had a chance to evaluate your body’s tissues.
When should I not get a massage?
In my opinion, there are few conditions which would prevent you from enjoying a massage. You should not book a massage if you have a fever, cold/flu, or contagious skin infection. That’s it.
There are many other conditions in which I may need to adapt my techniques (i.e. arthritis or osteoporosis) or avoid an area completely (i.e. cuts or burns). With some conditions, it is a good idea to get an approval from your physician before you receive massage (cancer, certain heart conditions, pregnancy). This doesn’t mean you can’t get a massage. But it’s always better to err on the
I really need massage therapy, but just can’t afford it.
Don’t let the stress of money hold you back from getting what you need. Call me direct and we can work something out. I am always willing to work with people on a sliding scale for your massage needs. I am also a firm believer in the barter system. We can work it out!!!
What if I get aroused during my massage?
Sometimes a physiological response happens. Yet, most men avoid massage for fear this will happen to them. Or, they get a massage but are unable to relax because of this fear. But there is no reason to be embarrassed.
Sometimes men get an erection during a non-sexual, therapeutic, full body massage. Touch administered to any part of the body can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which can result in a partial or complete erection.
I am an educated, professional massage therapist who understands this to be a physiological response. If you are still concerned, I recommend wearing more fitted underwear (briefs or boxer briefs) which provide more support than traditional boxers.
Note: If I feel that the session has turned sexual for you, male or female, I have the right to stop the session to clarify your intent, and may decide to end the session immediately.
What My Clients Say
Jen is a highly professional, intuitive, and knowledgeable therapist. I’ve been her client for more than five years and can give her my highest recommendation.
Jen gives a restorative massage that rejoins soul with body. Our 40's-year-old "children" who live in California all say she is the best they have experienced. They need specific athletic issues addressed; I just need standard deep tissue.
Jen has been providing me massage therapy to address a disc issue and its resultant sciatic nerve pain this fall. She is very knowledgeable about the anatomy and mechanics of motion, and exceptionally skilled at working through pain and tightness from different directions. I have improved steadily under her care, and will continue to seek her therapeutic massage even when I am back in regular "work-out" mode on my bike and in the pool.
Jenn gives by far the best massage ever. She is so experienced and knowledgable, I always trust that she will give my body exactly what it needs. She is strong and has the best techniques. When I'm thinking of treating myself to a massage, I can't bring myself to go anywhere else since I know it won't be as good.
I've been seeing Jen for the past 5-6 years and I love her. There are so many things I appreciate, from her warm welcome to the beautiful surroundings to the responsive therapy. Jen has an excellent understanding of anatomy, so she has this innate ability to find and work out problem areas. Her deep tissue and Thai massages are both amazing. Make an appointment with her--you won't regret it!
I would recommend anyone to go see Jen for therapeutic massage...she is very knowledgeable and very in tune with her clients...I would see her once a week if I could.
