Massage Therapy FAQs
Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
Your massage 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.
Who will perform the massage or bodywork?
Your massage will be done by a professional certified therapeutic massage therapist, registered and licensed in the state of Colorado. All of our therapists have received the necessary training to meet ALL requirements for the state of Colorado.
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. Many people prefer to keep their panties or briefs on during a massage, while others prefer to be completely nude. It's up to you. If your problem areas are your lower back, hips, buttocks, or groin, tight-fitting underwear can sometimes get in the way of massage work, but a thong for women or briefs for men should be adequate. You should undress to your level of comfort. You will be properly draped during the entire session.
Will the therapist be present when I disrobe?
The therapist will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet or towel.
Will I be covered during the session?
You will be properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed.
What parts of my body will be massaged?
You and your therapist will discuss the desired outcome of your session. This will determine which parts of your body require massage. A typical full body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders. You will not be touched on or near your genitals (male or female) or breasts (female).
What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
It depends on the techniques used. Many massage therapists use a form of Swedish massage, which is often a baseline for therapists. 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. Often, a light oil or lotion is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. The oil also helps hydrate 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. Ask your therapist about the methods he or she uses.
How long will the session last?
The average full-body massage or bodywork session 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. Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session.
What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?
Make yourself comfortable. Your therapist will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm). Many people just close their eyes and completely relax. Others like to talk during their session. Feel free to ask your therapist questions about massage and bodywork in general or about the particular technique you are receiving.
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. To decrease aches and soreness it is recommended that you drink plenty of water 24 hours prior to your massage. Also, since toxins are released from your soft tissues during a massage, it is recommended you drink plenty of water following your massage.
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 is 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, your therapist asks general health questions. It is very important that you inform your therapist 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 prior to any session. Your therapist may require a recommendation or approval from your doctor.
Am I supposed to tip my massage therapist?
If you get a massage at a spa or hotel, a 15% to 20% tip is standard if you were pleased with the services. At Inspired Balance tips are appreciated but not required. Referring a friend to Inspired Balance is also another great way to show your satisfaction or appreciation.
The pressure isn’t deep enough, but I don’t want to insult the massage therapist’s technique. What should I do?
Feel free to communicate openly with your massage therapist. Keep in mind however that it’s a myth that massage therapy has to hurt to be effective. Some of the most effective types of massage therapy are gentle and do not involve deep pressure or pain. In fact, too much pressure can cause muscles to seize up. Deep tissue massage and sports massage are just some of the types of massage that require more feedback. The massage therapist often works on deeper layers of muscle and will want to ensure that the pressure is not uncomfortable. A good rule of thumb is: on a scale of one to 10 where one is no pain and 10 is extremely painful, the pressure should always be seven or less. Communication is the key to a great massage.
Be sure to speak up if:
• the room is too hot or too cold
• you experience pain
• you have any questions related to the massage
• there's anything you forgot to mention during the consultation
I'm self-conscious about a certain part of my body and don't want the massage therapist to see me. What can I do?
People are self-conscious for various reasons. Some of the more common concerns are:
• I'm overweight.
• I have excessive hair growth on my body.
• I've got acne on my face or back.
• My feet are ugly.
• I have scars.
Being self-conscious should never keep you from seeking health care, whether it's visiting your doctor or seeing a massage therapist. If you're self-conscious about a certain part of your body, you can ask the massage therapist to avoid that area. Your massage therapist will not judge you but if you are uncomfortable, communicate your concerns with your therapist. Also it is important to remember to provide complete and accurate information on your health history form, so that the massage therapist is aware of any precautions or contraindications.