HealthE 4 Life Massage

You will be properly draped at all times to keep
you warm and comfortable. Only the area being
worked on will be exposed.

You and the practitioner 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).

A light oil or lotion may 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.

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 exterior muscle
tension. As your body unwinds, pressure will gradually be increased to relax and relieve specific
areas of muscular tension. You should communicate with your practitioner 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.

My last massage left me aching for days or I got sick afterward, does this always happen?

No, it doesn't. However, it does happen on occasion. First of all, if you feel pain or that the level of pressure is too much, speak up. This is your time, your money, you are in charge. Never feel intimidated by a massage therapist, we are nurturing, caring beings that want to help you, not hurt you.

Secondly, when toxins get trapped in the body and fascia becomes restricted, crystals build up in the muscle tissue. If you have ever seen a crystal under a microscope, you know that they look very sharp. When you break down these crystals during massage you may feel what I call "crunchies" and may encounter some mild pain. Massage helps to dislodge these toxic crystals. These toxins are then transfered along the body until they can get to a place to be excreted (sweat, urine...). During their transit, the immune system identifies these toxins as a threat and will send in white blood cells to attack. This is why it is very, very important to drink a lot of water after a massage. If you don't, the toxins may not have a fluid system to hitch a ride on and won't be able to exit your body.

If you have already been exposed to a cold or flu, massage will speed up the process, you'll get it quicker but you will probably be over it quicker too.

Remember to drink lots of water if you do feel achy or sick after a massage to encourage the body to flush itself.

There are numerous types of massage and bodywork.
Various techniques utilize different strokes,including basic rubbing strokes, rocking movement,
posture and movement reeducation, application of pressure to specific points, and more.
Ask the practitioner about the methods she uses.

The average full-body massage or bodywork session lasts approximately one hour. A half-hour
appointment only allows time for a partial massage session, for instance the neck and shoulders,
back, or legs and feet. Many people prefer a sixty to-ninty-minute session for optimal relaxation.
Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session. Hot tubs, steam baths, and saunas can
assist in the relaxation process.

Make yourself comfortable. The practitioner 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 the practitioner questions
about massage and bodywork in general or about the particular technique you are receiving.

Your session will be conducted by a professional who has received proper training, often in a
variety of techniques. Some massage and bodywork practitioners are licensed by the state, while
others are locally regulated. Although no two massages are exactly alike, you may request a certain
technique or modality. You may also request your preference as to a male or female therapist.

Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed;
however, you may decide what amount of clothing you prefer to wear for your own comfort. You
will be properly draped during the session.

The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself
with a clean sheet, blanket & towel.

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. Since toxins are released from your soft tissues during a massage, it is recommended
you drink plenty of water afterward.

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 are 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, the practitioner ask general
health questions. It is very important that you inform the practitioner 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. Many practitioners
may require a recommendation or approval from your doctor.