Frequently Asked Questions

This is actually one of the most important parts of your session. You might be surprised how a childhood injury or a surgery from 20 years ago still affects how your body moves today!

Listing all health concerns and medications—including over-the-counter ones—allows me to adapt the massage to your specific needs. While massage is safe for most people, there are certain conditions where specific techniques should be avoided or modified (contraindicated). Open communication ensures your session is not only effective but, most importantly, safe. I’ll always ask follow-up questions to make sure we're choosing the right approach for you.

Protecting your privacy is my top priority. You should always undress to your comfort level.  

While most people do undress completely for a full-body massage, the most important thing is that you can relax. If being fully undressed makes you uncomfortable, you won't get the full benefit of the session—so feel free to leave on whatever makes you feel at ease. You will always undress and dress in total privacy, and I will always knock before entering the room. 

If this is your first visit, we’ll start with some quick intake paperwork and chat about your goals to make a plan for the session. I’ll then show you to the massage room where you can undress to your comfort level and get settled on the table in total privacy. (This is also a great time to use the restroom if you haven't already!)

I will always knock before entering the room. At the end of your massage, I’ll step out so you can dress in privacy again. Afterward, we’ll meet back in the lobby to see how you're feeling and, if you're ready, get your next "tune-up" on the calendar!

Of course, weekly would be ideal! But realistically, it depends on your goals.

If you’re looking for general relaxation or a 'treat yourself' moment, once every 4–6 weeks is a wonderful rhythm. If we’re addressing an injury or chronic issue, coming in more frequently at first is usually best—then taper down to a maintenance schedule that works for you.

I’ll always offer my professional recommendation, but the frequency and duration are entirely up to you. Sometimes a longer session once a month is the right fix; other times, shorter, more frequent 'tune-ups' are the way to go.

A Swedish massage is the perfect starting point! It uses long, gliding strokes designed specifically to ease tension, improve circulation, and help you fully relax without feeling overwhelmed. It’s a great way to 'introduce' your muscles to bodywork. That said, if you have a specific knot or a nagging injury you’re worried about, we can always blend in some focused work—just let me know what’s bothering you! 

Make yourself comfortable! If I need to move you, I'll handle the adjustment or ask for your help. Otherwise, feel free to shift or stretch whenever you need to. I’ll check in about pressure and temperature but please speak up if you’re cold/warm, want less/more pressure, need a tissue or bathroom break. Some clients drift off to a quiet space, and others prefer to chat through-out their session. Doing what is most natural for you will enhance your massage experience.

Please don’t worry about it! I've had many clients apologize for not shaving, but it honestly doesn’t matter; my focus is your muscles. I work with clients of all kinds—many of whom have never shaved their legs—and it has zero impact on the quality of the massage. Unless your hair is literally made of wire, it won't bother me a bit! Come as you are; a little stubble won't scare me!

Ummm, doesn't everyone? 

No! You can listen to whatever music helps you relax. I use Tidal and am always exploring new sounds for the studio. I’ll usually have something playing when you arrive, but if you have a preference—or if you’d prefer total silence—just let me know.

There are studies showing that slower music (under 60 BPM) has a calming effect on the nervous system. However, I’m a firm believer that whatever music makes you feel at ease at home will have the same benefit during your massage.

(Don't worry...I'll keep the whales on stand-by.)

Everyone's experience is unique, and you'll likely feel a mix of things. Most clients describe a deep sense of calm and relief from chronic aches. It’s common to feel a bit 'spacey' immediately after, often followed by a surge in energy and focus.

If we focused on specific injuries or deep tension, some light soreness is normal for a day or two. Be sure to drink extra water afterward—it’s the best way to keep your tissues hydrated and help your body process the work we did.

Absolutely—and I encourage it! Your glutes are some of the hardest working muscles in your body, and they often hold a lot of tension. To ensure your privacy is respected and you feel comfortable, I'll work your glutes through the sheet; your tush will never be exposed. 

NOTE: A reputable massage therapist should always check in with you before doing glute work, and the choice to include or skip it is entirely up to you. My advice? Anticipate the butt massage!! 

Great question! I accept Cash, Venmo, and Zelle. In an effort to keep sessions affordable and avoid raising fees, I've moved away from credit card and HSA processing. Please note that personal checks are also not accepted. 

Tipping is never expected, though it is always appreciated. If you do choose to tip, cash is preferred. This ensures that 100% of your gesture goes directly toward the service. Thank you for your kindness! 

Absolutely! Whether you’re coming in after a hike or a workout, don’t worry about a little sweat. Between sports massage events and working at farmer's markets, I’m very used to active, sweaty skin. While a shower before your appointment is always a lovely courtesy, please don't stress if you're coming straight from the heat. I always have fresh wipes available in the studio for you to use before we begin. 

Don’t sweat it! It’s easy for feet to pick up a little dust, especially in flip-flop season. I provide fresh wipes in the studio so you can quickly refresh your feet before hopping on the table. If you'd prefer, I’m also happy to work on the feet through the sheet or wear gloves—just let me know what makes you most comfortable! 

Yes. You should never get a massage if you have a fever, cold, flu, COVID-19, or a contagious skin infection. Massage can actually worsen your symptoms by overtaxing your system, and it also poses a risk to me and my other clients. I always prefer we err on the side of caution—if you’re unsure whether you should reschedule, just ask!

Additionally, there are times when you may need a doctor’s clearance before your session (such as recent surgeries, cancer treatments, pregnancy, or certain heart conditions). This doesn’t mean you can’t get a massage—it just means we want to be 100% sure it’s safe for you to receive one.

It’s a completely different way to experience bodywork! When you book a Studio Outdoor Massage, the table is set up on a covered deck surrounded by privacy curtains. You’ll slip into a robe and slippers inside the studio, then walk out and get settled on the table in private. Once you're ready, I’ll open the curtains facing the water so you can enjoy the sounds of life on the channel—boats, birds, and the occasional neighborhood hum.

If you prefer to be right at the Water’s Edge, we can set the table up down on the bulkhead. Just keep in mind you may be in full sun, and because it's an open area, total privacy can’t be guaranteed. For Mobile Outdoor Massages: We can set up wherever you like! Just be sure you’re comfortable with your surroundings, as outdoor privacy depends entirely on the location.

Today, most of us prefer the term Massage Therapist or Practitioner. To be honest, the term "masseuse" is generally icky to those of us in the field. It carries a historical association with the "massage parlor" industry and "happy endings," and we've worked very hard to distance ourselves from those sexual connotations. Using "Massage Therapist" reinforces that I'm a trained healthcare professional here to help your body heal and relax!