If your question isn't answered here, let me know at sevapnw@gmail.com.
A Swedish massage is a wonderful first-time massage experience. It uses long, gliding strokes to ease tension and help you relax. If 75-minutes seems daunting, try the 60-minute. Want more? Opt for 90-minutes!
If this is your 1st visit, you'll complete some intake paperwork, we'll chat about your goals, and make a plan for that massage. You'll be shown to the treatment room where you'll undress to your comfort level and get comfortable on the massage table in privacy. This is a good time to use the restroom if you haven't already. I'll always knock before entering the room. At the end of your massage, I'll step out so you can get up and dress in privacy. When you're dressed, please come back out to the lobby so we can chat about your massage and book your next appointment!
This is one of the most important factors of your massage. Open communication allows you to enjoy your sessions so much more! We'll review your health history and ask follow-up questions to determine if massage is right for you/your conditions. It's important to list all health concerns and medications – even over the counter - so the therapist can adapt the session to your specific needs. There are some conditions where massage is contraindicated. There are also some types of massage that should be avoided for certain conditions.
Protecting your privacy is extremely important to me. You should undress to your comfort level. For a full body massage, most people do tend to get completely undressed. However, if being naked under the sheet makes you uncomfortable and unable to relax, you’re not getting the most benefit out of your session. You will always dress/undress and get on/off the table in privacy. I will always knock before coming in.
Make yourself comfortable! If I need to adjust your position, I'll adjust or ask you to adjust. Otherwise, feel free to shift your position to make yourself more comfortable. Most folks tend to close their eyes and relax during a session; some prefer to talk. Doing what is most natural for you will enhance your massage experience.
DON'T worry about your hairy legs! Women come in and apologize to me for not shaving their legs all the time. I don't care at all. Most men don't shave their legs and I'm just as happy to work on them. So, unless your hair is razor sharp, it doesn't bother me.
Of course, weekly would be ideal! However, it really depends on your goals. If you are looking for relaxation and a treat yourself, every 4-6 weeks is wonderful. On the other hand, if you want to address a particular issue or condition, coming more often might be better - especially at first - then tapering down to a manageable maintenance schedule. I'll share recommendations but the frequency and duration will be decided by you. Sometimes you might need longer sessions less often. Other times you might benefit from shorter sessions more frequently.
Ummm, doesn't everyone? No! You can listen to whatever kind of music helps you relax. I use Spotify and am always trying new music in the studio. I'll already have music playing but if you have a preference, definitely let me know. Then again, you can always choose no music at all.
(There are studies that show quieter, slow music - typically under 60 BPM - can have a calming, effect on your body. However, I'm a firm believer that any music you find relaxing at home can have the same benefit during your massage.
Everyone will feel different. Some common side effects are feeling very relaxed, temporary relief from chronic aches and pains, feeling like you’re moving a little slower followed by increased in energy, heightened awareness, and you might even notice an uptick in productivity for a few days afterward. If you received a treatment massage you might be slightly sore for a day or two. It’s always a good idea to increase your water intake.This helps keep your body’s tissues hydrated and healthy.
Anticipate the butt massage!! Your glutes are fair game! There's a lot of tissue there that needs to be worked. But, it's your butt. Some people are uncomfortable because it's not something they usually expose to anybody. Rest assured, I'll work your glutes through the sheet so your tush is not exposed. At most, the sheet is draped in such a way that only the high, outside of your thigh is exposed. A reputable massage therapist should always ask you before doing any glute work.
Ultimately, receiving glute work or not receiving glute work is completely up to you.
Pay attention to your feet - especially in flip-flop season. Our feet pick up dirt. Take a quick peek at them as you're undressing for your massage. If they're dirty, wipe them off with a disposable wipe (I always have them available in the studio). I don't want to be spreading that dirt all over your body.
I'm also happy to wear gloves or work the feet through the sheet.
Don't worry if it's really hot outside and you're sweating. I do event sports massage, too so I'm used to sweaty skin. However, in general, it's an appreciated courtesy if you have showered or rinsed off the day of your appointment. I always have disposable wipes available for you in the studio if needed.
You should never get a massage if you have a fever, cold/flu, Covid-19, or contagious skin infection. If you're unsure whether or not you should reschedule, just ask. I'd always prefer we err on the side of caution. Massage can make your symptoms worsen, as well as posing a risk to me and my other clients. There are times when you may need a doctor's clearance before you can receive massage (recent surgeries, cancer treatments, certain heart conditions, pregnancy). This doesn’t mean you can’t get a massage - we just want to make sure it's safe for you to receive massage.
When you book a studio outdoor massage, the table is set up under a covered deck surrounded by curtains. You'll slip into a robe and slippers in the studio then walk outside and get comfortable on the table in privacy. Once you're ready, the curtains facing the water will be opened to allow you to better enjoy the sounds of life on the channel (boats, birds, laughter, the occasional mowing). If you prefer your massage at water's edge, the table can be set up down on the bulkhead - but please be aware you may be in full sun and your privacy cannot be guaranteed. If you're booking an outdoor mobile massage, just be sure you are comfortable with the surroundings - depending on where we are, your privacy can't be guaranteed.
Today, most massage therapists prefer the term massage therapist or massage practitioner. The term "masseuse" is generally icky because it's associated with "happy endings" and we work hard to remove that sexual connotation.
No. Tipping is a personal preference. At Seva Bodywork, tipping is never expected but always appreciated.
Great question! Cash is preferred, however, I also accept Venmo, Zelle, and most major credit cards (including your HSA) via square. Personal checks are not accepted. Credit card transactions are charged a processing fee that gets deducted from the amount you pay me prior to me receiving it. When you pay in cash, it helps me avoid these expensive fees.