Smiling Heart Healing Arts

FAQ​

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For all questions on styles/modalities as well as what to expect from a session with me, please see the Styles page. 

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Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?

Your massage or bodywork 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.

 

If it's a home visit, the massage table will be set up in a quiet, warm space.

 

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How can I prepare for my session?

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• Please shower the day of your session.

• If you're having signs or symptoms of the flu, or if you have anything contagious, please cancel your appointment.

• Schedule enough time before your session to arrive safely, and also after your session to allow yourself time to ground and safely arrive at your next destination.

Must I be completely undressed?

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Your level of disrobing depends upon your comfort level and is entirely your choice.

 

The purpose of disrobing is a function of the purpose and methods used in a massage modality. There are many modalities that can suit your unique needs.

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Your modesty and dignity are of the utmost importance. You will be properly draped during the entire session with only the area of the body being worked on, exposed. Some areas will never be exposed as they are private and will be kept covered.

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All areas to be worked on will be discussed prior to the session.

Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?

The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, relax on the table, and cover yourself with a sheet. For more on what to expect during a session see this page. 

What parts of my body will be massaged?

A typical full-body Swedish massage session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders, with option to work on the belly.

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All areas to be worked on will be discussed prior to the session.

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For more on what to expect in a session and to read a description of different styles see this page. 

What will the massage or bodywork feel like?

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The answer to this question is that it depends on the style/modality of massage.

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A relaxing Swedish massage is often a baseline for clients. 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. 

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On the other hand, a shiatsu session will look very different as it uses light to firm pressure on specific points applied in a methodical, rhythmic fashion. The rhythm of the pressure allows one to fall into a relaxed meditation. The specific points follow the energy pathways (meridians) along the entire body. 

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Communicate immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken.

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Massage and bodywork are most effective when you are able to relax and breathe deeply. 

 

For more on what to expect in a session and to read a description of different styles see this page. 

What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?

Prior to the massage, feel free to ask the practitioner any questions about the technique or the upcoming session. During the massage, make yourself comfortable. The practitioner will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as turning over).

 

Many people just close their eyes and completely relax, communicating if/when they need more or less pressure, another blanket, or anything else relevant to the session. If you have any questions regarding the session or about the particular technique you are receiving, feel free to ask.

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.

What are the possible benefits of massage and bodywork?

• Release of chronic tension

• Reduction of pain

• Improvement in circulation

• Increase in flexibility

• Reduction of fatigue & stress

• Promoting faster healing of injuries

• Improvement of posture

• Reduction in blood pressure

• Promoting better sleep

• Improvement in concentration

• Reduction in anxiety

• An overall sense of well-being

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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 asks 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. Depending on the condition, approval from your doctor may be required.