Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome! Here are some of the most commonly asked questions to help you feel informed, safe, and prepared for your visit.

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What is massage?

Massage is the manual manipulation of soft tissues—muscles, tendons, and fascia—through techniques like kneading, pressing, and stretching to support circulation, ease tension, and reconnect body with breath. It’s one of the oldest healing modalities in the world, with roots dating as far back as 3000 BCE. Today, cultures around the world have used massage to restore balance and promote well-being—and we carry that tradition forward with care and intention.

What should I expect during a massage?

Your first visit begins with a short, thoughtful intake where we talk about your goals, preferences, and any areas of concern.

You’ll be shown where to place your things and how to get comfortable on the table. You’re welcome to undress to your comfort level—some clients leave on undergarments, others do not. You’ll always be properly draped, with only the area being worked on uncovered.

The session will be guided by your needs, with occasional check-ins to make sure the pressure and pace feel right. If anything feels too much or too little, just let your therapist know—your comfort is always honored.

Note: For sessions like Thai massage, you’ll remain fully clothed in comfortable attire.

Are there times when massage isn’t recommended?

Yes—and part of holistic care is knowing when rest or medical support might be the better medicine.

If you’re currently dealing with things like a fever, infection, recent surgery, acute injury, or flare-ups of certain chronic conditions, we may need to postpone or adjust your session.

Here are some common reasons we may need to reschedule, modify the session, or ask for your doctor’s OK:

Cold, flu, or fever
Contagious skin conditions
Blood clots or uncontrolled high blood pressure
Recent surgery or injury
Active autoimmune or inflammatory flare-ups (lupus, fibromyalgia, endometriosis, etc.)
Certain medications like blood thinners
Cancer treatment or advanced diabetes (with complications)

We also avoid working on local areas that are bruised, burned, healing, or otherwise sensitive. If you’re unsure whether massage is right for you at this time, we’re happy to talk through it or recommend a gentle alternative.

For Ashiatsu, extra care is needed due to the deep pressure used:

Ashiatsu contraindications: due to the deep pressure that can be given during this type of massage, more consideration is taken. Along with everything mentioned above, these other conditions are unsuitable:

Breast Implants within 9-12 months post surgery.
Calf, Pec, Gluteal implants (locally avoid massage).
Uncontrolled High Blood Pressure: on/off medication, unable to workout or be in heat w/o side passing out
Blood Disorders: Hemophilia (unable to clot, can cause internal bleeding); Severe Anemia
Protruding or ruptured spinal discs
Frail physique

Types of massage:
What's the difference between an integrative therapeutic, Thai, and Ashiatsu massage?

Integrative Therapeutic Massage

This is a custom blend of Eastern and Western techniques like myofascial release, Swedish strokes, Thai-style stretching, and trigger point therapy. It’s designed to relax your muscles, soothe your nervous system, and bring awareness back into your body.

Traditional Thai Massage

Thai massage is done fully clothed on a floor mat and includes rhythmic slow compressions, sen line work, and deep assisted yoga-like stretches. It’s great for improving flexibility, nervous system flow, and joint mobility.

Ashiatsu (Barefoot Massage)

Ashiatsu uses the therapist’s feet to deliver slow, gliding strokes with deep, even pressure. It’s especially beneficial for those needing deep tissue work without the sharpness of elbows or knuckles.

Intuitive Healing: What is it?

Intuitive healing is a subtle, heart-centered practice that gently helps release emotional or physical imbalances stored in the body. Using quiet presence and innate sensitivity, your therapist tunes in to what your body may be holding—and offers support to let it go.

Many clients describe it as grounding, clarifying, and deeply comforting—even if they can’t quite explain it in words.

General Policies:

We value your time and ours. These policies help us maintain a respectful, healing environment for all clients.

No call, no show: Clients who miss an appointment without notice will be charged 100% of the total service price. No exceptions.
Late Arrival: If you arrive late, your session will still end at the originally scheduled time to avoid delaying the next client. You will be charged the full session rate, regardless of reduced treatment time.
Cancellation: We kindly ask for at least 24 hours' notice to cancel or reschedule your appointment. Appointments changed or canceled with less than 24 hours’ notice may be subject to a 50% cancellation fee.
Illness & Covid-19: If you’ve recently experienced cold or flu-like symptoms, been diagnosed with COVID-19, or cared for someone who has, please reschedule your session if it falls within 7 days of exposure or illness. Your health—and that of others—comes first.
Inclement weather & Emergencies: If inclement weather happens to occur on the day of your scheduled appointment, we will courteously reschedule your appointment. Inclement/unforeseen weather is defined as any severe or harsh weather related conditions that make it unsafe or impractical to travel or commute safely. Typically, local news and authorities will also report on these conditions.

Why These Policies Matter

Regardless, of the circumstances these general policies are implemented to protect our practitioners' and keep the supportive healing services we provide equitable for all clients. Thank you for understanding.