FAQs
Do you take walk-in clients?
Yes we take walk-in clients. However, if everyone is working already, you must wait.
Do you take appointments?
Yes we take appointments. Please read more about appointments here.
What should I do to prepare for my session?
- If at all possible, we suggest taking a hot shower before you get here. It improves circulation and helps the muscles relax much faster.
- Wear loose clothing that's easy to take on and off.
- Allow enough travel time to make sure you get here on time. You don't want to feel rushed right before you're engaging in a relaxing activity.
- Arrive with an empty stomach.
- Leave your problems at the door. This is your chance to get away from everything and remain in the present.
- Turn off or silence your cell phone.
- We will always ask where you feel tense so we can focus on that area more than others. If you ever had any major injuries or surgeries, let us know that too.
Can I bring my own oil or lotion to use?
Of course, you are free to bring your own oil or lotion. If your skin is very sensitive, we recommend bringing your own hypoallergenic lotion. The exception to this is working with John. He works over a towel and does not use oil or lotion at all.
How long is a session?
- Bodywork: Most people want one hour of bodywork. An hour is enough time to work on the back, gluteus, hamstrings, calves, neck, and depending on remaining time, the arms and forearms. Half an hour is not enough time to do full body. It is only enough time for partial bodywork, in which we focus on specific areas of the body, such as the back or the legs. We need enough time to make sure the muscles relax.
- Footwork: Fifteen minutes is enough time for general relaxation. Please add more time if you would like more detailed work.
- Heat Therapies: You must do forty-five minutes or more because equipment takes time to heat up.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine: Fifteen minutes is enough time, but we suggest using these therapies in conjunction with bodywork to maximize results.
What if I feel embarrassed about my body?
We do not judge you by your body type. We are used to seeing all kinds of bodies because we work on bodies all the time. We will treat every body with respect, care, and kindness.
Will I be alone when I undress?
Yes, you will. Please wait until we leave the room first to undress. We will be back when you are ready.
Do I have to be completely undressed?
You can take off whatever you are most comfortable with removing. We will try our best to work around your needs. Skin to skin contact feels the best and most relaxing, so almost all clients leave only their underwear on. Women can leave their bra on, but bras will be unclasped and re-clasped when working on the back.
Do I have to cover myself with a towel?
Yes, you are required to drape with a towel. You can cover yourself or you can wait until you are ready for us to enter the room so we can do it for you. Only the area being worked on will be exposed during the session. Genitals will be covered at all times and a second towel will be used to cover the chest while working on the abdominals.
How do I position myself on the table?
For bodywork, lay face down on your stomach, with your face above the breathing hole. Your feet should be spread apart on the pillow so then your legs remain in a relaxed position. You should be on top of (not under!) the clean sheet of paper and under the towel. For work on your feet, lay face up on your back, with your head at the pillow.
What do I do during a session?
This is your session. Get comfortable and close your eyes. You can place your arms anywhere you want, unless we move it so we can have better access to certain areas on your back. You can facilitate relaxation by breathing deeply to allow more oxygen to reach your muscles. Relax your mind. Mind and body are connected ?if you have thoughts racing through your head, your body will take much longer to relax.
Will it hurt?
It can feel uncomfortable at times, but it shouldn’t be extremely painful. There is such a thing as pain that feels good. It is similar to the feeling you get when you stretch. Bad pain just plain hurts. Tell the therapist to lighten the pressure.
What if I feel uncomfortable during my session?
Speak up! Again, it is your session. If you need less pressure, more pressure, faster strokes, or slower strokes, let us know. If you find the music too loud or the room too bright, or feel too hot, too cold, or ticklish, just tell us. We will try to solve anything that is making you uncomfortable, like needing having an extra pillow or having a running nose from lying face down.
Can I talk during my session?
Yes, you can talk, but we do not suggest it. You are paying for a relaxing experience and we believe you should immerse yourself in deep relaxation. Please do not talk when there are other clients around so as to not disturb them. Thank you.
What if I fall asleep?
Falling asleep is like a compliment to us, because we know we definitely helped you relax. If you want to stay awake, let us know.
Do you provide "full service" or "happy endings"?
We provide professional and legal services only. No, we do not provide those services that you are asking for. The services listed on this website are the only services we do. If you come in and expect something sexual at the end, you will be disappointed. Clients coming in and asking will pay the original full price even if the session cuts short. Please save your time and ours by taking our word seriously. Thank you.
Do you provide table showers?
No, we do not provide table showers.
What should I do after a session?
Take your time to get dressed after your session. You might feel dizzy or leave something behind by accident if you rush. Drink extra water after your session. Cellular metabolic waste (from everyday function) is released from your previously tight muscles, which had compromised circulation. Water is needed to flush out that waste. Do not drink alcohol or caffeine after, as it can intensify the effects.
Will a single session help me feel better?
Yes, if your goal is to relax and to work out your day to day aches and pains. Some people will feel sore and will feel better the day after. No, if your goal is to get rid a chronic pain or a pain that comes and goes forever. More sessions will be needed. The benefits of massage are cumulative.
How often should I come back?
Not everyone has the time to come back daily. Weekly would be a good amount of time without losing all the benefits gained from the previous sessions.
What if I cannot come back?
If you want, we can show you exercises to perform daily. This will help you relax without our assistance.
When should I not get bodywork done?
You should refrain from bodywork under the following conditions:
- After drinking alcohol
- Fever
- Inflammation
- High blood pressure
- Infectious diseases
- Hernia
- Osteoporosis
- Varicose veins
- Broken bones
- Skin problems
- Cancer
- When your doctor advises not to
For some of the above conditions, we can avoid working on certain areas.
Do you accept credit card payments?
Yes. We take Visa, MasterCard, and Discover. There is a 4.5% fee.
Do you accept insurance?
No, we do not accept insurance. We do have some clients who use their receipts to get reimbursed by their health insurance though. This depends on the health insurance you have.
How much do I tip?
We appreciate your gesture very much. A majority of our clients tip 15-20%. The entire tip will go to the person who worked on you. Thank you very much!
Do you sell gift certificates?
Yes we do. See more about that here.