Frequently Asked Questions & Client Downloads
Below are some answers to frequently asked questions, which should help to answer any queries you may have. However, please do contact me should you have additional questions you'd like answered.
If you scroll down to the end of this page, you'll find copies of handouts which you are welcome to download from here. Print a copy if you wish or save them to your ipad or tablet if you have one (and do your little bit for the environment).
How often should I book?
Ultimately, this is one for you to decide as I appreciate there are various factors such as time, finances and other commitments which need to be considered.
However, as a general rule, if you are booking an appointment to address a specific condition, more regular sessions are recommended at first. Another factor is whether your condition has been long-term or is a more recent complaint. Although the body is amazing in its ability to repair and recuperate, a longstanding condition may take longer for your body to respond and we need to allow it time to do so. Over the weeks, we will gauge your body's response and this will determine how we continue. The aim is that you reach a point where positive changes have occurred and your follow-up appointments are for maintenance.
Alternatively, some people are wanting to book for some relaxation and 'me' time. In that case, a session every 3-6 weeks may be what works for you.
How many sessions will I need?
With regard to how many sessions you will need, this may depend on the length of time you have lived with the condition and will certainly depend on how your body responds to treatment. Each client's response to holistic therapy is different and you may feel one session has sufficiently helped, or it may take several.
Again, we will discuss your needs and what you are hoping to get from the treatment and can tailor sessions accordingly.
Will the treatment hurt?
No treatment should be so painful, you're scrambling to get off the couch!
Depending on your choice of treatment - and how much tension you are holding in your body - you may experience some areas of tenderness. However, I always work within your pain threshold and will gauge pressure accordingly.
Pain can be an indication of an underlying issue or damage and pressure may need to be adjusted until your body relaxes and responds to the manipulation of the massage. To work too deeply or too prolonged directly on an area of pain can cause you to tense and this may negate the relaxing and beneficial effects of the massage. The aim of the massage is to work with how your body is responding, not to fight against it.
I believe a body which can relax is a body which can heal.
What should I expect during my first visit?
At your first appointment, we need to complete a medical consultation form. This enables me to get an overview of your medical history and lifestyle in order to assess what will work best for you. It is important to list all health concerns and medications so I can adapt the session to your specific needs without doing any harm. It is also important to list any allergies you may have so I am aware if I need to use a different oil, etc during the session. Your consultation form is a confidential document and any anything you disclose is held in strict confidence.
We will then discuss the treatment and if you have any areas on which you would like me to focus.
In addition to any questions I need to ask, please always feel free to ask any questions at any point.
Do I have to be completely undressed?
In short - No!
For example, if you have booked a full body massage, you would remove all clothing apart from your underwear. However, if you have booked an upper body massage, I only need access to this area so you may prefer to keep your skirt or trousers on.
Other therapies have different requirements with regard to removal of clothing (e.g. Reflexology, Indian Head Massage and Reiki) and details are contained within the specific section for each therapy.
Prior to commencement of the massage, I will leave the room in order for you to remove clothing, make yourself comfortable on the couch and cover yourself with the towels/blankets. At all times, I will ensure you have appropriate coverage of towels/blankets and I will only uncover the area of your body being worked on. If you are female and I am going to be working your abdomen, a second towel will be used to cover the breasts, so the main towel can be moved to expose the abdomen.
What should I do during the therapy session?
The main thing is for you to feel comfortable and relaxed - whether you have booked in for a Massage, Reiki or Life Coaching.
Whatever form of massage therapy you opt for, it is imperative that you feel comfortable whether you are laying on the couch, reclined in the Lafuma or seated on a chair. If I need to adjust your position at any point, I will either move you or will ask if you can re-position yourself temporarily.
Many people close their eyes and completely relax during a session, whereas some prefer to talk. My view is it's your session, so whatever you wish to do is okay!
Can I talk during my session?
As stated above, my view is it's your session, so whatever you wish to do is okay.
The important thing to remember is that this treatment is all about you relaxing and enjoying the experience. You may find that you prefer to chat at the start of your treatment but, as the session progresses, you feel more relaxed and sleepy. It is absolutely fine to let yourself drift off!
Always feel you can feedback during the session too. If the pressure needs adapting, something feels uncomfortable and/or you need me to stop at any point, always let me know. Additionally, should you start to feel too warm or too cold - again, speak up!
How long will each session last?
Your initial appointment will always be longer to allow time to complete the consultation form. Subsequent appointments will depend on what therapy you have booked, together with the length of treatment you have selected.
As you will see from the pages on the website, some therapies vary in length or have the option of a shorter/longer session.
The average body massage treatment lasts 60 minutes, whereas a 30 minute session only allows time for a partial massage and will tend to focus on your main area of concern. Most people prefer a 60 or 90 minute session for optimal relaxation.
It is always preferable to allow yourself time to relax prior to and after the session.
How will I feel after my treatment?
Everyone's reaction to holistic therapy is individual to them. Most clients feel very relaxed and will often say they slept really well after the massage.
Some clients, especially after a few regular sessions, say they experience a significant decrease from long-term aches and pains. Some experience a release from the condition for which they originally booked an appointment.
Again, depending on the holistic therapy you have booked, you may feel a little tired, or you may need to go to the toilet more regularly as your body responds to the treatment you have had. Some clients can feel more energised and revitalised - it really is an individual response and can vary week to week too.
After a session, you should ensure you are hydrated in order to allow your body to rid itself of any toxins post massage.
Are there times when I shouldn't have a massage?
This will depend on the treatment you have booked and we can discuss this at the time of you booking an appointment.
Should you have a fever or be experiencing flu symptoms, it is probably a good idea to postpone your treatment until you are feeling better. This is due to the possibility of your body having a stronger 'healing response' post treatment. It's not dangerous, however you may feel a lot worse for a day or two before feeling better.
Client Downloads
You are welcome to download these guides for personal use
Relaxation TipsStress Self HelpSleep Self HelpMindfulness for Busy PeoplePositive AffirmationsIncreasing MotivationNourishing and Depleting ActivitiesThe Rucksack of LifeColour BreathingMindfulness - The Visitor
