A good therapist is one who listens to their clients, respects their boundaries and has the technical knowledge and skill to provide appropriate bodywork.

When you make your appointment, take a few minutes to discuss your goals for the session including specific areas you would like work on, as well as sensitive spots or injuries you would prefer to avoid. If it’s your first visit, plan to arrive about 15 minutes early to fill out a medical history form. This is for your protection and helps in planning the session.

Preparing for a massage session:

Avoid eating a heavy meal just before a massage and if possible, a warm bath or shower just before arriving will help your body to relax and maximize the benefits.

During the session:

Good communication is essential to effective deep tissue work. During the massage, always let your therapist know your comfort level with the intensity of the pressure. Massage should never be painful. If you need the temperature of the room adjusted or are uncomfortable in any way.. please say so. You will have a more positive massage experience if you offer feedback. You should leave the session feeling refreshed and renewed.

Occasionally people get so relaxed they fall asleep briefly.. which is fine, your muscles will still get all the benefits of the massage.

After the session:

Most people feel significant relief, reduced stress and have a great night’s sleep. You may feel some muscle soreness one to two days following the massage where the deepest work was done but this should be minimal.

Follow up care:

Gentle, passive stretching in a hot bath or shower will help maintain the benefits of your session. It is recommended to drink plenty of water. Staying well hydrated lubricates your muscles and joints and facilitates circulation of lymphatic fluids (immune system).

Avoid lifting heavy objects and intense work-outs for 48 hours after your massage. Muscles are more vulnerable to injury (pulls and strains) during this healing phase triggered by the deep tissue therapy. It’s also recommended to avoid heavy drinking of alcohol for 24 hours.