Frequently Asked Questions
-
I offer holistic and deep tissue massage, tailoring each treatment to you and what you need on the day. This might involve working with areas of pain or tension, improving ease of movement, supporting relaxation, or a combination of these.
-
Massage can be helpful for many people experiencing muscular pain, tension or restricted movement. Rather than following a set routine, I’ll work with you to understand what’s troubling you and tailor the treatment accordingly.
Massage isn’t a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment, and I’ll always let you know if I think it would be appropriate for you to seek advice from another healthcare professional.
-
Absolutely. You don’t need to be experiencing pain or have a particular problem to benefit from massage.
Massage can be a wonderful way to slow down, release tension and give your body and mind some time to rest. Your treatment will always be tailored to what you need, whether that’s therapeutic work, deep relaxation, or a little of both.
-
A 60-minute appointment gives us plenty of time to focus on one or two areas, or to enjoy a more general massage. A 90-minute appointment allows more time for a whole-body treatment or for working in greater depth with several areas.
If you’re not sure which to choose, please feel free to get in touch and I’ll be happy to advise.
-
We’ll begin with a consultation so that I can find out a little about you, your health and what you’d like from your massage. We can discuss any areas of pain or tension and agree together on how best to approach your treatment.
For your first appointment I allow an extra 10 minutes free of charge, so that we have plenty of time for the consultation without taking time away from your massage.
-
Come in whatever you feel comfortable wearing. You don’t need to bring any special clothing with you.
It can be helpful to keep jewellery to a minimum. Small earrings are fine, as are plain rings. If you’re wearing large earrings or a necklace I’ll ask you to remove them, as they could cause you an injury. If I’ll be working on your hands, I’ll also ask you to remove any rings with stones in them.
-
For most massage techniques, it’s helpful to work directly on the skin. For that reason, I will usually ask you to take off most of your clothes, leaving on just your knickers or underpants.
If you don’t feel comfortable with that, just let me know. You can always choose to keep clothing on, and we can adapt the treatment accordingly. Your comfort and sense of safety come first.
-
You’ll have complete privacy to undress and dress, as I’ll leave the room. I’ll knock before coming back in.
During your treatment your body will be covered except for the area I’m working on. Your breasts and genital area will remain covered at all times and will never be touched.
I’ll explain what I’m going to do beforehand and will always ask your permission before working in any potentially sensitive area, such as the belly. You’re welcome to ask questions or change your mind at any point.
-
Deep tissue massage shouldn’t be painful. I work gradually and pay close attention to how your body responds, rather than simply applying as much pressure as possible.
Some techniques may feel strong or intense, but they should always feel manageable. I’ll check in with you and adjust the treatment whenever needed.
-
Yes — please do. Everyone experiences pressure differently, and what feels good can also vary from one day to another.
I welcome your feedback throughout the treatment. You never need to put up with pressure that feels uncomfortable, and you’re equally welcome to ask for a little more.
-
There are some situations in which massage may need to be postponed or avoided — for example, if you’re acutely unwell, have a fever or infection, or have certain injuries or medical conditions.
A couple of days before your appointment I’ll send you an online form to fill in that includes a health questionnaire. Depending on what you tell me about your health, I may get in touch with you before your appointment to discuss your suitability for treatment.
If you’re unsure whether massage is suitable for you, please do get in touch before booking, and we can have a chat.
-
Many people feel relaxed, calmer and more comfortable in their body after a massage. You may also notice changes in areas that felt tight or restricted.
Occasionally, particularly after more focused work, you may feel a little tender or tired afterwards. This is usually short-lived. I’ll talk you through anything relevant at the end of your treatment and, where appropriate, suggest simple ways to support yourself afterwards.
-
When I’m treating clients, my phone is off, which means I’m not contactable. This is one reason why I use an online booking system. It’s quick and easy, and unlike me, it’s always available!
-
You can send me an email. I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.
-
I use unscented massage wax. It contains no nut oils or other known allergens. It contains no animal products, so it’s suitable for vegans.
-
I hold a Diploma in Holistic and Deep Tissue Massage from The Jing Institute. I’m currently working towards their Professional Certificate in Advanced Clinical Massage Therapy (BTEC Level 6).
Being a student on this advanced course has allowed me to become a student member of the well-respected professional body, Complementary Health Professionals.
-
Yes. I’m fully insured with specialist insurance brokers, Balens.
-
Yes. I hold an up-to-date certificate in Emergency First Aid at Work from St John Ambulance.