Frequently Asked Questions

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If you do not see the answer to a question you have, please do get in touch. We are always happy to help.

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What are holistic therapies?

Holistic therapies have been practiced for about 5000 years. They treat the 'whole person' rather than just the illness or problem and help the body to heal itself naturally. They are very powerful therapies balancing the mind as well as the body. All treatments are considered to be safe for most people. However, there may be some contraindications where your doctor's permission, in writing, may be required before a treatment can commence. See question 'when should I not get a massage' for more information.

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What are massage therapies?

Massage is the manipulation of superficial and deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue using various techniques, to enhance function, aid in the healing process, decrease muscle reflex activity, inhibit motor-neuron excitability, promote relaxation and wellbeing.

 

The word comes from the French massage "friction of kneading", or from Arabic massameaning "to touch, feel or handle" or from Latin massa meaning "mass, dough", Greek verb μάσσω (masso) "to handle, touch, to work with the hands, to knead dough". In distinction the ancient Greek word for massage was anatripsis, and the Latin was frictio.

 

Massage involves working and acting on the body with pressure - structured, unstructured, stationary, or moving - tension, motion, or vibration, done manually or with mechanical aids. Target tissues may include muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, skin, joints, or other connective tissue, as well aslymphatic vessels, or organs of the gastrointestinal system. Massage can be applied with the hands, fingers, elbows, knees, forearm, or feet.

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What happens during a first treatment? 

Each treatment starts with a 'complimentary' consultation to ensure your suitability for the treatment; it also allows me to make any adjustments to the treatment to suit individual client requirements. Please allow extra time for your first treatment as a more in-depth consultation and life-style questionnaire is carried out. This is a time for you to ask any questions and explain if you have any problem areas which you would like extra attention paid. 

 

What should I wear? Do I have to undress?

It is best to wear something comfortable. The amount of clothing you will need to remove will depend upon the treatment. For example, a full body massage would require you to undress to your underwear, to allow access to the areas to be massaged. You will never be asked to remove your lower underwear for any type of treatment.

 

You will be given privacy to undress and will be asked to cover yourself with towels or sarongs which are provided. When an area is being treated the towel/sarong will be removed from that particular area and then covered again once finished. Your modesty is kept at all times. Once the massage is finished you will be left alone to relax and then to get dressed in private. 

 

Indian Head Massage - this is a fully clothed treatment.

Reiki - this is a fully clothed treatment.

 

What should I do during a treatment?

Just make yourself comfortable. If we require you to adjust your position, we will either move you or will ask you to move what is needed. Otherwise you can change your position anytime to make yourself more comfortable.

 

Many people close their eyes and relax completely during a session, whist others prefer to talk - it is entirely up to you. This is your treatment, your time, and whatever feels natural to you is the best way to relax. Do not hesitate to ask questions at any time.

 

When should I not get a massage?

There are several contra-indications for receiving a massage. Please see the consultations page for full information.

 

After my treatment, is there anything I need to do?

To gain full benefit from your treatment it is recommended that you relax after for the remainder day or evening if possible and that you drink plenty of water or herbal tea. This will help to assist in the removal of the toxins that have been released from your soft tissues if you have had a massage treatment and also because Reiki is very dehydrating. Please see the benefits and aftercare page for further advice.

 

Do you offer a mobile service?

This is dependent on location.

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Do you offer treatments to male clients?

This is dependent on location.

 

What happens after the treatment?

You will often feel very relaxed following treatment.  You will have a short “come to” rest time and you will be offered a glass of water once you are up and dressed. You will also have time to discuss how you feel or ask any questions you may have.

 

Will you offer follow up support or advice after my treatment?

Yes. All clients are invited to remain in touch via email or telephone. Even if you only ever come for one treatment you are very welcome to get in touch for advice.

 

What happens if I am late for an appointment or I need to cancel?

If you are late for an appointment the session will be adjusted to perform as much of the treatment as possible within the remaining time. Pricing will not be adjusted. 

 

However, if you are more than 20 minutes late for your appointment you will lose your appointment slot and 50% of the treatment price will be payable.

 

Treatment times quoted are approximate as they are tailored to suit specific client requirements. If a client requires extra treatment time, we always happy to make the time available, and therefore ask that you arrive on time for your appointment. 

 

Our time is very valuable as I am sure is to you; we therefore ask you please to allow a minimum of 24 hours before a booked appointment to cancel or change a booking. Failure to do so will result in 50% of the treatment price being charged on your next appointment.

 

I'm pregnant can I have a treatment?

Yes, massage and reiki can help relieve tension and ease aching backs.  However please avoid any massage treatments during the first trimester. Reiki however, is safe throughout pregnancy and is particularly good for easing the symptoms of morning sickness in the first months.

 

Would you like feedback? 

Feedback is very welcome from clients. We want to make your treatment an enjoyable and relaxing experience.  

 

How do I pay?

Cash or card at the time of your appointment.