By definition, massage is the systematic manual or mechanical manipulation of the body's soft tissues for therapeutic purposes.  These manipulations are performed by the massage therapist to prevent and/or alleviate pain, muscle spasm and stress; and to promote health and well being.

For many centuries massage has been used by practically all cultures as a means of maintaining a healthy balance.  The benefits of massage are well-known; primarily tension relief and stress reduction as well as increased circulation and improved emotional and physical health.

"I direct that the strokes and circuits of the hands

should be made of many sorts, in order that as far as

possible all the muscle fibers should be rubbed

in every direction."

(Galen, Roman emperor's physician, A.D. 129-c.199)

There are many types of massage therapy from energy and polarity work to sports massage and deep tissue manipulation.  We concentrate in the Swedish (relaxation) and neuromuscular and deep tissue therapies, however, we are committed to our clients and their respective massage requirements.

Don't see your question here? Send us some feedback!

What Information Will I Be Asked To Provide?

At your first appointment you will be asked to fill out an intake form containing questions about your decision to get a massage, your physical condition, medical history, lifestyle, stress level, and any pain or discomfort you may be having.  The massage therapist will discuss your form with you and may ask questions about your health goals and what you expect to receive from the massage.

"The mind, which before massage is in a perturbed, restless,

vacillating and even despondent state, becomes after massage,

calm, quiet, peaceful, and subdued;

in fact, the wearied and worried mind has been converted into a

mind restful, placid and refreshed"

(Dr. Stretch Dowse, eminent Victorian physician, 1887)

For a full body massage, you will be asked to disrobe to your comfort level.  Undressing takes place in private and a sheet is provided for draping.  A blanket will be available for your added comfort.  The massage therapist will undrape only the part of your body being massaged, insuring that your modesty and boundaries are respected at all times.  Your massage session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room with soft music playing to help you relax.  You will lie on a padded massage table specifically designed for your comfort.

"My sense is that many of these people would be much more helped by a skillful massage than the usual ministrations of doctors.  One of the greatest problems facing many of us is that we have become so accustomed to tension, that we don't know what it feels like to be really relaxed. ... A massage offers not only immediate pleasure and relief, but the opportunity to glimpse deeper relaxation.  By definition this can improve our health and massage should certainly be considered a valuable resource in therapy as well as health promotion.  Those who would think otherwise probably never had a good massage."

(Dr. David Sobel, Chief of Preventive Medicine, Kaiser-Permanente Medical Center, San Jose, California, observing that what many of his patients really needed was to be touched)

If you are sick, please DO NOT schedule a massage.  If you are already scheduled for a massage, and you become ill, have the flu, a cold, or a sinus infection, please call and reschedule your appointment.  Massage, when you are sick would only intensify the effects of your illness and, quite possibly, infect the therapist.  Likewise, if we are sick, we will not perform massage on you.  Our bodies need to heal themselves and above all else, we must do no harm ... either to our clients or ourselves.  So, we ask that you please remember these health concerns when considering massage.  If you have any questions at all regarding illness and massage, please call us and we will be happy to discuss it with you.  Thank you.

843-442-5274

Why Should I Get a Massage?