More FAQs
Questions about massage in general:
- What are the Benefits of Massage?
- What kind of massage can I get?
- What is a Swedish massage?
- What will the first appointment be like?
- What should I do during a massage?
- Will I feel embarrassed about the massage therapist seeing my body?
- Will a massage hurt?
- Will a massage tickle?
- How long is a massage?
- What do I do after the massage?
- How will I feel after my massage?
MASSAGE IN GENERAL
What are the Benefits of Massage?
- Relieves stress
- Alleviates pain
- Reduces anxiety
- Relieves mental & physical fatigue
- Improves muscle tone & circulation
- Increases flow of oxygen & nutrients to muscles
- Helps eliminate headaches
- Relieves muscle soreness
- Relieves back pain
- Reduces TMJ symptoms
- Improves range of motion
- Activates the immune system
- Induces deep relaxation
- Gives a sense of well-being & peace
- Promotes wellness
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What kind of massage can I get?
Tyra has many hours of advanced training in specialized massage, bodywork and energy work modalities and techniques that can used singly or in combination. For example, there are special techniques to relieve painful trigger points, relax contracted fascia (the muscle’s protective coverings), realign and support injured tissue to heal, aid lymph drainage, or restore the natural balance and flow of energy throughout the body. Your session will be designed to fit your individual needs.
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What is a Swedish massage?
Swedish massage is what many people think of when massage is mentioned. It involves the use of oils or creams and uses a variety of strokes which encourages the return circulation of the blood and lymph to the heat and improves joint movement. It is soothing, relaxing and helps relieve stress.
A Swedish massage usually begins with a light steady touch, followed by broad gliding strokes. These strokes warm the muscles, calm the nervous system and release tension. Gradually, as your body relaxes, your therapist will work more deeply to relax specific areas.
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What will the first appointment be like?
There are some conditions where massage is not appropriate so your therapist will have you complete a general intake form and answer questions about your general health and reasons for seeking massage. The form will also provide information to you as required by the State of Texas. Your responses will help your therapist in her initial evaluation and to design a massage or program to suit your individual needs.
Your massage will take place on a table especially designed for stability and comfort with an adjustable face rest for support for the head and neck. One of the rooms has an electric table that can raise and lower to make getting on and off the table easier.
Your therapist will leave the room while you undress to your personal comfort level and relax on the table between fresh sheets. The room will be warm and quiet, with soft music to help set a relaxing mood.
Most commonly, people remove most or all of their clothing for a full body massage and are covered with a sheet throughout the session except for the area massaged. Undress as much as is comfortable for you. You may choose to wear underwear or other garments.
Some bodywork modalities do not require you to undress completely or at all. Those techniques would not use lotion, creams or lotions. If you do not undress then wear loose comfortable clothes that allow easy movement.
If you are uncomfortable about receiving a massage for this or any reason, be sure to discuss your concerns with your massage therapist.
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What should I do during a massage?
Make yourself comfortable. If your massage therapist wants to adjust your position, she will either move you, for example, lifting your arm, or tell you what is needed. Otherwise, change your position anytime to make yourself more comfortable.
You may wish to close your eyes and relax completely during your massage. You may even find it so relaxing, you fall asleep. You may wish to talk. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to ask them.
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Will I feel embarrassed about the massage therapist seeing my body?
Massage therapists are there to help you feel better, not judge you. They work with a wide variety of body shapes and sizes sand are aware that each client is an individual.
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Will a massage hurt?
A massage should feel relaxing and enjoyable. Effective massage works with the body’s natural responses, not against them. If your massage therapist is working in areas of injury or chronic pain there may be some initial discomfort which should quickly ease. If you do experience pain during a massage always let your therapist know so that she can adapt to your comfort level.
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Will a massage tickle?
Ticklish people are often surprised that massage does not tickle. The massage touch is completely different from tickling. The intent is relaxation; the pressure is gentle, but firm. In addition, the therapist chooses strokes that gradually accustom you to the touch involved. If you are extremely ticklish, let your therapist know so she can work carefully, or avoid your areas of sensitivity altogether.
How long is a massage?
An hour is a common length for a massage. This is enough time for a deeply relaxing full body massage, or more in-depth work on a particular area, such as back, neck and shoulders.
A half-hour can be an excellent introduction to massage, with time for a partial massage, such as back, neck and shoulders or legs and feet. One and a half hour is enough time for a full body massage with special attention to a problem area.
Different modalities of massage, bodywork or energy work may have different time requirements depending on the goals of the session.
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What do I do after the massage?
When your massage is finished, your therapist will leave the room while you dress. Be aware that massage can be profoundly relaxing, and it affects all of your body’s systems. Give yourself a moment to reorient before slowly getting up from the table. Massage flushes toxic lactic acid from your muscles so be sure to drink lots of water in the hours following your massage.
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How will I feel after my massage?
After a massage most people feel very relaxed. Many experience freedom from aches and pains that have built up from months of tensions or repetitive activity in their daily life. After an initial period of feeling lethargic, people generally experience an increase in energy that can last for several days.
Sometimes muscle soreness may be felt the next day or so. This may be the result of the body detoxing from the massage. The initial soreness usually resolves itself into new freedom of movement. Call your therapist if you have any concerns.
Sometimes the immediate effects of your massage may seem mild. Watch for further changes over the following days, such as pain relief, increased mobility or reduced stress.
Self care includes drinking lots of water after your massage to help your body flush any toxins such as lactic acid that may have been released. A warm Epsom salts bath is also helpful.
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