FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions 

(for frequently asked questions for pregnancy massage please see the pregnancy massage page)
What types of massages do you offer?
Though there are several types of massage styles, my general focus is a relaxing therapeutic massage (deeper work where needed but still relaxing) and pregnancy (prenatal) massage.  I can, at any time, adjust the pressure and style to your liking whether is more relaxing or deeper tissue. 
I have never had a massage, what does it feel like?
Everyone experiences a massage differently and every massage therapist does things a little differently, so that is a little tough to say, however I can give you a general idea of what happens during your session.  First, I start with a warm up and prep which consists of gentle compression and light rocking, to help relax the body and loosen up some of the tension.  Then a oil or lotion is applied with long flowing strokes to the area that is going to be worked, this will also help relax the body.  The pressure will gradually be increased, and in areas of tension the pressure will be increased a little bit more.  Throughout the massage several different techniques are used to assist your body in releasing the tension, such as flowing strokes, gentle rocking, extra pressure applied to specific areas, and sometimes gentle stretching. 
What is considered a full body massage? What areas are massaged?
The back, glutes (butt), hips, back of the legs (hamstrings & calves), feet, front of the legs (knee & quads), arms, neck and head. Sometimes the stomach is massaged as well, if there is time and the client likes it as not everyone likes to have their stomach massaged. If there is an area that you prefer to not have massaged, no matter if it is too sensitive, too ticklish, you just don't like that area massaged, etc., all you have to do is let the therapist know and that area will be avoided. Personal boundaries are respected at all times. Private/personal areas are not massaged at any time or for any reason.
How long is the massage?
When you get a massage from me it is for the full amount of time that you booked your massage for. Some places and therapists do what they call a 'spa hour', which is 45-55 minutes of massage time. They include the set-up and break-down time as part of the massage.  If you go to a place, then this generally includes them bringing you into the room and discussing what you are needing for your massage, you undressing and getting on the table, then dressing once the massage is finished and time for them to re-set the room for the next person. Some mobile massage therapist include the setting up and breaking down of the table, you undressing and getting on the table and getting dressed again as part of the massage time. 

In total, between set-up time, the massage and time to break-down everything, plan about an additional 30 minutes to the amount of time you want for the massage.  For example, if you schedule a 1 hour massage, plan on it taking approximately 1 1/2+ hours from the time I arrive to the time I leave.
What size is your table and how much weight does it hold?
I have a top quality professional massage table that is 30 inches wide by 73 inches long and hold up to 450 pounds.  I also have extenders for the arm area that extend the width about 4 inches on each side and a 4 inch extender for the end of the table as well.
What type of payment do you take?
I take cash, Paypal, and all major credit cards (processed through Paypal, but you do not need a Paypal account). Payments made with credit or debit cards and Paypal will have to be done here on my website.
What should I do during the massage?
Your main focus should be on relaxing as much of your body as possible.  To help relax, some people will focus on their breathing and will take slow deep breaths, some just like to just let their mind go, some fall asleep, and some have other ways of relaxing. There is no need to feel like you need to talk to me while getting a massage, unless it is about the massage or unless you want to. 

If you have any questions or feel any discomfort (pressure of massage, room temperature, or general discomfort), please let me know as soon as it occurs so it can be addressed.  This is one of the few times you get to completely relax and let someone else take care of you.  There is no need to ‘help’ the therapist at any time, if they need your assistance in moving an area or need you to resist during a stretch, they will let you know. 
Where will my massage session be held?
Your massage will take place at the location of your choice, which is generally your home or office. However, if you are visiting the Phoenix area you can also get your massage done in your hotel room or at the vacation home or resort you are staying at. 

I will need a space of about 10 feet x 5 feet to set-up my massage table. A room that is quiet and where the lights can be dimmed a little is generally the best, but any space will work.
Do I have to be fully undressed for the massage?
A lot of people will fully undress, but several people will keep some clothing on.  Several people will keep their underwear or shorts on. It is really a matter of what makes you more comfortable.  The more comfortable you are, the more you will be able to relax, and that is what matters the most.  You will be covered with a sheet during the entire massage, and only the area being worked on will be uncovered.
Will the massage therapist be present while I undress?
No, the therapist will leave the room to wash their hands and to give you time to undress and get comfortable on the table.
Is there anything I should do prior to the massage?
Avoid eating a heavy meal and avoid alcohol consumption (can make you feel very sick afterwards).  Try to relax a little: you can take a shower, take a bath, take a dip in the pool, or whatever you generally do to relax.  It is generally a good idea to drink a glass of water within the hour before getting a massage, but try not to drink it too fast as it may make you to need to use the restroom before the massage is finished. 
Do you offer any other spa services?
I do offer a hand-crafted sugar scrub that exfoliates and moisturizes the skin.  

If you would like to have a spa party I have a nail technician for manicure and pedicures, and an aesthetician for facials, that work with me when needed.  These services are great to combine with massages for a great spa day in your own home, which is perfect for a girl's day or evening, bridal showers, baby showers, birthdays, holidays or any time.
How will I feel after the massage?
This varies greatly from one person to the next.  Generally people feel very relaxed and at ease. Many people will experience relief from aches and pains they have been experiencing, increased range of motion and flexibility, less stress and tension and more restful sleep.  Some people will feel tired afterwards and some will feel energized.  

It is possible that the next day or two you may be a little sore or have a slight headache, to help reduce the chances of this happening it is best to make sure you drink plenty of water to help flush out any toxins that were released during the massage.  If you experience any discomfort (slight headache, slightly nauseous, or fatigued), it is best to drink a full glass of water to help flush out the toxins that may be causing the discomfort. 
What are some of the benefits of getting massages?
There are many great benefits from getting massages, and with regular massages the benefits increase.  

Some of the benefits are: reduction in aches and pains, reduced tension and stress, reduced headaches, better sleep, reduced anxiety, improved circulation (both blood and lymphatic), general increase in well-being, helps promote faster healing, helps increase immune system functionality, and helps reduce blood pressure.  

Some of the symptoms that massage can help with are low back pain relief, sciatic pain relief, reduction in headaches, lower blood pressure, lower over-all stress, stiff neck, frozen shoulder, increased range of motion in joints, and many more.
How often should I get a massage?
That is completely up to you and what you feel you need.  If you have 'stuff' going on, I would say weekly to every other week, in the beginning, is best, and then move down to monthly if and when you want to.  Everyone is different and has different massage needs, some people get them weekly and some go weeks/months/years between massages.  However, massages do have a cumulative healing effect, so the more regularly and consistently you get a massage the longer you feel the benefits of each massage.  This is because you will be able to work on the cause of the issue and not just the effect (the aches and pains).    
Is there anything else I should know?
Yes, if you have any medical conditions, have had any injuries or surgeries, it is very important to discuss them with the therapist, as some conditions can make massage inadvisable.  It is always good to talk with your doctor as well and to let them know that you are considering getting a massage.  Depending on the medical condition, an approval from your doctor may be required.  Failure to inform the therapist, it may result in the session ending immediately and cancellation of future sessions.
Is draping required?
Yes, draping is required and used during the entire massage session.  It is for your warmth and comfort, as much as it is for my comfort.  This is a professional boundary and I will not cross it, whether you are comfortable without draping does not make a difference to me in this regard. It is also required by state law. If you do not respect this, the massage session will end immediately and you will still be required to pay for the entire session that were you scheduled for. If you do not want to use draping find another therapist.
Do you do anything “extra” or more than just a massage? 
Absolutely not! I know there are some 'therapists' that do and I also understand that in several other countries it is allowed, if not expected.  But I am not one of those 'therapists' and we are not in those countries, I am a professional massage therapist so please be respectful.  There is a difference between a professional massage therapist and someone offers those types of services even if they call themselves a massage therapist.  I am a professional massage therapist only, so if you are looking for something other than that, please save your time and go somewhere else.  Also, it is against Arizona state law to even ask for such services, so if you push it the session will end immediately, and you may find yourself being visited by the police.

I hate to have to put this here, but unfortunately there are some people that pretend to be massage therapist but are really something else which may cause some people to think that even a truly professional massage therapists do more than just massage. So to make sure there are no misunderstandings I am putting this on here.
 
Appointments available in the Phoenix, AZ area and beyond; including Chandler, Gilbert, Tempe, Ahwatukee, Mesa, Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, Paradise Valley, Apache Junction, San Tan Valley, Queen Creek and beyond. 
...more (Prices & Hours) 
Traveling massage is also known as: in home massage, at home massage, house call massage, in room massage, mobile massage, on call massage, on site massage, out call massage, on location massage  
You can get a great massage if you are in your own home, rental home, condo, apartment, resort, vacation home, hotel, office, hospital, convalescent care, hospice care, or at an event. 
All Massage therapy appointments are provided by a professionally trained Arizona State Licensed Massage Therapist (also known as LMT). Licensed massage therapists are also known as certified or registered massage therapist.