Frequently Asked Questions
Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music may be played to help you relax. You will lie on a table especially designed for your comfort.
Must I be completely undressed?
Most massage techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, it is entirely up to you what you want to wear. You should undress to your level of comfort. You will be properly draped during the entire session.
Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet and blanket.
Will I be covered during the session?
You will be properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be undraped.
What parts of my body will be massaged?
A typical full-body massage session will include work on your head, neck, shoulders, chest, arms, hands, legs, feet, buttocks, and back. Face and abdominals are optional.
What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
A relaxing Swedish massage is often a baseline for clients. In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with broad, flowing strokes that will help calm your nervous system and relax exterior muscle tension. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax specific areas and relieve areas of muscular tension. Often, a light oil or lotion is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. The oil and lotion also helps hydrate your skin. You should communicate immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken. Massage and bodywork are most effective when your body is not resisting.
Are there different kinds of massage and bodywork?
There are numerous types of massage and bodywork; various techniques utilize different strokes, including basic rubbing strokes, rocking movement, posture and movement re-education, application of pressure to specific points, and more. We can discuss which methods may be most appropriate for you.
What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?
Prior to the session, feel free to ask the practitioner any questions about the technique or the upcoming session. During the treatment, make yourself comfortable. The practitioner will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm). Many people just close their eyes and completely relax, communicating if/when they need more or less pressure, another blanket, or anything else relevant to the session. If you have any questions regarding the session or about the particular technique you are receiving, feel free to ask.
How will I feel after the massage or bodywork session?
Most people feel very relaxed and often report feeling "lighter". Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days.
What are the benefits of massage and polarity therapy?
Massage, polarity therapy, and holistic bodywork can help release chronic muscular tension and pain, improve circulation, increase joint flexibility, reduce mental and physical fatigue and stress, promote faster healing of injured muscular tissue, improve posture, and reduce blood pressure. All three are also known to promote better sleep, improve concentration, reduce anxiety and create an overall sense of well-being.
Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable?
Yes. That's why it's imperative that, before you begin your session, the practitioner asks general health questions. It is very important that you inform the practitioner of any health problems or medications you are taking. If you are under a doctor's care, it is strongly advised that you receive a written recommendation for massage or bodywork prior to any session. Depending on the condition, approval from your doctor may be required.
Where are you located and where do I park?
I am located at 15 Sky View Dr, Cumberland Foreside, ME (Google map search "Crystal Renewal Holistic Bodywork". Searching my business name will better help other clients find my space in the future.)
When I arrive, how do I access you?
Park on the upper level where the entrance to the Integrated Health Center is and text me when you arrive, stay in your car, and I will come out the front entrance to greet you no earlier than 5 minutes prior to your appointment so I can escort you in.
Do I need to arrive early?
No, please do not arrive earlier unless you and I have specifically discussed an alternate plan for you.
What forms of payment do you accept?
I accept personal checks, cash, or payment through VENMO app (username: CrystalRenewal)
What measures are you taking due to COVID-19?
All clients are required to read and comply with new protocols, which are outlined in the booking confirmation email. This includes limited belongings brought into the facility, required hand washing, limited touching of door handles, required cloth masks, and limited talking.