Sapphire Lotus FAQ
What are the benefits of Massage Therapy?
Just to name a few- Stress Relief, Reducing Anxiety, Pain Relief (Low Back Pain, Fibromyalgia, Neck Stiffness, Migraines, Headaches, Arthritis, the list goes on); Better Sleep, Increased Circulation, Lowers Blood Pressure, Increase Joint Range of Motion and so many more! Benefits vary from person to person.
Who should get a Massage?
Everyone with skin! Jokes aside, Massage is beneficial for everyone, young, older and everyone in between! Massage Therapy can be beneficial for people of all ages, activity levels, occupations, and lifestyles. Whether you're looking to relax, manage muscular tension/discomfort, improve mobility, or simply incorporate massage into your wellness routine, your session can be customized for you!
What is Therapeutic, Swedish & Integrated Massage Therapy?
Therapeutic & Integrated Massage Therapy is a customized approach to massage based on your individual needs, goals, and preferences. Rather than choosing a specific “type” of massage or pressure level, a variety of assessments, techniques, and modalities may be integrated throughout your session as appropriate. Pressure and techniques are adjusted based on your comfort and what your body needs that day. Swedish typically incorporates lighter to moderate touch and flowing techniques to promote relaxation and down-regulate the nervous system. Please visit the TEAM MEMBERS page to decide which therapist may be the best fit for your preferences.
Do you need to choose between relaxation and therapeutic massage?
No! Therapeutic massage can still be relaxing. Your session is customized to you and may incorporate both relaxation and more focused therapeutic work. You do not need to choose between the two when booking. Please communicate your expectations on your intake form and prior to each session, so your therapist can customize your session to what you want and need.
Does therapeutic massage mean deep pressure?
No. Deeper pressure is not always better or more effective. Pressure can range from light to deep depending on the area being addressed, your comfort, your goals, and what is appropriate for the tissue. Pressure can also be adjusted at any time during your session.
What’s the difference between a 60, 75, and 90 minute massage?
Every session is customized regardless of length. A 60-minute session provides time for a full-body massage or focused therapeutic work. A 75-minute session allows additional time to address areas of concern while incorporating more comprehensive work. A 90-minute session provides the most time to address multiple areas, incorporate additional techniques, and work without feeling rushed. If you’re unsure which session length would be best for you, feel free to ask!
Will the therapist only work on the area where you're experiencing pain?
Not necessarily. The area where you feel discomfort may not always be the only area contributing to it. Muscles, fascia, joints, movement patterns, and surrounding structures can all influence how an area feels. Your session may include assessment and work in related areas to address tension, mobility, and soft-tissue restrictions more comprehensively. Your therapist will communicate with you about what is being addressed and why. Remember, everything is connected!
What should you wear for your massage?
You may undress to your personal comfort level. You will remain appropriately draped throughout the session, with only the area being worked on uncovered. Certain assessments, stretching, joint movements, or other techniques may also be performed while clothed. If gym clothes are needed for your session, your therapist will let you know. Your comfort and privacy are always respected.
Is massage supposed to hurt?
No. Effective therapeutic massage does not have to be painful. Some areas may feel tender or sensitive, particularly when addressing areas of tension or restriction, but the goal is never to have you endure excessive pain. Please communicate at any time if something feels uncomfortable so pressure or technique can be adjusted.
Will you be sore after your massage?
Some people may experience temporary tenderness or soreness following therapeutic massage, particularly after more focused work, but significant pain is not the goal. How you respond can vary depending on the techniques used, your activity level, areas addressed, and your individual body. Please reach out if you ever have concerns about how you’re feeling following a session.
How often should you receive massage therapy?
There isn’t one schedule that’s appropriate for everyone. How frequently you receive massage depends on your individual goals, activity level, areas of concern, response to treatment, lifestyle, and budget. Some clients benefit from more frequent sessions for a period of time, while others choose massage primarily for maintenance or general wellness. We can discuss what schedule makes the most sense for you.
What if you have an injury, recent surgery, or medical condition?
Please let your therapist know about any relevant injuries, surgeries, medical conditions, medications, or changes in your health before your session. Massage can often be modified to accommodate individual circumstances, but certain conditions may require changes to your session, postponement, or clearance/referral from a healthcare provider. Your safety always comes first.
What if you're sick on the day of your appointment?
If you’re experiencing a fever, vomiting, diarrhea, contagious illness, or otherwise feeling acutely unwell, please contact your therapist directly to reschedule your appointment. Massage is not recommended while you’re actively ill, and rescheduling also helps protect other clients and practitioners within the center.
What is the cancellation and no-show policy?
Your appointment time is reserved specifically for you. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please provide as much notice as possible. Appointments canceled or rescheduled outside of the permitted cancellation window, as well as missed appointments, are subject to a 75% cancellation/no-show fee in accordance with Sapphire Lotus Massage LLC’s cancellation policy. The other independent therapists maintain their own cancellation and no-show policies. Please refer to your therapist's individual policy when scheduling.
Is massage therapy a substitute for medical care?
No. Massage therapy can be a valuable part of your wellness and self-care routine, but it is not a substitute for evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment by an appropriate healthcare provider.
If your symptoms are outside the scope of massage therapy or indicate that further evaluation may be appropriate, you may be encouraged to consult with another healthcare professional.
Do you have to talk during your massage?
No! Your session is your time. You’re welcome to talk, relax quietly, or even fall asleep. Your therapist will check in as needed regarding pressure, positioning, techniques, or anything relevant to your session, but there is absolutely no expectation to carry on a conversation.
What should you expect?
Once you arrive, you are free to use the restroom if needed or have a seat in the lobby. New clients will discuss the intake form with the therapist regarding goals, pressure preferences, areas of concern, and anything else relevant to the session. Your therapist will instruct you how to lie on the table and the areas that will be massaged- (neck, arms, legs/feet, and back is standard, unless otherwise discussed) and you will be left alone to dress down to your comfort level, and get comfortable on the table under the provided sheet/blanket, then the therapist will knock and ask if you are ready for the therapist to come back into the room, to begin the session. Appropriate draping will be maintained throughout your session.
How should you prepare for your Massage?
There isn't much you need to do! Avoid alcohol before your appointment, and stay hydrated with water before and after.
Which way do you begin lying on the table?
Typically, unless otherwise discussed, most therapists begin with the client lying face up. Of course, there are always exceptions, depending on preference and needs.
Should you exercise before or after?
If you’d like to exercise on the day of your massage, we recommend exercising prior to your massage.