FAQs
(Frequently Asked Questions)
Here are some issues that you or clients may have wondered about. If it is not answered here, please contact Marci with your questions, comments, or concerns. Harmony Garden Massage Therapy makes every effort to provide the answer, find the answer, or refer you to the best resource. Thank You!
What should I expect during a massage?
Expect to be treated in a professional manner and provided with massage, bodywork, and or spa treatments in a tranquil, safe, clean, and nurturing environment. This private treatment room has a fountain, soft lighting and relaxing music playing while you lie on a specially designed table for your comfort.
How much time should I allow for my appointment?
If you are a new client and this is your first appointment, it is suggested that you allow an additional 15 minutes at the beginning of your session to complete a short form and for consultation. Harmony Garden Massage Therapy ensures you receive your full session time on the table.
For returning clients, 5-10 minutes is usually sufficient to go over any information necessary to be sure we have an effective, relaxed session and appropriate atmosphere.
It is requested that you be on time for your session. There is no need to arrive earlier than your scheduled time although you are welcome to do so. Plenty of time is reserved for each client's consultation and table time, room reset and for the massage therapist to refresh for the next client.
Will I be draped during my session?
YES. Harmony Garden Massage Therapy respects the client’s boundaries and uses proper draping techniques at all times to keep you comfortable and warm. Marci will only undrape the portion of your body being worked on and re-drape that portion before moving on to the next body part.
Do I have to remove all of my clothes?
We want you to be able to relax during your, bodywork and/or spa treatment session. If you are unable to relax, you may defeat the whole purpose for receiving bodywork in the first place. Please undress to your comfort level and remember you are covered at all times except for the portion of your body being worked on. Marci is always willing to discuss your individual needs to achieve the best possible outcome of your session.
Is the massage practitioner in the room while I remove my clothes?
NO. Marci will leave the room and give you your privacy to get on the table. Before leaving the room instructions are provided for where to put your clothes and personal belongings and how to position yourself on the table. Marci will knock on the door before re-entering the room to begin your session.
Will massage lotion or oil be used?
YES. Massage practitioners use lubricant (lotion, oil, or a combination of the two) to create glide and prevent friction or pulling on the skin or body hair. Only the highest quality lotions, carrier oils, and essential oils are used. Products are either organic, all natural, vegetarian or vegan (no animal or animal by-products).
Are essential oils used?
If you prefer aromatherapy, Harmony Garden Massage Therapy offers Aromatherapy Massage to totally indulge your senses and well being with the finest quality organic and/or all natural essential oils added to enhance your total massage experience.
In addition, aromatherapy may be added to any treatment for a small fee.
Are there any side effects to massage?
YES. At Harmony Garden Massage Therapy, the goal is to feel better when you leave than you did when you arrived. This massage practice does not promote hurting after your session or for days afterwards. If there is muscle or tissue damage or you suffer from chronic pain, there may be some discomfort during tissue and joint manipulation during the session. Let us work together for the best beneficial outcome of your session. Please do not allow the massage practitioner to go any deeper than “good pain”.
Some client’s sinuses may get a bit stuffy while lying face down. Marci has several techniques to assist you. You may also experience emotional release. This is perfectly normal and perfectly OK.
Why do massage therapists always encourage me to drink plenty of water?
Massage not only does the obvious, relieves muscle aches and tension and relaxes the recipient it also increases circulation and works on the lymph system, assisting our immune system. Drinking water flushes toxins out of our systems, waste and bacteria that can cause disease. It lubricates and can reduce joint and/or back pain. Water increases metabolism and regulates appetite to maintain a healthy body weight. Water aids digestion and prevents constipation. Water increases energy levels and prevents dehydration. Best of all, water naturally moisturizes skin and gives it a healthy glow.
Here’s an easy way to try and drink enough water daily. Because some people are larger and some people are smaller, try this easy formula I found years ago:
Take your body weight divided by two. The resulting number is the minimum amount of water, in ounces, to drink each day. Example, if you weigh 128lbs., divided by 2 = 64. 64oz divided by 8oz. = 8, 8oz glasses of water every day.
How often should I get a massage?
The more often a person receives massage, the better that person will feel as the muscles have memory. Many people find it most beneficial to arrange a regularly scheduled session and do so once a week, once every other week or once a month. It gives them something to look forward to and creates a sense of well being. Marci offers several Serenity Specials so that you may receive massage as often as you like. Let someone you know you would like to receive a gift certificate from Harmony Garden Massage Therapy for birthdays, anniversaries, to say “thank you” and for any special occasion.
Do you get massage?
YES. I practice for my whole health what I encourage others to do for theirs. I get massage a minimum of once a month. Twice a month is preferred and my personal goal is once a week when it can be scheduled. My personal favorite is a 90-minute swedish massage.
