Frequently Asked Questions
Swedish Massage is the most common type of massage offered by therapists. The technique involves the whole body and promotes relaxation by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system (i.e. the rest and relaxation part of your nervous system. This encourages release of muscle tension and stimulates endorphins in the brain.
Clients will start either face down (prone) or face up (supine), and turn over half way through the massage. You will be draped (i.e. covered with a sheet) for the duration of the session. Only areas being worked will be uncovered. Oil or lotion is used to allow for smooth, gliding strokes. Swedish Massage is used for relaxation, increase blood circulation and lymph drainage. It may help with depression and anxiety.
Therapeutic Massage describes modalities that relieve pain and soreness, reduce stress, and target specific problem areas (for example very tight shoulders or back). Therapeutic massage gets the blood circulating and helps break down adhesions in the muscle tissue. Modalities may include deep tissue massage, trigger point work, stretching or any combination of these.
If you wish to add additions (for example, cupping or CBD), just inform me at the time you book the appointment or when you arrive.
The proper term is Massage Therapist. To be licensed, a massage therapist must train and graduate from an accredited program, pass the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx), pass a background check and maintain licensure with their home state licensing board (In Texas this is TDLR, in California this is CAMTC). In addition, a LMT is required to take continuing education courses and report those CEU hours to the licensing board of their state.
I graduated with honors from Avalon School of Massage in Houston, Texas. After graduating, I went on to join the faculty at Avalon, where I’ve taught courses in Pathology, Health & Hygiene, and Swedish Massage.
I’ve furthered my training in Cupping, Gua Sha, Reflexology, and Manual Lymphatic Drainage. I am also certified by the American Red Cross as a First Aid/ CPR/ AED Instructor, am a NASM Certified Personal Trainer, and a member of the American Massage Therapy Association.
I’ve worked as an LMT privately, at several spas and massage franchises, as well as offer chair massage at special events, conventions and festivals.
As a solo practitioner, it is my practice to focus on individual massage sessions rather than couples massage.
Yes – I am happy to provide Pre-Natal Massage services. I am equipped to accommodate Side-Lying massage positions for your comfort and convenience. I have had the pleasure of serving many happy mothers-to-be throughout their pregnancy.
Unfortunately, I do not currently offer hot stone massage. While this modality is known for its ability to soothe muscles utilizing hot basalt stones, I have found that dealing with the stones can be quite cumbersome and messy. Additionally, I have found that the heat from the stones does not last long enough to provide the full range of benefits that my clients are seeking. However, I am happy to discuss other massage techniques and modalities that may be more suited to your needs and provide a similarly relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
For your first session, you will be required to fill out an intake form. This intake form asks for your contact information, health history, areas you would like focused on or conditions needing to be addressed. It is important to list all medical history and any medications you use, so that I can tailor your session to your specific needs without causing any harm. It is also important to specify any allergies you have so I can adjust the cream or oil used and the aromatherapy in the room.
You will be given a moment of privacy to undress to your comfort level and then you will lay down on the padded massage table. I generally ask people to begin face down so I can begin with your back neck and shoulders. This is where 90% of people wish me to focus – but I can accommodate your needs. I will move through the body massaging the arms hands, legs and feet. I can do some trigger point on the glutes and piriformis muscle.
After your massage, it’s important to drink water and allow your body time to relax. Get a good night sleep and be mindful of self care in the days ahead.
You may undress to your comfort level. Many people prefer to be nude under the linens, while others keep their underwear on. This is entirely up to you. I do suggest women remove their bra, so your back is fully exposed. You will be given a moment of privacy to undress and lie down on the massage table under the top sheet. I will always use proper draping techniques so that you never feel exposed.
Massage should not hurt. In therapeutic (deep tissue) massage, there may be movements of intensity while I work the muscle and encourage it to release. Many clients refer to this as the “hurts so good” moment. 😆 But if there is ever sharp pain, or the pressure needs to lighten up, be sure to speak up and let me know. I am always happy to adjust, so that you are comfortable and able to relax.
I ask that you be mindful about hygiene (i.e. please shower or bathe, brush your teeth, wear deodorant, etc.). I also ask that you refrain from wearing perfumes, colognes or strong scents, and please don’t smoke prior to your appointment.
I don’t expect you to remove body hair (regardless of gender), have perfectly manicured nails, and you can skip the make-up (you’ll be face down for at least half of your session). Please be comfortable. My studio is a safe, judgement-free space for everyone.
Gratuity is appreciated. It’s customary to tip 18 – 25%, just as you would a server at a restaurant or your hair stylist.
Massage isn’t going to “cure” any medical condition you have, or magically take all your tension away forever. What massage does do is stimulate your parasympathetic nervous system (the rest and relaxation part of the nervous system). This can help with depression, anxiety, and help manage tension and stress.
A single massage session will certainly provide benefits, and the more frequently you receive massage, the longer lasting the benefits will be. Receiving massage every 2 to 4 weeks can help your muscles stay loose, prevent injuries, and allow your mind to release stress. Massage can also help you recover faster from exercise and sports.
► I fall asleep (or snore, or drool)?
Lot’s of people fall asleep during their massage. It means you are relaxing and feel safe. Snore away!
► I need to go to the restroom?
Just let me know and we’ll take a quick break. Don’t feel like you have to hold it.
► I get an erection?
It’s no big deal. This can happen as an involuntary reflex during a massage. Just relax and don’t worry about it.
► I’m running late?
If you are running late, please call or text me. I will have to decrease your session time, however. For example, if you’ve booked an hour massage and run 10 minutes late, you will receive a 50 minute massage. You will be responsible for the full session fee. This is only fair to the next client after you. Traffic in Houston sucks, please plan accordingly.
► I’m sick?
If you are sick, please reschedule you massage. If you have a cold, are running a fever or have anything contagious, please wait until you are fully recovered (i.e. not contagious) before receiving a massage.
► I have a rash, wart or other skin issue?
Please just let me know. Again, there’s no judgement with me, but it may be necessary to avoid certain skin issues so that spreading or irritation doesn’t occur.
If you get hot, I can remove the blanket or turn off the table warmer, at your request. You must be covered by the top sheet, but I can expose your feet to allow ventilation.
If you get cold, I can adjust the table warmer or add layers to your draping for more warmth.