Must I be completely undressed?
Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
Will I be covered during the session?
What parts of my body will be massaged?
What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
Are there different kinds of massage and bodywork?
What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?
How will I feel after the massage or bodywork session?
What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?
Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable?
Must I be completely undressed?
Most massage and bodywork 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 draped (covered with a sheet) for your comfort and modesty during the entire session.
Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
I will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a freshly cleaned sheet and blanket.
Will I be covered during the session?
You will be draped with a sheet and blanket at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed.
What parts of my body will be massaged?
A typical full-body session only excludes your gluteal cleft (butt crack), breast tissue and genitals. Often, as time is a consideration, the stomach area (belly) is also excluded in favor of spending more time on another area. I will ask for your verbal concent when an area that is commonly guarded needs to be specifically addressed.
What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
In Lomilomi the 'hands on' portion of your session will start with your back, as your back represents your future; and so I clear a space for you to move forward into. It begins with some gentle rocking and a pule or prayer. Afterwords I will adjust the drape to gain access to your back and apply the oil with light flowing strokes that resemble the ocean waves flowing up the beach then receding back to sea. This also helps 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. The oil not only reduces the friction to provide glide but also helps hydrate and nourish your skin. Depending on the focus of our session the time spent in various ares will varry. At some point I may ask you to move (side-lying or face up) to gain access to new areas or change the direction I can apply pressure. You should communicate immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken. Massage and bodywork are most effective when you are able to fully relax so 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 massage, feel free to ask me any questions about the technique or the upcoming session. During the massage, make yourself comfortable. I 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. 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. It is posable to feel sore after a deep massage, but it should resemble the aches associated with exercise, and go away in a day or two.
What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?
Massage and 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. Massage and bodywork is 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 we begin your session, I ask general health questions. It is very important that you inform me 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.