Matsu Massage Therapy

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some massage FAQs (frequently asked questions).  If you have other questions, please feel free to email me: matsumassage@yahoo.com

This is my first massage, what should I expect?

When you arrive at the salon, you will be asked to complete a brief but comprehensive intake form. This information is important in tailoring your massage session .  I will then walk with you to my massage room, give you basic instructions as to where to put your things,  and how to lie comfortably on the massage table.  I will ask more questions to determine your main goals for this massage session , such as headache relief, low back pain relief, or stress relief.  I will then leave the room while you undress, and knock on the door to make sure you are on the table and under the covering before I re-enter.

Do I have to undress completely?

The level of undress is totally up to the client. Many clients undress completely, draping is used and only the part of the body being massaged is uncovered.  Many clients also prefer to leave their underwear on, this is fine too! Most women remove their bra, as this allows better access to the back muscles . *** If you leave your socks on,  please let me know if you still want your feet massaged.  Some clients leave socks on as an indication they don’t want their feet worked on that day.***

What is the room like?

The massage room is spacious, nicely decorated, quiet, and with soft lights. The massage table is heated and padded, very comfortable. Soft and relaxing music plays in the background.

Do I get a full 60 (30, 90) minutes if I book an hour massage?

Yes.  Your session time begins when you are on the table. I allow time for filling out the intake, and time for my clients to use the restroom before the session.  If you arrive late for your appointment, then that could possibly cause your appointment time to be shortened. 

Is there anything I need to do to prepare before I  arrive for my massage?

It is a good idea to be well hydrated, as water helps to flush toxins released by massage out of your system, and also keeps the muscles hydrated. This doesn’t mean you have to drink a lot right before your session, as 60 or  90 minutes can be a while and most clients do not want to get up during their session.  Ladies, shaving your legs is optional, it is one of the most frequent apologies I hear from clients, and  trust me, it is not a big deal if you have stubble!

Does massage hurt?

For the most part, no. Many of my clients fall asleep! Feel free to do so, it is the best sleep in the world!

 Sometimes when an area is particularly tense, the client will feel some discomfort while it is being worked. This discomfort should always be a “good pain”.  If at any time you feel like you are tensing up, or wishing I would ease up, or otherwise more than a very bearable minor discomfort, then that  is too much pressure, or I need to work it a different way. Please let me know. The same is true if you want more pressure at any time, please let me know. Harder pressure is occasionally  more effective, but not always.  If you request it, I will comply at my discretion, based on the information you have given me on your intake, personal dialogue, and the way your muscle tissue feels to me.

How often should I get a massage?

That really depends on what your goals are, and your budget. If you are working on pain relief, you will want to schedule more frequent sessions,  perhaps once or twice a week in the beginning, then stretching the sessions out as we achieve results.  For clients needing major stress relief, once a week is perfect, gradually going to bi-weekly, then perhaps monthly.  For general tension relief, once a month is great for a lot of clients, others  can  come in every two months and  achieve great results.

Can I talk during my massage?

Yes. Many of my clients come in for stress relief, and choose to sleep or just “zone out” during the massage.  I don’t initiate conversation for that reason, unless I have a specific question concerning your massage, but you can talk and ask questions if you like. Also, your comfort is important to me. If you need anything, such as tissue,  more cover, extra pillow, water, or are feeling ticklish in an area, don’t hesitate to say so.

What type of massage technique will you use?

When you ask a massage therapist, "What type of massage do you do?", it is sometimes very hard to answer, even to another massage therapist that might know the technique (s) studied. My best answer is I tailor your massage to  what you and your body needs. I use Swedish, deep tissue, trigger point, and other therapies to give you the best massage.

Do you accept insurance?

At this time, I can provide you with a  receipt, but I do  not bill insurance.