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Is there any scientific proof of benefits?
Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
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?

Is there any scientific proof of benefits from receiving massage?
There have been numerous studies that show marked changes in blood pressure, anxiety, depression, immune function, pain relief and other benefits from receiving massage. Here are some examples: Links to Scientific Evidence
 

Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music will be playing to help you relax. You will lie on a table with a gel foam pad, sheets and a blanket-- especially designed for your comfort.

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 properly draped during the entire session.

Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet.

Will I be covered during the session?
You will be properly draped 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 will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders.  Some work may be done on the gluteals and lower back with the sheet still completely covering the body.  Please tell your therapist if you prefer no work done on this area.  Tender Loving Care also performs scalp massage with all sessions and may include CranioSacral techniques if they will benefit the clients symptoms at their session.

What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
In a general Swedish massage, your session will start with broad, flowing strokes that will help 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. You may select gel, lotion or oil for use during the session, which allows your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. By default, Tender Loving Care will use jojoba oil, which is the closest product to human sebum, or skin oil.  Your therapist will check in with you to make sure the pressure being used is a comfortable level.  Massage should not be painful and when removing "knots" from the muscles-- you will probably feel pressure, but at most, the pressure will be slightly uncomfortable.  .

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 the practitioner any questions about the technique or the upcoming session. During the massage, make yourself comfortable. The practitioner 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.  Also feel free to speak up at any time during the session if you are uncomfortable in any way.

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. Since toxins are released from your soft tissues during a massage, it is recommended you drink plenty of water following your massage.