Frequently Asked Questions

When you arrive for your first visit, I will have you fill out a confidential massage intake form.  This generally takes under 5 minutes to complete.   Along with your contact information, it has questions about expectations and goals for seeking massage as well as a general health assessment.  This helps me to determine best approach to your session or to discover any health issues that may require special consideration during your session. Once the intake form is completed, I will talk with you about any specific issues or areas of concerns you want to focus on during your massage session.   At that point, I will leave the room while you get on the massage table.   The massage will normally begin with you face down on the table.

Yes.  Your massage is provided on a professional massage table with a heated pad and clean linens for your comfort. I use bolsters and a headrest for added comfort during your session if desired.

I also travel with my table when providing mobile (outcall) massage sessions at a location other than my studio. You should have an approximate open area of 6′ x 10′ for me to set up the table and comfortably conduct the massage.

This is completely up to you.  Your comfort during the session is most important.  You can be undressed to the level of your comfort. For a full body massage, most of my clients are nude under the draping, but you may wear underwear if you are more comfortable.  You will be draped during your session except for the area being worked on.

It is always better to schedule as far in advance as possible to ensure availability.  I can schedule as far into the future as you would like. Some clients have standing weekly or monthly sessions, while most are more random.  I understand that not everyone’s schedule is predictable.

I am happy to accommodate last minute requests if my schedule allows.  It never hurts to contact me if you find yourself in need of a last-minute massage.  Scheduling your appointment by phone or text is best in this situation.  Unless I am in session with a client, I always attempt to respond quickly to last-minute requests.

Yes.  Personal hygiene is very important, and I recommend that you be freshly showered before your session.  You are welcome to use my shower before and/or after your session. It is conveniently located next to the massage studio.  I provide a clean towel and robe for your use.

I use unscented hypoallergenic Advanced Therapy Massage Lotion from Biotone. They have very little to no detectable scent.   They leave your skin soft and moisturized after your session without a heavy oil feeling. I cannot guarantee you will not have a reaction, but please let me know if you have sensitivity to certain types of lotions/ingredients.

You are welcome to bring your own massage lubricant if you have a favorite you prefer I use during your session.

Just lay there!  Once you are comfortably on the table, your job is to simply allow yourself to relax.  If I need to adjust your position, I will either move you or ask you to move what is needed.  Depending on the goal of your session, I may incorporate stretching which might involve some active participation.   Many people close their eyes and relax completely during a session; others prefer to talk; some even fall asleep. It’s up to you.  Please feel free to ask questions at any time or let me know if you are feeling any discomfort during your session.

That depends on the goals of your massage session.  For most sessions, clients come to me for a combination of relaxation and deeper therapeutic work.  I primarily use a combination of Swedish massage techniques and deep tissue.  Flowing strokes of Swedish techniques help calm your nervous system and relax muscles. As the area being worked becomes relaxed, focused pressure will be increased to work out muscle tension and adhesions (knots).  It is at this point that clients might feel some discomfort or even some pain.  It is important to communicate if at anytime it is too much, so I can adjust the pressure or take a different approach.

Most people feel very relaxed and even a bit tired. After a period, clients often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity that can last for days. A few clients report feeling a little “sore, but a good sore” the next morning. This will usually dissipate after you start moving around for the day.  You should never feel like you have been “beaten up”.

I recommended drinking plenty of water following massage to keep your muscles and tissue well hydrated to reduce any potential soreness.

No, there are certain medical conditions that would make massage inappropriate or require a special consideration. It is important that you let me know of any health issues 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 prior to any session.

Massage therapist and a masseur are pretty much the same.  Massage therapist is a more favored term because we do provide therapeutic and health benefits through massage.  A masseur refers specifically to a male massage therapist.

I am located on the far east side of Madison, WI just a couple blocks north of Milwaukee street on Daffodil Ln.   Since I work from my home, I don't include the address on my website for safety and privacy reasons.   I am happy to give my address when you contact me directly.

My home studio is on the main floor of a ranch style home with a ramp from the driveway to the front entrance, with a small step up over the front door threshold.  Once inside, there are hardwood floors making it easier for wheeled assistant devices.  Though the bathroom is next door to the massage studio, it is small and not accessible using a wheelchair.

If the lack of full accessibility of my studio is a challenge, I am available to provide mobile / outcall massage sessions at your location.

Yes.  My studio is located on a quiet residential street where there is always parking available.  You are also welcome to park in my driveway behind my car.