Frequently Asked Questions

The most common question of all is:

Q: What are the benefits of massage?

A: Many studies have shown that massage reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol while boosting the feel-good hormones serotonin and dopamine, which may also mean less stress, anxiety and depression. Researchers at the Group Health Center for Health Studies in Seattle found that massage works better for lower back pain than common treatments like chiropractic therapy and acupuncture; Even though a client may choose to use more than one therapy. Dr. Tiffany Field, PhD, director of the Touch Research Institute at the University Of Miami School Of Medicine, says “Massage also seems to ease distress from migraine, labor pain and even cancer.”

Massage also helps ward off bugs by boosting your “natural killer cells,” the immune system’s first line of defense against invading illness. A small study of 24 women with severe PMS found that massage reduced symptoms such as pain, water retention, and mood swings.

Q: What do I wear?

A: Wear comfortable clothing to the appointment. As for during the treatment you can wear as much or as little as you want, but less clothing means more access for the therapist to do her/his work. The therapist will drape your body with a blanket or sheet and remove it only from the specific area being worked.

Q: What should I tell the therapist?

A: It’s not required by law, but most therapists will ask you to complete a medical-history form and then discuss your medical background, treatment preferences, and concerns. Mention anything that’s on your mind. If you have sensitive skin, for instance, ask about the oil used during treatment. Speak up!

Q: Does massage hurt the next day?

A: In the first 24 hours, you may have mild soreness, a “massage hangover.” Drinking a lot of water during the day or so after your massage may help.

Q: Do I have to grin and bear it if the massage hurts?

A: No, it is your massage and you should be comfortable. There may be soreness during the massage on certain areas that may be extra tight, (which is sometimes call the good pain), but if it does not feel good to you, feel free to speak up and ask the therapist to lighten up.

Q: Why do I always fall asleep?

A: Another Touch Research Institute study found that massage increases delta waves in the brain (those linked with deep sleep) which is why many people fall asleep or feel like taking a nap after their massage.

Q: Which massage is best for me? What kind of massage do you do?

A: The best way to answer that is to tell you about each type of Massage offered by Chappaz Massage:

Swedish

If you just ask for a massage, it’s probably what you’re getting. Expect long, gentle, soothing strokes-and general relaxation. Its hallmark is improved circulation. The therapist will use her hands and fingertips and not push too hard (unless you like a lot of pressure).

Deep Tissue (a.k.a. Sports Massage)

It’s more intense than Swedish-and it’s not just for athletes. The therapist targets the muscles and tendons just under the skin and the deeper ones by using more pressure from the fingertips or elbows and forearms. Stretches may be included.

Q: Is massage sensual?

A: It should never be sensual or sexual in a professional setting. Sensual massage should be reserved for consenting partners in the privacy of their own home only. A professional massage therapist should be very clear about what is to be expected from the treatment. They should only be there to provide relaxation, address pain issues or both.

Q: Should I tip and if so, how much?

A: Tipping is not required, however, if you feel you would like to give a tip it is usually customary to tip 10-20% depending on your satisfaction with the massage experience.