Common questions
about massage

1. What kind of space will my bodywork session be in?
2. How undressed do I need to get?
3. Will the practitioner be present when I get undressed?
4. Will I be covered during the entire session?
5. Will I be covered during the entire session?
6. What parts of my body will be treated?
7. What kind of touch can I expect?
8. What should I do during the bodywork session?
9. What are the benefits of therapeutic massage and bodywork?
10. Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable?

1. What kind of space will my session be in?

Gisela works in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music may be played to help you relax. You will lie on a massage table designed to completely support your body.

2. How undressed do I need to get?

Most bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed. However, it is entirely up to your comfort level at the time of the session, and it may change from session to session! You should wear comfortable, stretchy clothing and undress to the degree you feel comfortable. You will be properly draped with a sheet during the entire session.

3. Will the practitioner be present when I get undressed?

The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, get onto the table, and cover yourself with the clean sheet that's provided. She will knock before opening the door to make sure you're ready.

4. Will I be covered during the entire session?

You will be properly draped with sheets or towels at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed, and the sheet or towel will be tucked in to minimize drafts and gaps.

5. What parts of my body will be treated?

A typical full-body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders. If you have selected add-on services like abdominal or therapeutic breast massage, those areas will be carefully and conscientiously undraped at the moment of treatment, with your consent.

6. What kind of touch can I expect?

There are numerous types of massage and bodywork; various techniques utilize different strokes, including basic rubbing strokes, rocking movement, cupping therapy, posture and movement re-education, and more. Gisela will discuss which methods may be most appropriate for you.

7. What should I do during the bodywork session?

At the beginning of the session, feel free to ask Gisela any questions about her techniques 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 at any point during the session. You can also message Gisela with questions afterward.

8. 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 right away. Others might feel a little increased sensation, like soreness, in areas that had deeper work. After an initial period of feeling slower, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days. You can message Gisela with any questions afterward.

9. What are the benefits of therapeutic 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 are also known to promote better sleep, improve concentration, reduce anxiety, and create an overall sense of well-being.

10. Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable?

Yes. That's why it's imperative that, before you begin your session, you answer any health-related questions the practitioner asks. It is very important that you inform the practitioner 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.