1. I’m thinking about a prenatal massage. Do you have any special prenatal massage training, experience and/or certification?
Yes, we do. I realized fairly early in my own career, that the standard massage school prenatal training wasn't good enough, so I sought out Carol Osborne Sheets. who is considered the best in this business when it comes to pre and perinatal massage training. As a spa owner, I require all of my staff get their training with Carol before working on the pregnant body.
2. Do you use massage tables with holes for my belly for your prenatal massages?
No, we don’t use those tables with holes. Tables that provide a hole in which the uterus can fit may not be reliable and can still apply pressure to the abdomen, or allow the abdomen to dangle, causing uncomfortable stretching of the uterine ligaments. We have even heard stories of women stuck in those tables.
When it comes to lying on your stomach, based on our experience at Sage, eight weeks is about the limit, though of course much it depends upon your size and personal comfort. You CAN extend your on-your tummy-time for a few weeks by lying face down in a specially designed cushion called the BodyCushion; but, we don’t recommend it past the first trimester after which time we will switch to the sidelying position.
3. I’ve gotten prenatal massages before and they are always so light. Can I get a deep tissue massage because I’m used to that and I feel it’s what I need?
Getting deep tissue massage on your upper body is almost never a problem during pregnancy. Sometimes deep tissue around your sacrum must be avoided because of the contraindicated reflex points there. A well-trained, confident prenatally-certified therapist should be able to safely give you at least some of the deep tissue work you desire.
4. When comes to deep tissue massage, I like really deep pressure. Do you work deep?
Not a problem, we all do deep tissue massage., and we can make you weep if that’s what you really want.
When it comes to Deep Tissue Massage, we require our entire staff to get extra deep tissue training (something lacking in many massage schools) so they can perfect deep tissue skills and learn how to prevent personal injury.
NOTE: It may surprise you to learn that knots often respond far better to gentle even pressure than to a hammer. Muscle tenses up when it's attacked directly with deep pressure; that’s why it hurts so much. It's the same reaction you would have if attacked; you would tense up too. Often, It’s the gentle hand that wins the battle and brings much needed relief. .......Just a thought to keep it in mind next time you ask us to bear down.
5. Should I do anything special before my massage?
In that you will be lying down for an hour or so, part of that time on your belly, we think that it’s not a good idea to eat a big meal before your massage, you might be uncomfortable. We also suggest that use the restroom before you begin, so you won’t have to interrupt your massage. That’s about it.
6. Is there anything I should do after my massage?
Get up slowly, and drink lots of water. You may feel woozy or light-headed for a bit as the lactic acid released from those tight muscles enters your bloodstream. That feeling will fade shortly. Most people get up, feeling very relaxed, and a bit unfocused. Try to give yourself some time before you drive a car, or jump back into your work. Let the relaxation soak into your pores so you get the full benefits of that massage.
7. I’m uncomfortable taking off my clothes. Can I still get a massage?
Of course you can. You dictate your comfort level of undress at all times. Don’t let anyone tell you differently. You will be draped with a sheet, but if you still feel uncomfortable, perhaps you would enjoy a shiatsu massage? This ancient oriental massage works by applying pressure and stretches to the body- even though your clothes. We also have foot massages or just neck and back if that is what you want.
8. Can massage help with medical issue like TMJ, headache, and sinusitis?
Most definitely. TMJ and sinus both affect the muscles of the face, neck and upper back. In time, those muscles begin to affect the surrounding tissues, which can quickly create a negative feedback loop:
Pain -> Muscle Tension Lack of Blood Flow/Disease--> Pain
Massage can help with the tension and knots, helping to relax muscles, and restore proper blood flow to your tissues, which relieves your pain. Whenever you get a diagnosis of sinusitis, TMJ or severe headache, visit your doctor and make sure to rule out common sources of jaw and headache pain stemming from infections, injury.
9. What exactly is a hot stone massage?
Our Hot Stone Massage is a deeply soothing specialty massage, that uses smooth, heated volcanic stones to both relax tight muscles & detoxify you. We don't just heat stones and place them on your body, we fully incorporate the hot stones into your actual treatment by skillfully moving them under our hands, as we massage your body. The heat soothes your cold body,and also acts as a natural painkiller, promotes mental well-being, relaxes the mind, and helps cure insomnia.
10. I see tip envelopes at the desk. How much should I tip my therapist?
15-20% is industry standard- much like a tip for good service at a restaurant. If you are unhappy for any reason, please do not feel obligated to tip, though we would appreciate that you let us know so we can address the problem and make amends.
