FAQs
If you’ve never had a massage before it’s understandable that you might feel a bit nervous, awkward or have lots of questions.
Take a look at the FAQs below to go through the whole process and help ease any concerns.
Or, feel free to get in touch!
How does the booking process work?
Book online via Fresha to schedule your appointment. Same-day appointments are not available.
You will be asked by our booking platform, Fresha, to secure your appointment with your card details. However, no funds will be taken from the card until you consent to this at the end of our session together.
You will receive a confirmation by e-mail and text with a digital consultation form for you to fill out before your appointment.
A reminder will be sent to you by text the day before your appointment.
How long should I book in for?
It depends on what issues you are dealing with and what stage of your recovery you’re at. 60 minutes is ideal for frequent maintenance of particular areas of tension and managing stress. If you’d like a full body massage then book in for 90 to 120 minutes. This gives us time to work more deeply and across your entire body.
How much space do I need at home for the massage table?
You will need a space that is approximately 2m x 1m for the massage table, as well as space to move around it. Ideally, this will be somewhere warm and quiet on the ground or first floor. Many people move a coffee table out of the way in their living room, or at the foot of their bed. If you have any mobility issues that pose a challenge to this - please let us know well in advance of your appointment.
I feel nervous about a stranger coming to my home!
That’s totally understandable - particularly after the last few years! We have stringent health and hygiene procedures in place to reduce any potential risks as far as possible. You can read about them here.
To put your mind at ease you can also read the many 5-star reviews we’ve been left by happy clients on Fresha, Google, and Facebook. Rest assured you will be in caring, trustworthy hands!
How do I prepare for the massage?
Whatever you can do to feel clean, hydrated and relaxed - a warm shower beforehand is ideal. Feel free to wrap up in your dressing gown too! Avoid eating a heavy meal just before you arrive. Have something light to eat no less than an hour beforehand to avoid discomfort.
What happens when you arrive at my house?
I will arrive at your appointment time with the massage table and everything we need to have a beautiful treatment. I’ll need around 10-15 minutes to get set up - you don’t need to help at all with this - and then we can begin!
What happens during a treatment?
We will sit down and have a good chat about what’s going on for you at the moment and anything that came up on your consultation form. This is an opportunity for you to share any issues you’re having and what you’d like support with.
This will give me a good understanding of how I can tailor your session to your needs. I’ll explain what I’d like to do and why, and discuss if this is something you’re open to.
I will talk you through every step of the process so there are no surprises or unanswered questions, and to help you to feel empowered and relaxed.
What kind of massage do you offer?
I’ve trained in a wide range of massage approaches and over the years have developed a personal style - as most experienced massage therapists tend to do. I would best describe it as a hybrid between deep tissue, lomi-lomi and myofascial release. It’s slow and soothing - but also very effective at treating pain and stress.
Do I have to undress?
My priority is your comfort - so let this guide you. For some this is down to their underwear, others prefer to go nude - I’m fine with either. Effective work can be done through your clothing, however, so if you would prefer this then please let me know.
The massage table can be heated, and you’ll be covered from head to toe by super soft blankets - with just the area that is being worked on uncovered. So rest assured, you’ll feel secure and snug whatever your level of undress.
What products do you use?
I have a choice of oil blends that you can choose from that day - depending on your mood! These are made with organic jojoba oil and blended with essential oils from Neal’s Yard. I change them seasonally, and when I’m feeling creative!
Jojoba oil is exceptionally nourishing, yet gentle, and ideal for all skin types.
What do I need to do during the massage?
Relax and breathe. Breathe and relax. I will guide you into a space of “letting go”, so there is nothing for you to remember to do.
Will it hurt?
Whilst it is very hard for the massage itself to cause you pain, it may bring awareness to areas of pre-existing tension in your body. Try to breathe deeply and relax into any discomfort. You will be supported to work through it slowly and steadily - you’re in safe hands.
The pressure, temperature, pace, and focus can all be adjusted at any point. You’re welcome to drift off, but please say if you’d like something to change.
How can I pay?
You can pay using cash or card at the end of your session.
What do I need to do after the massage?
Continue to rest, re-hydrate, and avoid caffeine and intense exercise if possible. You can do some gentle stretching or light yoga if you feel like it.
On occasion, muscles can release accumulated toxins into the lymphatic system after a massage, which are then processed naturally out of the body. This can sometimes make you feel a bit achy the following day, but rest assured it’s a good sign. Water and a good night of sleep will support your body to recover and detoxify.
When should I have a massage?
We have appointments available throughout the day, afternoon and evening. You’re encouraged to have your sessions whenever you’re able to carve out some time afterwards to rest and anchor in the benefits of deep relaxation.
How often should I have a massage?
The lasting benefits of massage accumulate dramatically when you have them regularly. Most of our clients visit between once a fortnight to every six weeks and factor this into their budgets once they feel the impact it has on their pain levels, mood and wellbeing. Listen to what your body needs, and take it from there.
What is your cancellation policy?
Please allow 24 hours notice if you need to cancel your appointment. Late cancellation will incur a charge equal to half the cost of your booked treatment. Thank you for understanding!
Do you only work with women?
Yes - for the moment. However, I’m open to working with men through introductions from existing clients. If you have a friend or partner who you think would benefit from what I offer - feel free to pass my details on to them.
What is your CoVID-19 policy?
You can read our CoVID-19 Guidelines & Safety Procedures here.
What is your privacy policy?
I take your right to privacy very seriously. In order to provide you with a professional service, I need to gather and retain potentially sensitive information about your health. This is done in the form of a secure digital consultation process. I only use the information you provide to inform the treatment I offer. In addition, I take basic contact details and information via my booking site that allows me to contact you and handle bookings. I will contact you using the contact preferences you give me in relation to:
• Appointment times
• Information related to your appointments
• Special offers and promotions (you may unsubscribe from this at any time)
I will NOT share your information with anyone else (other than within my own practice, or as required for legal process) without explaining why it is necessary, and getting your explicit consent.
I have put in place appropriate technical and physical procedures to safeguard and secure the information we collect from you. Your records are kept for 7 years after your last treatment, in the necessary event of ‘claims occurring’ insurance.