Frequently Asked Questions About Massage and Yoga-
Massage-
What Covid protocols do you practice?
I am fully vaccinated and wear a mask at all times. I wash my hands between appointments, do self temp checks in the morning and sanitize the space thoroughly between clients. My priority is the health and wellness of my clients and community.
What is a Parent Massage and can anybody get one?
I run an inclusive massage practice and have created a signature massage called The Parent Massage. This means anyone that is a parent in any definition of the word can benefit from massage at my practice. No matter how you came to the parenting journey I am here to support you and provide relief. Any caregiver at any stage of their journey is welcome to receive a personalized massage that is designed to soothe aches and pains associated with being a parent.
Is it safe to get a massage in the first trimester of pregnancy?
I am certified in prenatal massage and have worked with moms at all stages of pregnancy from early in the first trimester to well beyond the delivery. I always work in a way that supports my clients and if you have any fears we can discuss them together. Many outdated texts still spread myths about pregnancy and massage. I can help to debunk some of those myths while providing current information to support my practice and techniques.
Will I be able to lie on my belly during the massage?
Yes. I use the bodyCushion system which allows you to lie comfortably and supported while on your belly. We use a lot of wedges to prop you in the correct position and leaves clients feeling supported without feeling compressed. Most clients are very comfortable on it throughout their entire pregnancy and love being able to be on their front. I also employ side lying supported and a semi-reclined back position with lots of props. During most sessions you will be in at least 2 positions. This gives clients a chance to put their bodies in positions they haven’t been in a while and a chance for me to access the muscle tissues from different angles and with different techniques.
How often should I come in for a massage while pregnant?
I see clients once a week, every other week, once a month. I consider prenatal massage like part of the prep for the big event. The more you come in the better you will feel and, the more body aware you will be. Towards the end we often see clients weekly.
Can you help me go into labor?
We can start prepping the body for labor at 37.5 weeks. We do acupressure and massage to help move things in the right direction. This doesn’t mean that if we hit the points the baby will come but it’s another tool that can help in a long list of tools.
If I'm in labor should I still come in?
Yes, we can help move things that much more along, relax you and your muscles before your baby arrives.
What forms of payment do you take and can I leave a gratuity for my therapist?
I accept Venmo, Cash App, Paypal and cash. A gratuity is a wonderful way to show your therapist you enjoyed the treatment and so appreciated.
Do you sell packages and gift certificates?
Yes, we sell packages of 3, 5 and 10 one hour sessions. Please inquire about pricing. Gift certificates are also available and make a great gift. We will need to know who it's for, who we should say it's from and, if you would like to buy a package, dollar value or 60 or 90 minute session.
Yoga and Movement Session Questions-
Can I still do Prenatal Yoga if I have never practiced Yoga before?
You can start doing prenatal yoga even if you’ve never done yoga before. The yoga that I will guide you through will be designed to meet your needs. We will build strength to help you on your journey, stretch what feels stuck and move in ways that helps you cultivate more awareness. You can start prenatal yoga as soon as you find out you’re pregnant and continue practicing until that baby comes out.
What are some of the benefits of prenatal yoga? How far along can I continue to practice?
Prenatal yoga like prenatal massage can help prepare your body for birth and help alleviate common pregnancy aches and pains. Yoga can also help your mental and emotional well-being which can have a great impact on your pregnancy journey and eventual birthing process.
The pregnant body is constantly changing, due to the weight of the baby, the hormones of pregnancy, and all of the other physiological changes your body makes to support baby. For example, did you know your blood volume during pregnancy can increase by over 50%. Prenatal yoga helps to reduce or even eliminate a lot of the aches and pains that come with pregnancy, like:
Stiff feeling hips
Low-back pain
Upper/mid-back pain
Neck and shoulder discomfort or headaches
SI issues
Swelling in the hands and feet
The breathing and meditation skills you practice during yoga can be helpful when you’re in labor both to manage the pain of birth and entire birth process.
How does postnatal yoga differ from prenatal yoga?
Beyond just making yoga more accessible for your changing body, prenatal yoga will help you optimize your well-being during pregnancy and help you prepare for birth.
Do you offer sessions in-person and virtually?
I offer both virtual and in-person yoga classes.