​

 

Whether you are new to bodywork or you’ve been receiving massage for decades there are often questions about how to choose the right therapy and therapist for your particular interests. After almost a decade I can help answer some of the most asked questions and help guide you to your ideal session!

 

1. What are the benefits of massage therapy?

When you hear the list of benefits they can almost seem to good to be true! I am here to tall you they aren’t! But many of these are only achieved with regularity. 

They include: 

                      Pain reduction

                      Reduced muscle tension

                      Improved Circulation

                      Injury reduction

                      Improved sleep

                      Lower blood pressure

                      Increased body awareness

                      Posture support

                      Stress reduction

                      And many more

2. How often should I get a massage?

This is dependent on why you’re getting a massage, how long it’s been since your last massage, and things like age, lifestyle, career, and hobbies. For stress and chronic pain weekly or bi-weekly massage is indicated. Many times this can help get you to a maintenance level of massage which is typically monthly.

3, How long should my massage be?​

This is likely specific to your massage facility. At Awaken Massages and Skin Care we recommend 30 min for one small area and only if you’re coming weekly or bi-weekly. 60 minutes for one larger area (like upper back or lower back), 90 minutes for two areas, and 120 minutes for multiple areas. We don’t often do a full body massage in 60 minutes. This amount of time barely allows us to warm the tissue before needing to move on.

4. What kind of massage should I get?

Awaken has highly trained therapists who provide various modalities. Our blog details many of our offerings, but I am always happy to give you a call to help you decide what’s best. We also pride ourselves on a truly custom experience so talking about your goals and hopes with your therapist before your session is a great way to plan something that fits your unique needs.

5. What should I wear for my massage?

When I go for a massage I always bring or wear comfortable clothes to put on afterward when my schedule allows. During the massage we suggest you undress to your level of comfort. That can mean leaving undergarments on or taking them off. Either way you will always receive proper draping and will never be exposed.

6. What should I do for best results before or after my massage?

Eat a small meal about an hour before your session and hydrate! Drink more water than you normally do. Afterwards follow your therapists homecare which will include hydrating, icing or heating areas, stretches, and relaxing for the rest of the day. Work out before coming to see us!

7. When SHOULDN’T I get a massage?

Those with blood clots, DVT, infections, recent surgery, or anyone with a cold or sickness should not get a massage. Some condtions can receive massage with doctor’s approval as well as comfort of the massage therapist to provide modifications.

8. What is your cancellation policy?

We charge a full fee of service cancellations that are less than 24 hours or no show appointments. We charge half of the service fee for less than 48 hour cancellations. We undertsand things happen, and those things are sometimes unexpected,  but our business and livlihoods depend on our schedules being booked. When we hold your spot and you cancel just before your appointment it is very hard to fill. We do try, and if we are able to you won't be charged.

9. Do you accept insurance? 

Unfortunately, massage is not covered by insurance in Illinois. Some insurance WILL cover a portion, and we are happy to provide whatever documentation is needed. Most HSA or FSA accounts will also pay for massage.

 

Let me know if you have any questions that aren’t covered here! You can text 630-484-3821 or email awakenmassages@gmail.com       

​

​