Q: Are you any good?
A: Yes, I get asked this from time to time. And, I understand why. Getting a bad massage is really frustrating, and then having to pay for it...sucks. I personally have lots of stories about the crappy massages I've received. I can go on and on about the techniques in my repertoire, the experience I've gained over the years, and even offer testimonials from satisfied clients--but that doesn't necessarily tell you if you're going to like what I have to offer.
This is why I offer an introductory rate for new clients. Sometimes, I offer my services for free at various events. I'm always open to ideas on how to offer my services to folks who may otherwise not be aware of my services, or to even ever get a massage at all. If you're totally unhappy with your massage, I won't charge you. You'll never know until you try it out.
Q: Why don't you accept tips?
A: It's not that I don't like money, but outside of the spa setting, tipping can get complicated. I'm not a spa, I own my little business, so the flat fee makes things a lot easier. If you're happy with your treatment, please make another appointment, or refer The Massage Mama to your family and friends. This is the best tip I can receive!
A: Yes, I get asked this from time to time. And, I understand why. Getting a bad massage is really frustrating, and then having to pay for it...sucks. I personally have lots of stories about the crappy massages I've received. I can go on and on about the techniques in my repertoire, the experience I've gained over the years, and even offer testimonials from satisfied clients--but that doesn't necessarily tell you if you're going to like what I have to offer.
This is why I offer an introductory rate for new clients. Sometimes, I offer my services for free at various events. I'm always open to ideas on how to offer my services to folks who may otherwise not be aware of my services, or to even ever get a massage at all. If you're totally unhappy with your massage, I won't charge you. You'll never know until you try it out.
Q: Why don't you accept tips?
A: It's not that I don't like money, but outside of the spa setting, tipping can get complicated. I'm not a spa, I own my little business, so the flat fee makes things a lot easier. If you're happy with your treatment, please make another appointment, or refer The Massage Mama to your family and friends. This is the best tip I can receive!
Q: Why don't you offer 60 minute sessions for in-home services?
A: I will offer 60 minute sessions for 2 or more people, but not for a single person session. For in-home massage, the travel, set-up, and breakdown often takes longer than 60 minutes, and I've found that when having gone through the effort to be there, I would often go well over the allotted 60 minutes for massage. For the minimum amount of time for an in-home session, 75 minutes has worked out well.
Q: What type of massage do you offer/ specialize in?
A: Please see "Services" page for the types of massage that I offer.
If you specifically ask for a particular service, that is what I will give you. However, my sessions are often not strictly limited to these modalities. Every person's body is unique and ever-changing, and results are what matters most, rather than the type of massage I'm doing. For example, a person may want a light, relaxing Swedish massage, but need more deep tissue in the neck and shoulders. When I do On-the-Floor massage, I use a combination of Traditional Thai and Zen Shiatsu techniques. Each session may vary based on the situation.
That said, there are many types of massage, and and I'm always into learning new styles and techniques. Modalities that I am learning or plan on taking in the future include Traditional Hawaiian Lomi-Lomi, Esalen, and more Thai Massage.
Q: How often should I get a massage?
A: As often as you need one, whenever you can! It may be once a week, every other week, or once a month. Regular massage is proven to relax and relieve tight, painful muscles, improve one's mood, and strengthen the immune system.
However, avoid getting a massage if you think you are getting sick, or if you have a particular injury that massage could aggravate. When in doubt, ask your doctor.
Q: I've never had a massage therapist come to my home before, what should I expect?
A: I need a clear space to set up my massage table or blankets and mat for on-the-floor massage. If you don't have an extra room, you can move some furniture around, which I can help with. Other than a pillow or two in case you would like to some extra support, (especially if it's a pregnancy massage) I bring everything else: linens, oils, blanket and music. You are welcome to play your own music if you like. Then, relax and receive!
Here's a suggestion: Put on your fluffy robe and receive your massage. Afterwards, take a long bath or shower with some epsom salts and aromatherapy. Light a candle or two. Brew some tea and chill out with a book or movie. Voila! Home spa day!
