Massage FAQs

What should I wear for my massage?

To allow your therapist to massage the full body, you typically wear only your underwear when on the table. You will be kept respectfully covered with a towel or sheet at all times, with only the specific area being massaged uncovered. For ladies, I recommend a G-sting or high-cut knickers. For men, I recommend briefs or short trunks pulled up a little high on the legs. This is to allow access to the glutes (buttocks), which are the biggest muscles in the body. Please note that I cannot massage areas that are covered, so if you opt to wear shorts or long swimming trunks for your massage, I won’t be able to massage the whole leg and/or buttocks.

To make it easy to undress before your massage and dress again afterwards, I recommend wearing loose-fitting or stretchy clothes. Bear in mind that you will have some residual oil on your skin after the massage, which may make it difficult to put on tight jeans or close-fitting tops. Note also that the oil might stain white clothes, so wearing dark clothes is probably best.

For your privacy, I will leave the room while you’re undressing/dressing and will provide towels or sheets for you to cover yourself before I come back in.

Do I need to shower before my massage?

Not necessarily, but I do ask that you come to your appointment clean and without strong perfume or other fragrances.

How long does the massage take?

My massages vary in length from 30-90 minutes and are priced accordingly. Whichever length you pay for is the actual time you will spend on the table – I don’t count the time it takes to undress/dress. For at-home massages (in your home), I also don’t count the time taken to set up or take down the massage table. For massages in my studio, you should add at least 10 minutes to your massage time so you’re not rushed. For at-home massages, allow at least an extra 20 minutes.

What kind of oil do you use?

I typically use grapeseed oil scented with a small amount of essential oil. If you don’t like the smell, just let me know and we can switch to an unscented oil. I also have a warming oil available for sore or tired muscles. You will be given tissues at the end of your massage that you can use to wipe off any excess oil before getting dressed.

I don’t want oil on my face/in my hair – is that ok?

Of course! I can use a light cream on your face and clean my hands before doing your head massage if you prefer.

I don’t like anyone touching my feet/head/etc. – is that ok?

No problem! It’s your massage and I want you to enjoy it. While you get the most benefit when the whole body is massaged, you can still have a great massage without including the head, feet or whatever other area you would like to exclude.

Note that I don’t typically massage the tummy. If you would like to include a tummy massage, please let me know when you arrive so I can ensure to allow time for it.

What kind of pressure do you use?

I typically use, and recommend, medium-firm pressure. This is so that you get the full benefits from your massage. If you would like the pressure to be firmer or lighter, just ask. However, note that while a light massage might feel nice, it does not have the same benefits. If you would like a very deep massage, consider getting a Hot Stone Massage.

Is massage painful?

You may feel some discomfort during your massage, depending on the area being massaged or any pre-existing pains. In particular, those who do a lot of sports or who have very tight muscles might feel pain in some areas. If the pressure is too much at any point, just let me know and I can adjust to meet your needs. It’s also not unusual to feel some soreness after your massage due to the release of lactic acid in the muscles, but that doesn’t last long.

Do you do sports massage?

I’m not specifically qualified to do sports massage or to treat injuries. However, I can give a very firm massage that will help to relieve tired muscles or to prepare muscles for sports activities. I have a warming oil available if needed.

Do you do lymphatic drainage, pre/post-natal, baby or cancer care massage?

At this time, I don’t, unfortunately, but I hope to offer all of these in the future.

Do you offer couples massage?

At the moment, I work alone, so can only massage one person at a time. However, I can offer back-to-back massages, either in my studio or in your home.

Can I chat during my massage?

Well, it’s your massage and I want you to enjoy it, so chat if you like! However, you will experience the greatest benefits from your session if you just allow yourself to become quiet and relaxed.

Do let me know if you feel any pain or discomfort or if there’s anything I can do to make you more comfortable. Some types of massage that work deeply into the muscles, such as deep tissue or hot stone massage, require you to give more feedback to ensure that the pressure or heat is not uncomfortable.

Can I talk about “happy endings” even if it’s just a joke?

Nope, not even as a joke. I have a zero-tolerance policy, so any sexual advances, innuendo or inappropriate jokes are grounds for immediate termination of your session. I am a qualified, professional massage therapist – please treat me as such.

What if I fart during my massage?

The world will end. Just kidding! Don’t worry – we all do it!

What if I need to cancel my appointment?

Please let me know as early as possible so that I can rebook your slot. If you cancel less than 2 hours before your appointment (or 4 hours for at-home massages), you will be charged for your appointment. If you have prepaid for your appointment and you cancel in time, you will not receive a refund but your payment will carry forward to your next massage.

What if I am late for my appointment?

Please arrive on time for your appointment. Your appointment time has been specially arranged for you. If you arrive late, your massage may be shortened to accommodate other appointments. I will do my best to give you the full time you’ve booked, but I can’t guarantee the full time if you arrive late. You will need to pay for the time you booked even if your massage is cut short.

I woke up feeling unwell today. Should I go ahead with my appointment?

If you are sick, a massage will probably just make you feel worse and in most cases would not be recommended. You may pass your illness on to me or other clients that day. Even if you are giving less than 2 hours’ notice, I would prefer you reschedule your appointment if you are feeling unwell. The earlier you can let me know, the better.

When should I not get a massage?

Before your first appointment, you will be asked to complete a health screening form. This form lists circumstances when you cannot get a massage and when you shouldn’t get a massage. You can find the form here. If you are unsure about anything, please just ask and I’ll be happy to advise.

What should I do after my massage?

I recommend you drink plenty of water after your massage to help flush toxins out of the body. Try to relax as much as possible and avoid strenuous activity or extreme heat (hot baths, saunas or steam rooms). Avoid alcohol if possible as it might give you a headache.

How can I pay?

At the moment, I accept only cash, Revolut or gift vouchers.

Do you do gift vouchers?

Yes, gift vouchers are available for all my services. You can purchase online (payment via Revolut) or directly from me. I can provide either physical or virtual (email) vouchers. Note that many people prefer email vouchers as they always have them with them on their phone.