Frequently Asked Questions
What to expect on my first visit?
When you arrive I will go through a medical form to gather your history, this takes 5-10mins. It can help me to create an appropriate treatment plan based on both your health and where your head is.
I always aim for the client to get as close to a full hour of treatment, so be prepared to leave an extra 5-10mins. If you don't have any extra time please mention at the beginning of your treatment.
After this I will give you some time alone to undress and get on the couch, underneath towels. I will usually place a bolster under your knee's or ankles and check that everything is comfortable for you.
If I need to move you (your arm for example) during the treatment, try to relax and allow me to move you freely. If you are uncormtable however, feel free to move or adjust yourself accordingly anytime during the treatment.
At the end of your treatment I will give you some time to take a moment to gently wake, get dressed and stretch if you wish, before returning to conclude on your treatment and next steps.
Do I need to fully undress?
This depends on your chosen treatment, but in general only do what you are comfortable with.
For most massage treatments it is more efficient if you remove all clothing, except pants. This allows me to work more freely within your treatment.
I always provide privacy when you are changing by leaving the room and dignity is kept by covering you with towels.
However, if you would preferred to stay dressed I would recommend a treatment such as Indian Head Massage, Reflexology or a simple but super relaxing scalp and face massage.
Will the massage hurt?
I always aim for treatments to be enjoyable and not painful. I am usually pretty good at determining whether too much pressure is being applied, however at any point if you feel uncomfortable or in pain, you must tell me.
Remember this is YOUR treatment and I will not be offended if do not like my pressure or technique.
When it comes to Sports Massage, at times the treatment may be painful due to an injury. This should still be within your limits, not reaching over a 6 out of 10 pain scale. You should notice the difference between general pain and a muscle being released. Communication is key here so that we can both work together to get the results you want.
How often should I have a massage?
This will vary from person to person, depending on the reason you sought massage and the outcome you expect to achieve.
Everyone can benefit from a weekly massage or Reflexology session, helping to relax your muscles and joints, whilst reducing overall stress in the body.
If you have an injury or a very demanding job/training programme than weekly treatments to start with are your best option. Once progress has started to take off, treatments can be spread out between 3-6 weeks to keep you in check.
I find most people who seek bodywork therapy for depression or stress most benefit from 2-4 weekly treatments. This can help to bring some more balance to your life, whilst giving you time to completely stop and let go of the stress your body and mind is carrying around.
Can I talk during my session?
This is completely up to you! If you feel more comfortable having a chat during your treatment then I am happy to join in. It really depends on your goal - talking can sometimes stop you from fully experiencing your treatment, when really you want to be switching off and letting go.
In sports massage I can sometimes ask you questions about how the pain or range of movement feels for you, to get a better idea of what I'm working with. I therefore encourage people to let me know if something feels unusually tight, painful or restricted.
You must in any treatment you receive communicate with me if the pressure is not right (more or less pressure), the music isn't to your liking or you're too hot or cold.
How will I feel after my treatment?
Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience a significant decrease or freedom from long-term aches and pains. Many feel a little slowed down for a short period and then notice an increase of energy, heightened awareness and increased productivity which can last for days.
If you received a deep massage, you may be slightly sore the next day - much like a good workout at the gym. Sometimes a hot shower, or a soak in the tub can ease this soreness.
After your session you should increase your water intake a bit. Just a glass or two more than normal is usually fine. This helps keep your body's tissues hydrated and healthy.
Is massage ok for me?
This all depends on your health - don't worry you don't need to be super healthy to have a massage!
Some conditions may mean I am unable to treat you, such as being in your 1st trimester of pregnancy. There is no evidence to show massage would cause harm, however as there is a lot of change and uncertainty during this time, it is always best to avoid.
If you are experiencing the flu or a high temperature, I would highly recommend waiting/rebooking your treatment for when you are feeling better.
High or low blood pressure - now this doesn't cancel you out. However, it is good to know as it can help me adapt the treatment and choice of oils used.
Epilepsy - if you haven't had an episode for a year than I am happy to go ahead. If you have occasional seizures then I will need a doctor's note to confirm this type of treatment is safe for you, preferably having someone with you or nearby in case of emergency. If you get them frequently, then massage is not advised.
It's often suggested massage therapy is unsafe for anyone with Cancer as it could spread the tumor. This is untrue and outdated information. Massage therapy can be very beneficial for people living with Cancer and certainly shouldn't be avoided unless on the advise of your medical practitioner.
I have attended a workshop with T-Pots helping me to gain a better understanding of what to expect and offer for people with cancer.
If you have a medical condition but are unsure if massage is suitable for you, then please call me on 07528184751 or email me at holistique@hotmail.co.uk
What should I wear for my treatment?
To the treatment wear something you don't mind potentially getting oil on.
Whilst on the couch you are usually down to your pants, anything will do as long as you are comfortable.
If you have booked a sports massage, then I may need to do a lot of resisted stretches with you. If I'm working with your legs/hips then you may feel more comfortable wearing shorts, but this is not necessary. Alternatively I will use towel tecniques to maintain your modesty.
Still have questions?
If you have any other questions, please go to my Contact section and ask away!
What type of payment do you prefer?
Cornish Therapy Centre
I now accept card, cash and bank transfers!
I offer
discounts of block bookings, so if this works best for you, then the bank transfer/card payment is the preferred method.
Cathedral Chiropractic Truro
All payments and bookings are made direct through the chriporactors, they accept both cash and card. You can contact them on 01872 262988 or book and pay directly through this link:
Click Here
What if I can no longer make an appointment?
Life gets in the way sometimes, I understand that... but please give me 48 hours notice!
If you cancel within 24 hours I will have to charge you, as it is very difficult to fill your place at short notice. You will be charged 100% of the cost.
If you fail to turn up to your treatment without informing me, I will have to charge you the full price of the treatment. If you do not pay, then unfortunatey I will not continue to work with you.
Under my discretion I may decide you do not have to pay a cancellation fee.
Give me a call or a text and we'll work it out - 07528184751
What are you doing differently since Covid 19 Pandemic?
The world around us looks a little different right now, but I'm grateful that I'm still able to offer everyone somewhere to fully relax, whilst helping to mend your muscular tension.
I have put in my own measurements to ensure you are as safe as possible, whilst not reducing the effectiveness of the treatment. I will be wearing a visor, without a medical mask as advised by the government to help keep stock available for the professions that heavily rely on it.
I will be uping my cleaning protocols to make sure every surface you have come into contact with is thoroughly cleaned before the next client arrives as well as introducing a Dyson Fan fitted with a hepa filter, helping to keep the air clean throughout your treatment.
Currently massage appointments will be reduced to no more than 50 minutes, however will still be charged at normal price. This on guidance that hands on therapy should be reduced to a shorter time and does not include the time it takes for you to get dressed and pay for your treatment. I will not be providing face massage until advised otherwise.
Currently I will not be working with anyone over the age of 70, or anyone who has been labelled in the high and moderate risk category. If you urgently need care and a chiropractor or osteopath is not suitable I will re-evaluate this rule, but this will only be for sports massage and if you do not have multiple health conditions. Please click this link to find out if you are at risk.
If you would like to book an appointment I please ask you to adhere to the following rules:
-- If you have any symptoms of a cold, flu or any virus, or have been in contact with anyone with these symptoms, no matter how mild in the last 7 days please do not book an appointment. If you already have an appointment, please let me know as soon as possible and we will re-schedule. There will be not be a cancellation fee for this reason, unless you do not cancel prior to your appointment. **No later than the morning of your appointment**
-- Please shower before your treatment and arrive in clean clothing. I will provide a box for you to put your belongings into that can be thoroughly sanitised between each client.
Do not arrive to your appointment early, please wait in your vehicle or outside away from the front door until your allocated time. I will ask you to leave the building if you arrive early.
-- Please arrive in your own mask (I will have spares if you forget), you may take this off once lying face down on the couch if you prefer, unless you have hay fever. Once lying face up, you must keep your mask on.
-- Hand sanitiser will be available for you to use on arrival. Please do this before anything else.
-- I will not be providing drinks, so I therefore ask you to bring a bottle of water along with you.
-- Do not arrive with anyone else. You must come alone to your treatment, unless under the age of 16.
Do you offer gift vouchers?
Yes!
You can purchase gift vouchers for use at the Cornish Therapy Centre in Redruth via this
link. You can also arrange to pick these up in person if you would prefer to collect or pay by cash. This will be limited to short periods of time when I am available.
If you would prefer a voucher for Cathedral Chiropractic, Truro, then please head directly to the clinic to purchase at collect.
