What do I do before/after a massage?

Before and during your massage, feel free to communicate your needs. If you’re having a specific problem you want more attention given to or you just want to relax, please say so. If you want to talk, talk! If you want a quiet experience, lean into the quiet sounds of your breath and soft tunes. I will always follow your needs. The massage and pressure can be adjusted to fit your needs. After your session, make sure you have another on you calendar! Your future self will thank you.

Also, drink loads of water! Hydrating is helpful to reduce stress and inflammation of muscle tissue. Massage aids in circulating blood and oxygen to help break up and release built-up toxins - which is beneficial, but dehydrating by nature. Therefore, it’s important to hydrate after a massage! Taking a warm epsom salt bath after a massage prolongs the benefits.

Do I have to be naked?

Not at all! You have the option to undress to your comfort level. However, if you want low back and hip relief, I do recommend undressing completely to address those areas effectively. All bodywork is respectful and you will be draped in linens without exposing private areas. Thai Yoga Bodywork is a great option for those who prefer to be fully clothed during a massage.

What are The benefits of Bodywork? Isn’t massage just a luxury?

Those who receive bodywork regularly will tell you that it has become an integral part of their healthcare routine. While it is an ancient health modality, in the present day more and more physicians and physical therapists are referring patients for massage. Pyschologists are referring clients to massage therapy for mental stress relief and somatic therapy.

Both yoga and massage help increase and maintain functional mobility as we age. Bodywork is a preventative measure against injury and helps one recover faster from injury or surgery. Additionally and just as importantly, it reduces stress on our nervous and endocrine systems, improving overall health and body function. It’s not a secret that many diseases are stress related. Massage has been found to reduce the stress hormone cortisol by 30% and increase dopamine and serotonin levels by 30%. Existing evidence indicates that massage is beneficial for a range of health conditions and is becoming increasingly welcomed and integrated in the medical field.

Why are massages so Damn expensive?

At Exhale Bodywork, I do my best to keep my overhead costs as low as possible to provide offerings at a cost relatively moderate compared to the Cville market rates and provide effective, consistent bodywork (and yoga) without burning out.

Many assume massage therapists make so much “per hour” due to the cost of a single treatment. However, like other therapies, we have a lot of hidden costs. The cost of education and required CE hours for yoga & massage therapists are comparative to receiving a Master’s Degree. Commercial rent, licensing fees, quarterly taxes, cost of supplies, insurance, loads of laundry, time, and energy take up about 50% of income and those are just business expenses! Hence why our cancellation policies are often strict. Our loss of income directly affects our livelihood. That being said, what is beautiful about being a supporter of any small business is that you directly support our livelihoods and keep your dollar serving the local economy! Thank you.

What if i don’t know what kind of bodywork I need?

We are all healing on some level and each of our bodies hold and share their own stories. I have over 10 years of experience in postural assessment, yoga instruction, and working with different bodies. My focus is always on individualized care. This is why I maintain a flat rate for all styles of bodywork. When you first schedule you will fill out an intake form which helps me gain a better understanding of your needs. Before each treatment, we will have a brief consultation so that you receive bodywork that is effective and respectful of your needs every session. If I feel I cannot serve you, I will always refer you out to someone who can!

Will I be sore afterwards?

Depending on what style of bodywork and/or yoga practice you receive, it is natural to experience some soreness! Similar to working out, massage carries blood and nutrients to your muscles while eliminating toxins. If you’re receiving massage for the first time or it’s been a while, expect to experience some muscle soreness. If you have more frequent massages, you will experience less soreness due to muscle memory. This is why hydration and rest after a massage is super important!