Fireside massage in the heart of San Francisco.
Getting a massage is one of the best things a human being can do. Not only is it one of the best treatments for stress, anxiety, and pain it also feels amazing and gives us insights into where we are holding tension. When you know what to expect and how to prepare for a massage you will get the full benefit of your session.
It is best to drink a lot of water before the massage especially if it’s been over a month since your last session. Ultimately, stressed muscles lead to inflammation and toxin build-up that can block nutrients and oxygen from getting to where they need to go thus contributing to pain and stress. A massage starts to break up and release those built-up toxins. Massage gets your blood and oxygen circulating as they should but a massage is dehydrating in nature. Staying hydrated before and after a massage is recommended because the water helps flush those released toxins out. It is recommended to use the restroom before the session. One is across the hall from the office and the other is 2 doors down.
It is best to wear loose comfortable clothes when you come in for your session. You will be asked to undress to your comfort level for your massage. Wearing loose clothing will make the undressing process easier and more comfortable for you. Feel free to hang your clothes on the hook on the door or on the chair. After the massage, you may feel tender or just extremely relaxed and you will appreciate not having to put on restrictive clothing.
It is important to completely relaxed when receiving a massage (think Shavasana (corpse) pose in yoga). The relaxation of your body and mind is key to getting the most out of your session. Focus on taking deep slow breaths during the massage. If you find you are holding your breath or tensing up the pressure is too much. I can usually tell if the pressure is too much but you can always say something or tap the table.
Please let me know before the session if you have any focus areas, contraindications, sensitive areas, allergies, or places to avoid (head, scrapped knee, etc). Also, let us know if you would like deeper pressure and if you would like a more sporty or more relaxing massage. The session is 100% about you. Feel free to talk as little or as much as you would like. Ideally, you will take deep breaths and be in tune with the session throughout and it is your journey. Ultimately my job is to help you feel better. I am here to hold space for you.
Now that you know how to prepare for a massage you might be wondering what you can expect from your massage.
I will leave the room to give you the privacy you need to remove your clothing and jewelry and get on the table face down under the sheet. You can leave your hair down. It’s most conducive to the massage to fully undress, but most importantly you are comfortable. About 60% of clients fully undress and 40% leave on underwear. You will be draped by a sheet throughout your session.
It is common for clients to fall asleep and even snore. Great! Snooze away.
I will leave the room giving you time to get dressed. When you are ready please crack the door and I will come back in. You will be feeling a natural high thanks to all of the endorphins that have been released. You will be feeling relaxed and energized at the same time. Awesome! Now is the time to book another session and leave a tip if you choose. Oftentimes I have package specials to encourage you to come in more regularly at a great rate. It is best to take it easy the rest of the day especially if you don’t receive regular massages. Drinking water is really important too. You just stirred your whole system up so be prepared. The more often you come in the better you feel, the faster your body responds, and the quicker you feel relief. Thank you for coming in!