IMPORTANT
Gerda Laurel company rule.
Please, if you cannot come on the agreed day, at the agreed time, for an unimportant reason, you must inform me 24 hours in advance, otherwise I have the right to ask you to pay for the missed visit.
Sincerely, Gerda Laurel
Most frequently asked questions
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First Piece of Advice – SPEAK UP!
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Why is speaking up so important? This is YOUR session – and the experience all yours. And as your therapist, i want to enjoy every minute and benefit as much as possible from the time you spend with me. If you would like anything changed – the pressure, areas worked, position, temperature, music, etc… speak up! You will not hurt my feelings by asking for something, that will make you feel more comfortable.
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2. What are the benefits of massage therapy?
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I presents the top five health benefits of adding regular massage therapy to your health and wellness strategy. Massage therapy from a licensed practitioner can:
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Lower stress
The long-term effects of stress can take emotional and physical tolls. Massage therapy may relieve stress and conditions associated with it, such as tension headaches. -
Increased Immune Function
Medical research indicates that massage therapy can help boost immune system strength by increasing the activity level of the body’s natural “killer T cells,” which fight off viruses. -
Boost Mental Health and Wellness
Research suggests that symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression (all associated with mental health) may be directly affected by massage therapy. -
Pain Management and Improved Range of Motion
Pain can negatively affect a person’s quality of life and impede recovery from illness or injury. Recent findings highlight the role of massage in pain management. -
Improved Physical Fitness
Elite and recreational athletes alike can benefit from massage therapy – massage can reduce muscle tension, improve exercise performance, and prevent injuries.
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3. What should I expect during my first massage visit?
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Your massage therapist should require you to fill out a health history form. They may also ask more in-depth questions to establish which areas you would like focused on, or if there are any specific conditions needing to be addressed. It is important to list all health concerns and medication so that your therapist can adapt your session to your specific needs without causing any harm.
It is also important to specify any allergies so that your therapist may adjust the oil or cream being used during your visit.
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4. Do I Have to Get Completely Undressed for Massage Therapy?
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"No! You do not need to be completely undressed. We say "undress to your comfort level." Personally, as a therapist I prefer less clothing on my client as I can get the muscles a little more, and I can use many techniques. If you were fully clothed there would be a different glide and traction with the massage. When you are on my table, know that you will be covered with a sheet and blanket at all times except the area that I am working on. I want you to feel as comfortable as you can."
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5. Do you talk during a massage?
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Some people enjoy having a conversation during their massage but keep in mind, the treatment is all about you releasing your tensions and enjoying the experience. Regardless of your choice, be sure to speak up during the massage if there is anything you’d like adjusted (temperature, pressure, music, etc).
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6. Will the practitioner be present when I undress?
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No. The practitioner will leave the room or you will be covered (we call it a towel wall) while you undress.
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7. What parts of my body will be massaged?
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You and the practitioner will discuss the desired outcome of your session. This will determine which parts of your body require massage. A typical full body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders. You will not be touched on or near your genitals (male or female) or breasts (female).
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8. How long will the session last?
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The average full-body massage or bodywork session lasts approximately one hour. A half-hour appointment only allows time for a partial massage session, such as neck and shoulders, back or legs and feet. Many people prefer a 60- to 90-minute session. Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session. Hot tubs, steam baths and saunas can assist in the relaxation process.
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9. What should I do during the session?
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Prior to the massage, feel free to ask the practitioner any questions about the technique or the upcoming session. During the massage, make yourself comfortable. The practitioner will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm). Many people just close their eyes and completely relax, communicating if/when they need more or less pressure, another blanket, or anything else relevant to the session. If you have any questions regarding the session or about the particular technique you are receiving, feel free to ask the practitioner.
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10. What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?
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Massage and bodywork can help release chronic muscular tension and pain, improve circulation, increase joint flexibility, reduce mental and physical fatigue and stress, promote faster healing of injured muscular tissue, improve posture, and reduce blood pressure. Massage and bodywork is also known to promote better sleep, improve concentration, reduce anxiety and create an overall sense of well-being.
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11. What if I fall asleep and snore or drool?​
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It is very common for guests to fall asleep during their massage. If you snore or drool, don’t worry, me your therapist has definitely seen this before and will not judge. I love seeing you so relaxed!
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12. What if I have body acne, skin conditions, or forgot to shave?
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Rest assured, massage therapists have seen and felt it all! Please do not feel uncomfortable or embarrassed. Your massage therapist is focused on creating a relaxing and therapeutic experience for you, and you cannot relax if you are anxious about your body’s appearance. If anything, your therapist may be able to make product or technique recommendations to help alleviate any conditions that may be bothersome to you.
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13. What if I get an erection during my massage?
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Sometimes it happens. Yet many men avoid massage for fear that it will happen to them. Or they choose to receive the massage, but cannot fully relax out of fear. But there is no reason to be embarrassed. Sometimes men can get an erection during a non-sexual, therapeutic, full body massage. Touch administered to any part of the body can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which can result in a partial or full erection. A well-trained, professional massage therapist understands this and it should not be a problem for him or her. If you are still concerned, consider wearing more tight-fitting underwear that offers more support and coverage than traditional boxer shorts. NOTE: If the therapist feels that the session has become sexual for a guest, he or she may stop the session to clarify the client's intent and may decide to stop the session immediately. Under no circumstances will sexual advances be tolerated in the treatment room.​
Have more questions?
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