Where will my massage session take place? Your session will take place in the space provided by you, the client. Soft music may be played by the client to help with relaxation, but will not be provided by the therapist.
What parts of my body will be massaged? Maxfield is prepared to work a full-body session, on either the chair or table, which could include work on a clients back, arms, gluteals, legs, abdominal, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders. The client should instruct the therapist if there are areas of the body they wish to be avoided, and may speak up about this at any time throughout the session. The therapist's' goal is the client's comfort.
Are there any medical conditions that would make massage inadvisable? Yes. That's why it's imperative that, before you begin your session, you inform the practitioner of any health problems or medications you are taking. If you are under a doctor's care, it is strongly advised that you receive a written recommendation for massage or bodywork prior to any session. Depending on the condition, approval from your doctor may be required and massage may be contraindicated regionally or absolutely.
What are the benefits of massage and bodywork? Massage can help reduce mental and physical fatigue, improve posture, release chronic muscular tension and pain, improve circulation, increase joint flexibility, decrease stress, promote faster healing of injured muscular tissue, and reduce blood pressure. Massage is also known to promote better sleep, improve concentration, reduce anxiety and create an overall sense of well-being.
What will the massage feel like?
Chair - This modality focuses on head, neck, shoulders, and back work. While it is possible to work the legs with some modification, the usually short span of time limits the therapist to either the back or front side. Clients can expect moderate to deep pressure and can request either an invigorating or calming approach. Maxfield's focus on orthopedic and deep techniques equip him with a wide array of approaches to deal with the neck, shoulder, and back pain many of us suffer from our day to day responsibilities.
Table - Maxfield's approach to table massage uses a mixture of Swedish, deep, and orthopedic approaches to specifically address the client's focus area, and allows them to undress to their comfort level. Prior to the start of a table massage, an interview is conducted to discuss the client's needs, concerns, and expectations. These massages often use a lubricant suitable for the client's needs and requests, although work can be done without it as well.
This is Maxfield's preferred modality as it allows for the greatest benefit to the client in that an issue can be addressed more holistically and thoroughly. These sessions also use more detailed paperwork that allows him to track the progress of the sessions to ensure that the client is getting the appropriate treatment. As always, clients should communicate immediately if they feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken. Massage is most effective when one's body is not resisting and when one's mind is at ease.
What should I do during the massage session? 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 at any time.
Must I be completely undressed?
Chair - Clients will remain completely dressed
Table - Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, it is entirely up to you what you want to wear. You should undress to your level of comfort. You will be properly draped during the entire session. If requesting table work in a public setting all clothes must remain on during the massage.
Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe? The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet and blanket.
Will I be covered during the session? You will be properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed.
How will I feel after the massage or bodywork session? Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days.
If there are any other questions contact Maxfield Baker directly for clarification, please allow up to 24 hours for a response.
