If it is your first massage with the Massage Geeks, please plan to arrive about 5-10 minutes early for your appointment. This will allow you time to complete some brief paperwork (unless you took advantage of the online intake form!) and to meet your therapist.

Your therapist will review your intake information and ask you some follow up questions. Are you getting a massage to relax or to get stuff done (ie, focus on your frozen shoulder issue)? Answering this question will help the therapist tailor the massage modalities to your needs.

You are welcome to undress to your level of comfort. For some people, that means leaving undies on. For others, they are more comfortable with no clothing at all. You will be covered by a sheet and/or a blanket at all times, except for the specific area being massaged. Most people reveal more at the swimming pool than on our massage tables. Generally, we ask women to remove bras and camisoles so that the therapist can best access the back for long, soothing strokes. If you are ever uncomfortable, please let your therapist know immediately. We will work with you to make the environment better.

Communication is THE most important part of any massage! Your therapist will check in with you about the pressure and type of strokes s/he is using, but you should always speak up if you like or do not like something. Sometimes muscles have been locked for so long you didn't realize they were sending pain signals until a knowledgeable touch occurs. If the sensation ever goes beyond "hurts so good" you should immediately let your therapist know. We are there to make your experience a relaxing and therapeutic one. Feel free to ask questions during the massage about the sensations you experience. Your therapist can then adjust or possibly offer solutions.

Yes. Yes, you do. Ok, real answer: it is up to you. Tipping after a massage is considered appropriate, especially if you think the therapist provided you good service. The recommended tip amount is 15-20% of the non-discounted service rate. A "thank you" is also well-appreciated (and a referral is the best compliment a massage therapist can receive!). This advice comes - with some editorializing - from Emily Post and Protocol & Etiquette Worldwide via a Real Simple article.

Your therapist will offer you some tips and stretches that you can do after your massage to keep your relaxed state going. Here are some common recommendations: +Drink water. Massage increases your circulation and lymphatic system; keeping hydrated will assist your body in flushing out the salts and waste. +Epsom salts bath. If you can, take a 30 minute hot bath with 1 cup of Epsom Salts and 1 cup of baking soda. This will help ease any residual muscle cramping or aches. +Apply an ice pack or heating pad to sore areas. You can treat the area for 20 minutes or so. +Schedule your next massage. :~D

Nope! Most people go about the day like normal after a massage, even an orthopedic or therapeutic session. Although, we do hear that quite a few people go home and take a nap! Feel free to go to the gym, grocery store, or other routine activities like normal... just a bit more of a relaxed, pain-free normal.