What is the atmosphere like during my session?
Must I be completely undressed?
Will I have time to privately change or disrobe?
Will I be covered during the session?
What parts of my body will be massaged?
What if I want my therapist to avoid an area (feet, scalp, face, etc.)?
Is there a menu of add-ons like aromatherapy or different massage oils?
What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?
Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable?
What is the atmosphere like during my session?
Your Moon Avenue session will take place in a warm, quiet room. The massage table is especially designed for your comfort with your choice of table heat setting. You may also choose your covering: a cozy down-alternative comforter or weighted blanket. Lighting will be low, and you will be offered a weighted (flax seed-filled) satin eye pillow for even deeper rest.
Must I be completely undressed?
All massage therapy in the United States requires you to be properly draped. This means "swimsuit zones" stay covered the entire time, but areas such as the back, arms and legs will be undraped to be worked on, and then covered back up when completed. It is entirely up to you what you want to wear. As massage therapists frequently say, "Undress to your level of comfort."
If you want to try massage therapy, but are uncomfortable getting undressed, Moon Avenue offers "Comfortably Clothed" options. Services such as Myofascial Release, Reflexology and The Stella Petra Flora sessions can be performed either partially or even fully clothed, depending on the service. Megan has recommendations for each of these, so feel free to ask or discuss your needs with her. *Note that all Myofascial Release techniques as well as gliding massage strokes require contact with bare skin.*
Will I have time to privately change or disrobe?
Megan will leave the room while you change or undress and get onto the table, under the covers, and take a few deep breaths to settle in. She will knock to see if you are ready, and wait for your permission to re-enter room.
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.
What parts of my body will be worked on?
Moon Avenue treatments vary so please see each service description. A full-body massage such as the "Signature Massage," includes work on your back, shoulders, neck, head, arms, hands, legs and feet. Myofascial Release Sessions follow the plan provided by your body's responses. You may feel heat or buzzing in your head after a release down in your low back, for example. There is no set map for where the releases happen and where the fascia will want us to go next. It is entirely unique to each individual.
What if I want my therapist to avoid an area (feet, scalp, face, etc.)?
During your in-office intake, Megan will ask you if you'd like to forgo of any of the included offerings. At this time she will also ask if there are any areas you'd like to focus on, as well as any areas you'd like to skip or avoid; you have the right to opt out of treatment on areas where you are uncomfortable with touch for any reason, at any time. No questions asked.
Is there a menu of add-ons like aromatherapy or different massage oils?
All Moon Avenue Massages include the following at no extra charge: Choice of 8 herb-infused, moon-charged massage oils (not used in MFR sessions). Essential oil aromatherapy. Hot towels. Hot/cold stone application. Weighted micro-satin eye pillow. Plush, cozy duvet. Heated table. You can forgo of any of these offerings during intake.
What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?
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.
Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable?
Yes. That's why each client of Moon Avenue Massage must accurately fill out a general intake form (emailed prior to your first visit). It is important that you inform Megan 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.