That depends on your goal.  If your goal is just to relax, relieve general muscle tension and soreness, 60 minutes is a good amount of time to achieve that. A 60 minute massage is also good for just focusing on specific problem areas. If you want a full-body massage but have some areas that need a little extra attention, a 60 minute session may leave you feeling unfulfilled. A 90 minute session allows for a full-body massage and some focused work. While it is possible to have a full-body massage in 60 minutes, it does not allow for a lot of time to spend on specific areas. 120 minutes is only for a full-body massage mixed with focused, treatment-based work on problem areas.

How often should I get a massage?

As often as you like! If we are working on rehab issues, then I would suggest waiting a day or two to see how your body responds. Other than that, get a massage when you feel your body needs it. There is no special formula for how often you should receive a massage. It’s all about you and what’s best for your body.

Can you feel how tight my shoulder/neck/back/any muscle is?!

Tightness is a feeling, not necessarily a physical condition. What you feel doesn’t equate to what I feel. These are two different things. It is thought that the feeling of tightness is similar to the feeling of pain- an alarm that is telling you to move or change position. I can feel tone of tissues, but again, what I feel doesn’t equate to what you feel. Many times, I have felt an increased tissue tension and the client denies feeling pain or tightness.

Do I need to undress for the massage?

That is up to you. The most important thing is your comfort level, and this should be discussed during the intake process. A typical massage is performed directly on the skin, but a massage is still possible over clothing. If you are comfortable removing clothing, I suggest removing everything you are comfortable removing. Some people take everything off, some people take off everything but their underwear. Both are acceptable. By Oregon law, the gluteal cleft, genitals, and breast tissue will never be exposed. My practice is to only uncover the area that I am working on. Any clothing you leave on acts as a boundary and I will not cross that boundary. Please see my “What to Expect During a Massage” page for more information.

Do you take medical insurance or PIP?

I am a participating provider for Blue Cross and Providence, Please see my “Medical Insurance and Massage” page for more info on how to bill your insurance for massage. I only take PIP cases that are a direct referral from a doctor or other healthcare provider.

Your music is cool and all, but can I play my own?

Yes! I use Apple Music and can play anything your heart desires.

Do you expect me to talk to you during a massage?

Goodness no! The time during a massage is all about you. You can chat if you like. Or you can zone out or sleep if that’s your jam. I work better when I’m not trying to engage in conversation. It’s easier for me to pay attention to what’s happening with you and your body if I’m not talking. I will, however, talk to you if it is related to treatment and to check in with you.

Should I drink a lot of water after a massage?

Only if you are thirsty. It is a myth that massage pushes toxins out of tissues and that water is needed to expel those toxins out of your body. It is my mission in life to stop the spread of this nonsense.

How the heck do you pronounce your last name?

Sounds like: a bear. I swear I’m not pulling your leg. It’s French. Try it out. Bonus points if you can say it with a Cajun accent.

My last massage made me sore. Is that normal?

Maybe, but mainly, no. In general, massage should not make you sore, especially if it is intended for relaxation. It is possible, however, to be somewhat sore after a massage that was focused on an injury or rehabilitation. It is never my intention or goal for you to feel sore. If you are in pain or uncomfortable because of a musculoskeletal disorder or injury, I work conservatively so that I don’t cause you more discomfort. I do rely on your feedback during the massage to help guide my depth and intensity. But sometimes, people still feel some soreness the next day. If you are sore, please tell your therapist.

Why is your intake form so long and why do I need to give you my medical history?

Because I want to keep you safe. Massage is more than just spreading lotion over the body. Pathologies and medications may be affected by pressure and the neurological changes that happen during a massage. If you had a previous injury, I need to know so that I don’t aggravate that old injury. Certain injuries, such as damage to ligaments, are susceptible to future injuries. Knowing if the pain you are feeling is sharp, dull, or achy tells me a lot about what tissue may be affected and how I should approach treatment.

Do you sell gift certificates?

Yes, I do! Just call, text, or email and we can set up delivery and payment.

Do you treat children/minors?

I treat individuals who are 15 years of age and older.