frequently asked questions

You should get a massage as often as your time and finances allow!  Think of massage not as a luxury, but as an essential part of your health regime, just like nutrition and exercise.  Regular massages can help prevent acute pain from becoming chronic, and allow you to develop an awareness of your movement patterns.

If you suffer from chronic pain and you haven't had a massage in a while, it is best to start with several appointments spaced close together. Once you become pain-free in between appointments, you can begin to space the appointments further apart until you reach a point in which your pain is under control.  From then on, continue with routine appointments as part of your health maintenance.

Massage can be uncomfortable at times, but should never be painful to the point that your muscles clench in response. Communication is essential, so please speak up if anything feels uncomfortable and adjustments will be made. There is no such thing as "no pain, no gain" in massage.  If it doesn't feel right, it probably isn't.

With deep tissue work, firm pressure is used at times, but is not essential to reaching deeper layers of tissue.  In fact, exceptionally firm pressure can have the opposite effect. It can cause your muscles to tense up, thereby preventing access to the deeper layers. It can also damage the outer layers of tissue, leaving you more sore the next day. 

Kim's approach to deep tissue work involves warming the outer layers of tissue first with moderate pressure, then gradually working deeper as the outer layers begin to relax and soften. She does not "power through" with firm pressure, but rather lets your body lead the way.

Kim has worked on hundreds of bodies of all shapes and sizes. When she is massaging, she focuses on areas like muscles, connective tissue, postural patterns and joint mobility. She does not see or judge any imperfections you might see with yourself. Don't worry if your body isn't in perfect shape or perfectly groomed. Kim won't take notice, and neither should you!   

Before your massage, you will have privacy to undress, climb onto the table, and get under the sheets. You may undress to the level you are most comfortable with. Most clients remove all clothing, or keep only their underwear on. You may stay partially, or even fully clothed, though some areas are easier to massage when there is less fabric to work through. Throughout the session, your body will be covered with a sheet unless it is an area being worked on. The sheet will be carefully tucked and secured around the exposed area. Please speak up if you are uncomfortable at any time.

Your massage is all about YOU.  You should spend the session doing whatever relaxes you most. For some, talking is a way to de-stress, whereas for others, a quiet space is more relaxing. You will get the most out of your massage if you are able to focus your awareness on the sensations in your body, however you do that best.  

A tip, or gratuity, is NOT expected at Body Mechanics Massage Therapy.  Services are priced without the expectation of a tip. A great way to express your satisfaction is by referring a friend or family member, or by giving a positive online review.

If you must cancel your appointment, 24 hours notice is required to avoid being charged in full for your missed appointment. There is no penalty for a last-minute cancellation due to illness. Kindly give advance notice of a cancellation whenever possible. Thank you.