WHAT TO EXPECT

Here's What You Can Expect!

New to Massage?

If you are new to massage or even if it has been a while since you've had one, here are some things you can expect from me at River View Massage.

 

I have a large, comfortable office, located in the Salmon Falls Building on the Buckland side of the Deerfield River, with a beautiful view of The Bridge of Flowers and Shelburne Falls. I'm on the second floor, above The Salmon Falls Art Gallery, and there are both stairs and an elevator for your convenience. 

Frequently asked questions

Types of Massage

What should I expect when I arrive at your office?

Once you arrive, you will be asked to fill out an intake form, if you haven't done so already online. Please be sure to list all injuries, medical conditions, medications, surgeries, allergies and special needs you may have, so that I can best determine what you require and we can discuss your treatment options. Please arrive at least 10 minutes early for your first massage to fill out the paperwork. I schedule a little extra time before and after the massage to ensure you get the entire time you are booked.



Is your office handicap accessible?

Yes! My office has an elevator in the building and my office is accessible.



Will we listen to music during the session? Do we HAVE to listen to music?

My treatment room is private, warm and inviting, with soft, natural light. You can choose the music during your massage. Some clients prefer ambient music, some don't, so I want you to be able to relax and enjoy your session. We'll discuss your options for the massage and what you are looking to achieve.



What do I wear / not wear during my massage?

No matter if you are new to massage or have had many, you can always undress to how you are comfortable at that time. Traditionally, massage is performed unclothed, using lotion and oil to glide on the skin. If for any reason you are not comfortable with this, we can make simple accommodations to ensure you get the massage you want. I'll step out of the room to give you plenty of time to relax, undress to your level of comfort and get on the table. My table is heated, with a thick merino wool pad under the sheet, and I have plenty of bolsters and cushions for positioning Generally, and depending on your needs, you'll start under the top sheet and blanket, with your face resting in the face cradle. At all times during the massage, you will be properly and professionally draped to ensure your privacy and comfort. I'll knock before reentering, and ensure you are comfortable with temperature and the music you have selected.



During the massage, what products do you use? What will the table be like?

Before we begin, I'll place a bolster under your feet, and warm pads under your shoulders to relieve some of the tension around the shoulder blades. Once you are completely comfortable on the table and the massage begins, feel free to let me know at any point if you need to reposition or you would like to change the temperature of the table. I use a locally made hypoallergenic lotion, mixed with a small amount of light massage oil to ensure a smooth, silky feel without leaving too much oil on your skin afterwards. I'll check in with you about the pressure I am applying or if I feel any areas of tightness or tension. At any point you may ask me to adjust the pressure, spend more or less time on a specific area or avoid any sensitive or ticklish areas. Hot towels are used at a few points during the massage to further aid in relaxation and to help remove any excess lotion or oil. They are very relaxing and I will let you know before I apply them. Many people find it to be one of the best parts of the massage and it usually marks a transition from one area to the next.



Do you offer firm or more gentle massages?

Massage can be as firm or as gentle as you prefer. My main objective, if I find an area of tightness or tension, is to bring your focus to it and allow your muscles to relax. Generally, moderate pressure and your intention is sufficient to achieve this, and most people find that helpful in relieving stress and tension. Some prefer lighter pressure, some deeper, but at no point does the massage need to be painful to be effective.



What is required from me during the massage?

Nothing is required from you during the massage, other than possibly turning over at some point so I can work on the front of your legs, arms, neck and shoulders. The objective is for you to sink deeply into the table and allow yourself to relax. If at any time I need to reposition or move your arm or leg, let me lift it. You literally don't need to lift a finger.



Am I supposed to talk during the massage?

You are welcome to talk as much or as little as you would like. I only ask that you communicate at any point if you have any needs. It is your time on the table and I am happy to talk with you throughout the session or not at all. It is entirely up to you which is more relaxing and effective for you to achieve your desired results.



What should I expect following the massage?

When your massage is finished, I'll step out to let you get off the table and dress in private. Take your time. I allow a little extra time for this and it it is a good way to slowly come back to your full senses. It is also possible that you will be in a deep state of relaxation after the massage, so move slowly and take care getting off the table and getting dressed. I'll be waiting for you with water in the entrance way, and if you would like, a freshly brewed coffee or tea. We can discuss your session, any follow up instructions and suggestions, and possibly book future appointments.



Ok! I'm ready to book my massage! What option is best for me?

I offer relaxation, sports, Swedish, oncology, trigger point & deep tissue massage, and I can add hot stones to most massages for a small fee. Most sessions can be a combination of several modalities, depending on the your needs and desires. Please visit our Services page for in-depth details of each type of massage.



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