If you haven’t had massage therapy before, or you’re trying out a new therapist, there are questions it can be useful to ask before you make an appointment. Here are some of the top questions to ask before you dive in, and the answers you’ll get if you ask me!

1. What oil or lotion do you use?

You’ll want to be sure you’re not being massaged with anything to which you’re allergic or sensitive. If you’re coming in still wearing your nice work clothes, you’ll also want to be sure your therapist is either using something non-staining, or else you can plan ahead and have casual clothes to change into when you go home.

I use only pure jojoba oil. It’s a premium botanical oil that mimics the chemical composition of the healthy moisturizing oil in our skin. It doesn’t clog pores or leave us feeling greasy, and while anything is possible, I’ve not yet heard of anyone being allergic to it. The only thing I’ve ever seen it stain is paper so your clothes should be safe, *and* I still recommend bringing comfortable casual clothing for afterward all the same.

2. What styles of massage and bodywork do you offer?

If you’re not especially familiar with the broad variety of styles out there, you might be looking for something that’s familiar to you, or you might be interested in trying a new approach. Keep in mind that massage therapy is both art and science, so everyone’s touch and presence is different – you’ll never have the exact same experience twice. Nevertheless, some elements are very characteristic of one general style or another. Knowing what your therapist draws on can help you get more of what you want in your sessions.

Unless there’s a specific request, like exclusively craniosacral therapy or traditional Hawaiian lomilomi techniques, I’ll generally draw on a variety of styles, including Esalen, Hawaiian lomilomi, and craniosacral.

3. Are you comfortable doing deep/subtle work?

With training and experience, most therapists can accommodate a variety of preferences and needs for more or less pressure. Some may have a strong tendency towards one end of the spectrum or the other, however, so checking in about this in the beginning is a good idea.

After nearly 1000 clock hours of classroom training and almost 20 years in practice, I’m pretty versatile. I can go deep with my touch where needed – some people who were doubtful initially that they’d get the deep pressure they were looking for at my office have been surprised! Nevertheless my tendency when I started training was more toward a lighter touch, and I’m still a smart choice for people with high sensitivity. I have multiple references from people who have finally found the sensitive, mindful touch their bodies really needed in working with me!

4. What music do you play during sessions?

We all have our likes and dislikes, and some of us have strong associations with particular types of music. Particularly if there’s some kind of music that would get in the way of your ability to enjoy your session, it’s a good idea to say something!

Unless I’m doing a craniosacral therapy session, I generally use a playlist featuring mellow music by indigenous Hawaiian and Native North American artists, and contemporary acoustic guitar pieces. Most clients have told me it sets a perfect mood for relaxing and feeling good…but if any of that doesn’t sound like a fit for you, let me know. I’ve got easy access to other music – I just need to know your preference.

…sometimes the little things make a big difference, so please feel free to ask questions about any aspect of your massage therapy experience. Asking questions before you book helps your therapist prepare to offer you the personally tailored care you deserve!