I’ve never had a massage before. What can I expect?

I’m so glad you’re considering massage therapy! You are opening yourself up to a world of blissful relaxation, natural pain relief, and indulgent self-care. At Active Tranquility, you’ll be greeted in our comfortable front lobby and led to the treatment room. You’ll be asked to fill out a few forms (health history and informed consent) and then we will discuss your specific needs and preferences. Once we have decided which methods are the best fit for you, I will step out to allow you to get onto the massage table. You may get undressed to your comfort level and position yourself beneath the sheets and blanket. I will knock before I come back in, and then I will adjust the table warmer, bolster pillows, and face cradle to your comfort. Throughout the massage, I will check in a few times to make sure the pressure is comfortable. You are welcome and encouraged to speak up any time you’d like me to adjust something (pressure, music volume, lighting, table warmer temperature, etc). I will only undrape the part of your body that I am actively working on. I promise to stick to the session plan we created.

Am I a candidate for massage therapy?

I believe everyone deserves to experience the benefits of massage therapy! It’s always best to check with your physician if you are unsure. If you have a contagious illness, rash, or fever, we will need to reschedule your appointment. Massage cannot be performed on open wounds. If you are seeking massage after sustaining a serious injury or undergoing surgery, please obtain clearance from your physician before seeking massage therapy. 

What does ‘therapeutic relaxation’ mean?

Often called ‘Swedish Massage,’ this modality focuses on making the client feel soothed, relaxed, and de-stressed. This type of massage is beloved by those who carry daily stress, who navigate difficult jobs, and who want to supplement their self-care routines. Therapeutic Relaxation Massage features long, slow, gliding passes with a targeted focus on areas of the client’s choosing. 

What is ‘clinical neuromuscular therapy’?

This is a highly targeted modality focused on relieving pain, soothing injuries, and increasing range of motion. Think of it as going through the affected muscles with a fine-tooth comb. I’ll incorporate myofascial release, stretching, and trigger point therapy into the session, along with hot or cold compresses if needed. Clinical NMT is an interactive massage that requires the client’s focus and input throughout the session for the best results. It is preferred by athletes, those experiencing chronic pain, those who have undergone recent surgeries, and those recovering from injuries.

Why do I have to fill out a health history form?

North Carolina requires LMBTs to document and store client health history. This information will also help me tailor your massage to your specific needs. Your information will be stored securely under HIPAA compliance.

Can you accommodate my body type?

I am equipped with various sizes of bolsters and pillows to ensure maximum comfort and support. My massage table can support 480lbs and my massage chair can support 530lbs.

What conditions can massage help?

If you have an acute or chronic health condition, it’s best to consult with your physician about whether massage is a good fit for your needs. Massage has been documented to help soothe anxiety, depression, insomnia, chronic fatigue, migraines, stress headaches, golfer’s and tennis elbow, carpal tunnel, fibromyalgia, muscle strains, overuse injuries, TMJ disorder, postural distortions, sciatica, frozen shoulder, arthritis, chronic pain, and general tension and tightness. This is not a guarantee to cure, but rather a list of examples that may benefit from massage as treatment or part of a greater treatment plan. 

Does massage hurt?

No! ‘No pain, no gain’ is a myth in the massage world. If I am performing a trigger point release, I will coach you to mild discomfort with your consent for a short period of time. That’s the only ‘pain’ involved. I firmly believe that even a clinical massage should be an enjoyable, relaxing, luxurious experience. 

How often should I receive massage therapy?

Clinical neuromuscular therapy is best performed once a week for six weeks before evaluating results, but this is not a hard and fast rule. Some people prefer to come every other week, monthly, or four times a year. We will design your treatment plan based on what works for you. Package rates are available and do not expire. 

If we have had six weekly sessions without making progress, I will refer you to a local physical therapist or physician. 

What if I don’t want to get undressed?

You don’t have to! Every client will be instructed to get undressed to their comfort level. You get to decide what that looks like for you. 

Does booking a 60 minute massage mean I get a 60 minute massage, or am I charged for the intake process?

60 minutes means 60 minutes on the massage table. You will not be charged for our consultation time. I leave enough room between clients to avoid rushing. 

What if the pressure is too deep/light but I am nervous to speak up?

I will check in with you about pressure a few times, but please don’t hesitate to speak up! I promise I will not be offended or annoyed. This is your massage and I want it to be perfect for you. 

I don’t know what type of massage to book! Help?

The good news is that all you have to decide on is A) how long you want your session to be and B) any optional add-ons, like exfoliating scrubs. As far as modalities and techniques, we will decide together during your intake process what will be best for your specific needs. Maybe you want to bliss out on the table for 60 minutes, maybe you want to try some myofascial release mixed with therapeutic relaxation, maybe you want a whole body scrub and a trigger point release in your lower back. All of these combinations and more are possible!

What kind of training do you have? Are you licensed to do this?

By North Carolina law, all licensed massage and bodywork therapists are required to undergo massage therapy school, complete clinical hours, and pass the MBLEx exam. I have demonstrated written and practical competency in anatomy, pathology, physiology, kinesiology, ethics, and psychology. On top of my general massage education, I am also certified in Clinical Neuromuscular Therapy by the Western North Carolina School of Massage. Additionally, I have experience in personal training and a bachelor’s degree from Wingate University. 

Do you accept insurance?

I accept FSA/HSA cards if your doctor has deemed massage therapy medically necessary for your condition or symptoms. I am also happy to provide you with a receipt and documentation to submit to your insurance company.

Do you offer couples massage?

My office is under the same roof as another excellent licensed massage therapist and our rooms are right next door. While I am not equipped to offer traditional couples’ massage, we do offer simultaneous massage depending on availability. Please call or text 704-677-3226 for more information.

Do you offer mobile massage/house calls?

I do not offer house calls. I do offer mobile chair massage for events, markets, staff appreciation events, etc. Please email me at activetranquilitymassage@gmail.com for more information!

My stomach growls and my sinuses run when I receive massage therapy. Why?

During a massage, your body goes into parasympathetic mode, also known as ‘rest and digest.’ Your body feels safe and relaxed, so your digestive system is comfortably moving. It’s totally normal and expected; no need to be self-conscious! Your sinuses may run due to gravity after spending some time in the face cradle. This is also completely normal and nothing to worry about. 

Does my therapist want me to chat during the massage or should I just be quiet?

I let you set the tone. If you want to chat, I’m happy to respond. If you want peace and quiet, I’ll give you your space to relax. I will go with whatever flow you set.

Do you ever offer discounts?

Yes! I offer year-round package deals that do not expire. I also offer monthly specials. Teacher, military, senior, and first responder discounts are also available. Simply bring your badge or ID. 

Am I expected to tip?

Tips are appreciated but never expected. You will get the same excellent service whether you choose to tip or not.