Including: What Is Massage Therapy?

What are the Benefits of Massage Therapy?

Top 10 Embarrassing Massage Questions Answered

Which Massage Style is Right for ME?

What to Expect During a Massage @ SNIP

Other Concerns

WHAT IS MASSAGE THERAPY? Massage is a natural way to improve both your vitality and state of mind. For over 3,000 years, cultures from all parts of the globe have used massage as part of their healthcare and rehabilitation regime to relieve the stress and tension of everyday living. Ttherapeutic massage involves the manipulation of the soft tissue structure of the body to prevent and alleviate pain discomfort, muscle spasm, and stress, while improving overall health and wellness. Whether seeking relief for a medical condition, searching for a method to help deal with the stresses of daily life or simply wanting to maintain good health, Massage Therapy might be the solution for you.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF MASSAGE THERAPY? Physical: Massage therapy is designed to stretch and loosen muscles, improve blood flow and the movement of lymph throughout the body, facilitate the removal of metabolic wastes resulting from exercise or inactivity, and increase the flow of oxygen and nutrients to cells and tissue. In addition, massage stimulates the release of endorphins, the bodies' natural painkiller. Mental: Massage therapy provides a relaxed state of alertness, reduces mental stress and enhances capacity for calm thinking and creativity. Emotional: Massage therapy satisfies the need for caring and nurturing touch, creates a feeling of well being and reduces anxiety levels.

10 Embarrassing Massage Questions Answered Some people are too embarrassed to bring up certain subjects. Here are some commonly asked questions regarding massage services and our answers.

1) Am I supposed to tip my massage therapist? A 15% to 20% gratuity is standard if you were pleased with your services at many places. Others suggest you would never tip your chiropractor, dentist, CPA, or any other licensed professional. We leave the choice up to you and are fine with your decision. You can certainly call ahead to ask if tipping is customary if you don't want to ask face to face. We are always grateful when you show your appreciation by referring friends, family and co-workers to your massage therapist.

2) Am I supposed to take off my underwear when I get a massage? Many people prefer to keep their underwear on during a massage, while others prefer to be completely nude. It's completely up to you. If your problem areas are your lower back, hips, buttocks, or groin, tight-fitting underwear can sometimes get in the way of massage work. At SNIP, if you do remove your underwear, our licensed massage therapists will ensure that you are always properly covered by a sheet or towel. Only the area being massaged will be uncovered.

3) What if I realize I've drooled during the massage? Many people fall into a peaceful slumber during the massage but when they wake up, they notice a pool of drool on the pillow or massage table. This is very common. It often happens when people are being massaged while lying face down on the massage table. Don't be afraid to ask the massage therapist for a tissue. Trust us, you weren’t the first and you certainly won’t be the last.

4) Will the massage therapist be there when I undress? At SNIP, the massage therapist will leave the room so that you can remove your clothing and lie on the massage table (usually face down) under the top sheet. Don't rush or worry that the massage therapist will walk in on you -- the massage therapist always knocks and asks if you are ready before entering the massage room.

5) Should I talk to the massage therapist during the massage? Although some people prefer to talk throughout the massage, don't feel like you have to make conversation with the massage therapist. After all, you're having a treatment, you're not at a cocktail party! Feel free to close your eyes and relax, which is what most people do. Deep tissue massage and sports massage are just some of the types of massage that require more feedback. The massage therapist often works on deeper layers of muscle and will want to ensure that the pressure is not uncomfortable. Be sure to speak up if: • you have any questions related to the massage • you experience pain • the room is too hot or too cold • there's anything you forgot to mention during the consultation

6) What if I get an erection during the massage? Some men don't get massage therapy because they worry that they'll get an erection. Or they get the massage, but are unable to relax during the massage because of this fear. But there is no reason to be embarrassed. It's perfectly normal for men to get an erection during a non-sexual, therapeutic massage. Gentle touch administered to any area of the body can activate the parasympathetic nervous system and cause a partial or full erection. Your massage therapist (male or female) understands this and will generally ignore it. If you are still worried, you may wish to wear a men's bikini bathing suit during the massage, which provides more support than boxers.

7) How do I know if it's a legitimate massage clinic? Although you might think massage parlors that offer sensual or erotic massage may look obviously seedy, it can be sometimes be difficult to spot these places. If you're trying a new clinic or spa, it's a good idea to call first and ask these questions: • Do you offer therapeutic massage? (Yes, we do.) • Is the massage therapist certified or licensed? (Yes, they are.) • Do you require a health questionnaire of your clients? (Yes, we do.) A licensed massage therapist will never come into contact with your genitals or nipples during the massage.

8) The pressure isn't deep enough, but I don't want to insult the massage therapist's technique. What should I do? Communicate openly with the massage therapist. Keep in mind however that it's a myth that massage therapy has to hurt to be effective. Some of the most effective types of massage therapy are gentle and do not involve deep pressure or pain. In fact, too much pressure can cause muscles to seize up. Here i s a good rule of thumb -- on a scale of one to 10 where one is no pain and 10 is extremely painful, the pressure should always be less than seven.

9) I'm self-conscious about a certain part of my body and don't want the massage therapist to see me. What can I do? People are self-conscious for various reasons. Some of the more common concerns are: • I'm overweight. • I have excessive hair growth on my body. • I've got acne on my face or back. • My feet are ugly. • I have scars. Being self-conscious should never keep you from seeking health care, whether it's visiting your doctor or seeing a massage therapist. If you're self-conscious about a certain part of your body, you can ask the massage therapist to avoid that area. Or, you can opt for a therapy that is done through clothing, such as shiatsu or Thai massage. Because no massage oil or lotion is used, you remain fully clothed during the session. You can even bring your own comfortable clothes to wear. Just remember to provide complete and accurate information on your health history form, so that the massage therapist is aware of any precautions or contraindications.

10) I'd rather see a female massage therapist. Should I request this? Some men don’t feel comfortable having a massage by a male massage therapist. It may be due to outdated social and media stereotypes of the profession or the fear of getting an erection during the massage. Erection is a common physiological response that happens when the parasympathetic nervous system is activated by touch anywhere on the body. Some women also prefer a female massage therapist because they say they feel more comfortable. This doesn't just apply to massage therapy. A University of Michigan study found that 43 percent of women preferred a female doctor for a colonoscopy. Of these women, 87 percent said they would be willing to wait more than 30 days to get an appointment with a female colonoscopist, and 14 percent would be willing to pay more for one. Unfortunately, men who choose to become massage therapists are often unprepared for the discrimination they face. When clients request female over male therapists, spas stop hiring them, however skilled they are. That's why I believe it's important to challenge your preconceptions. Here are some tips to help you: • If you see other practitioners in the clinic or spa, ask if you could meet the massage therapist before you book the appointment. • You may wish to start with an active form of massage, such as deep tissue or sports massage or a type of massage that is done fully clothed, such as shiatsu or Thai massage. What to Expect During a Massage @ SNIP

TREATMENT TIMES: Most treatments require one hour. Please allow for undressing, dressing, consultation, and resting time.

LATE ARRIVALS: Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled treatment. Please understand scheduled services cannot be extended. An unrushed treatment will be rendered only for the remainder of the scheduled session. You will be responsible for the full service fee.

HEALTH INFORMATION: In order to ensure customized treatments and to accommodate special needs, a general health information form must be completed by each guest during their first visit. This form will help inform your therapists about your current state of health. An initial consultation between you and your therapist will then take place to discuss your treatment and any concerns you might have.

COMMUNICATION: Conversation with your massage therapist, during a session, depends on your need to talk. We will try to accommodate the client wishes. Relaxing music will also be provided. Please feel comfortable giving feedback to your therapist.

DRAPING, COMFORT & MODESTY:: Making you feel extremely comfortable is our goal. You will not be asked to expose yourself beyond the point at which you are comfortable, nor will you be asked to accept any treatment which has not been explained to you or which you do not choose to accept. You may need to undress for therapy, but your therapist will drape you with a sheet so that he/she has access only to that portion of your body on which he/she will be working. It is possible to work on a patient who is dressed, however, while this will obviously restrict the type of therapy you receive, you have a right to be respected in your choice.

OIL: Massage lotions will be used whenever there is skin contact. All lotions used are hypo-allergenic. If you have concerns of an allergic reaction please let us know.

SAFETY: For your safety and ours, we take all universal precautions necessary and use the finest methods in sterilization. Massage should be a safe, non-invasive and personal experience where the client is in control. Respect of the client's boundaries is our first priority. Each individual's musculature, tolerance to pressure and joint flexibility are different. It is very important for you to give feedback to the massage therapist so that each session can be tailored and fully maximized to your individual needs.

POST-MASSAGE: After you leave you may be feeling more relaxed, free from chronic aches and have new energy. Occasionally you might feel lethargic, sore or even have an emotional reaction. These are all normal post massage reactions. Remember to drink plenty of fluid (water) after each massage to ensure maximum recuperation.

Which Massage Style is Right for ME?

Here is a quick guide to the most popular types of massage to help you figure out which massage style is right for you.

1) Swedish Massage Therapy This is the most common type of massage in the United States. It is also known as Swedish massage or simply massage therapy. Massage therapists use long smooth strokes, kneading, and circular movements on superficial layers of muscle using massage lotion or oil. The main purpose of Swedish massage is to increase the oxygen flow in the blood and release toxins from the muscles.. It increases circulation without increasing heart load. It stretches the ligaments and tendons keeping them supple and pliable. Swedish Massage also stimulates the skin and nervous system and soothes the nerves themselves at the same time. Swedish massage therapy can be very gentle and relaxing. If you've never had massage before, this is a good one to try first. It reduces stress, both emotional and physical, and is suggested in a regular program for stress management.

2) Aromatherapy Massage Aromatherapy massage is massage therapy with the addition of one or more scented plant oils called essential oils to address specific needs. The massage therapist can select oils that are relaxing, energizing, stress-reducing, balancing, etc.) One of the most common essential oils used in aromatherapy massage is lavender. Aromatherapy massage is particularly suited to stress-related conditions or conditions with an emotional component.

3) Hot Stone Massage This highly requested treatment is the ultimate in stress release. The ancient practice of using smooth heated stones combined with massage techniques induces a deep state of relaxation, relieves aches and pains, and bring balance to the muscles and systems of the body.. This treatment is excellent for relieving stress and melting away tension. Hot Stone Therapy may be used on areas of injury or inflammation, and can increase circulation by facilitating the lymphatic system and removing toxins from the body. The warmth is comforting. Hot stone massage is good for people who have muscle tension but prefer lighter massage.

4) Deep Tissue Massage Deep tissue massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. The massage therapist uses slower strokes or friction techniques across the grain of the muscle. Deep tissue massage is used for chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems, or recovery from injury. People often feel sore for one to two days after deep tissue massage.

5) Shiatsu Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork that uses localized finger pressure in a rhythmic sequence on acupuncture meridians. Each point is held for 2 to 8 seconds to improve the flow of energy and help the body regain balance. People are normally pleasantly surprised when they try shiatsu for the first time. It is relaxing yet the pressure is firm, and there is usually no soreness afterwards.

6) Thai Massage Like shiatsu, Thai massage aligns the energies of the body using gentle pressure on specific points. Thai massage also includes compressions and stretches. You don't just lie there--the therapist moves and stretches you into a sequence of postures. It's like yoga without doing any work. Thai massage is more energizing than other forms of massage. It is also reduces stress and improves flexibility and range of motion.

7) Reflexology Although reflexology is sometimes called foot massage, it is more than simple foot massage. Reflexology involves applying pressure to certain points on the foot that correspond to organs and systems in the body. Reflexology is very relaxing, especially for people who stand on their feet all day or just have tired, achy feet.

8) Sports Massage Sports massage is specifically designed for people who are involved in physical activity. But you don't have to be a professional athlete to have one-it's also used by people who are active and work out often. The focus isn't on relaxation but on preventing and treating injury and enhancing athletic performance. A combination of techniques are used. The strokes are generally faster than Swedish massage. Facilitated stretching is a common technique. It helps to loosen muscles and increase flexibility.

9) Back Massage Some massage clinics and spas offer 30-minute back massages. If a back massage is not expressly advertised, you can also book a 30- or 40-minute massage and ask that the massage therapist to focus on your back.

OTHER CONCERNS RESERVATIONS: All Massage Therapy sessions must be made by appointment only. Payment must be made when the appointment is booked. Phone appointments (519 661.3090) are taken with credit card information. Our Registered Massage Therapists will issue an official receipt for health insurance claims at the actual appointment. When a guest makes a reservation for services, a credit card number or gift certificate number is retained.

SETTLING YOUR ACCOUNT: All charges are requested to be paid prior to the service. Cash, personal check, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted. There is a $50 fee for returned checks.

CANCELLATION POLICY: We request if a reservation must be cancelled, it be done 24 hours prior to the scheduled service time. If less than 24 hours notice is given, a cancellation fee of $30 will be charged.

GIFT CERTIFICATES: Gift certificates are available upon request for any service. Massage Therapy gift certificates are a great gift and may be used by anyone. When redeeming a gift certificate for Massage Therapy, the gift certificate must be presented when booking appointments. Therefore, appointments with gift certificates must be booked in-person.

GRATUITIES: Tipping is neither required nor expected. We are grateful for your continued loyalty and referrals.

NO SMOKING POLICY is strictly enforced. All tobacco and nicotine products must be extinguished prior to your entrance onto the premises.

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES are not permitted on the premises.

PETS are not permitted on the premises.

SERIES VISITS: If you plan to enjoy a particular service often, purchase 6 visits and save 10% or purchase 12 visits and save 15%. Create your own series of 6 or 12 visits with the same discount. To ensure availability of all visits, pre-booking is recommended. In order to give our guests the discount for any series purchase, services need to be rendered in the allocated time frame. Series of 6 visits expires 6 months after initial purchase. Series of 12 visits expires 12 months after initial purchase. If services are not rendered within the time frame allocated, the remaining services will be voided. Series purchases are Non-Transferable. PARTY @ SNIP Host a guys night out party at SNIP. Invite your friends and family to relax in the comfort of our place. GROOMS: Preparing for a wedding is a time-honored ritual. It's a time when all eyes will be on you. An important focus during this exciting and busy time is stress relief. Spend an afternoon with us and invite your friends and family. ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS: Limousine service is available to and from SNIP for an additional fee. Please allow a minimum of 24 hours notice for arrangements.