Frequently Asked Questions
Here we answer some of the questions you may have before coming for your massage treatment at Serenity Massage Therapy. You can also use the CONTACT page to send me a message
What is massage therapy?
Massage Therapy is the manipulation of the superficial and deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue, by using various techniques applied by a qualified massage therapist. Massage can enhance muscle function, aid the bodies healing process, increase the range of movement of joints, decrease muscle reflex action, reduce pain and aid relaxation.
Which type of massage should I book?
If you have general aches and pains, a Deep Tissue massage would be appropriate. For an injury, a Sports & Remedial massage can be more specific, and can also include stretches and home-care advice. For relaxation, a Swedish Massage is the most popular option, and can still be focused on the areas you would like to be worked on.
How often should I have massage?
This will depend on the level of tension you have.
Specific Tension, Pain Condition or Chronic Stress Plan
I would advise having some treatments closer together - usually every 7 - 10 days for at least 3 treatments - I would re-assess after reaching that point and advise further.
Tension Prevention and Health Maintenance Plan
If you have low level tension that is not causing any pain or discomfort. Having a massage as part of your health care routine, I recommend a massage every 4 weeks. I have a monthly membership plan that reminds you to come in for your massage. You can save ££’s by joining our membership!
What should I expect when I come in for my first appointment?
When you visit for the first time, I will go through a consultation and ask some relevant questions to establish the specific issues you would like worked on, what you would like to achieve from the treatment, and if there are any conditions that need addressing, to ensure a massage treatment is appropriate for you. It is essential you list any health conditions, and any medication you may be taking, to ensure I can adapt the treatment appropriately to your needs without doing any harm. It is also important to advise if you suffer from any allergies, to ensure I don’t use any oils that may cause a reaction.
I may also ask you to carry out some range of movement assessments and testing to evaluate your condition.
Your comfort is very important to me! I want to make your treatment as enjoyable as possible so you can get the most out of the treatment. If there is anything at all that is not quite right, for example: the room temperature; comfort/position on the bed; the pressure being applied; or even the music being played, please communicate this so I can help.
How much does a treatment cost?
Each therapy is priced based upon the time, resources and techniques used, see our Therapy Price List page for prices on specific treatments. I do offer discounts on block bookings.
Do you accept Health Insurance (HealthShield)?
You can often claim back the cost of your treatment if you are a member of HealthShield. Please see our HealthShield Health Insurance page for more information.
What is your Cancellation/Amendment Policy?
We require a minimum of 24 hours notice of change/cancellation or your deposit/voucher may be forfeit. Any subsequent changes to you appointment will require 48 hours notice, and if you change your appointment 3 times or more we may elect to cancel your appointment, at our sole discretion.
Why do you need to take my medical history?
This is very important to understand anything which might need focus or caution when carrying out your massage treatment. Massage Therapy is safe for the majority of people, however there are some instances where massage wouldn’t be suitable, or written permission may be required from your GP. I will go through your medical history during the consultation process.
Do I have to undress for a Massage Treatment?
You will be advised how far you would need to undress, if any, as it would differ depending on the treatment you are having. If you are not comfortable undressing to a particular level, then if required the treatment can be adapted – it is important to communicate this to me before the start of your treatment!
You will be given privacy to undress and get yourself comfortable on the massage table. You will also be covered by a sheet or towel during the massage, and only the area being worked on will be uncovered.
I am pregnant. Can I be treated?
Yes you can. I can work with women in all trimesters of pregnancy. The massage is carried out while side lying. I may ask you to go onto your back, but I will raise the back of the table up slightly so you are not completely flat on your back. There are some things that need to be taken into consideration before booking:
*You must not have any problems with high or unstable blood pressure.
*For postnatal massage, you must have had your postnatal check-up.
When is it best to avoid massage?
Massage is generally very safe when provided by a qualified therapist however sometimes there are instances when a massage is not recommended:
Suffering from Cold or Flu
Contagious infection
High Temperature/Fever
Receiving Cancer Treatment
Deep Vein Thrombosis
Stroke
Heart Attack
For the full list of contra-indications, click here. Please note, if you attend with a listed contra-indication, we may not be able to refund any deposit you have paid.
What oils do you use?
I have a variety of different mediums available to use during your massage. Usually for deeper work I will use massage wax or lotion and for relaxation treatments I can use aromatherapy oils. I will always ensure the oil used is suitable for you.
What type of Massage should I choose?
This really depends what you would like to get out of your session. I am able to adapt and combine the treatments I offer, to suit your requirements.
The description of each treatment, and what their benefits can be, are available from the Therapies Page to help you decide what would suit you best.
If you have any specific questions please contact me and I can assist.
Are you qualified to provide massage treatments?
I am fully qualified and my certificates of qualifications are readily available by request.
How will I feel after a Massage Treatment?
Most people feel very relaxed. Some may experience a decrease in aches and pains and possibly increased range of movement in joints. Many feel a little slowed down or sleepy for a short period and then notice an increase of energy, heightened awareness and increased productivity which can last for days.
If you have received a firm to deep pressure massage, you may be slightly sore the next day (like the day after doing a workout at the gym). A soak in the bath can sometimes alleviate this. You are advised to increase your water intake after your treatment so as not to become dehydrated.
What is the best way to book an appointment?
Treatments are by appointment. I am not always available to answer the phone. Booking Online is the easiest way to book an appointment. You will be able to see my availability, and also what treatments are available at that time.
Why is your phone going to an Answering Machine?
I am not always free and available to answer calls. The answering machine is regularly checked, so if you leave a message I will usually get back to you fairly quickly. Alternatively if you would like to email me, please use the Contact Us page, and I will get back to you as soon as possible. Please remember that you can also Book Appointment Online.
Can I visit you to buy a Gift Voucher?
I work by appointment and if you wish to come and collect a voucher please contact me and I can arrange for you to come along and collect.
Can I purchase a gift voucher for one of your special offers?
Gift vouchers are available by length (eg. 60min Massage) or value (eg. £60). I am unable to provide Gift Vouchers for any special offers I may be running, however you can book these in for your loved ones (just remember to use your own contact details on the booking if it is a surprise!).
I have paid and I am cancelling my appointment. Can I get my payment back?
You can choose to keep your payment on file and apply against your next appointment once you are able to re-schedule. If we are given sufficient notice of a cancellation and you wish your payment to be refunded, please note that the refund process may take around 5 working days. If I am given less than 24 hours notice of cancellation or rescheduling an appointment your payment may be lost. Please note that I cannot refund Gift Vouchers.
How long are block bookings valid for?
Block bookings are valid for 6 months from purchase date. For Gift Vouchers, all appointments in the block must be used by the Gift Voucher expiry date, which is typically 6 months. Please be aware, our usual cancellation & amendments policy applies.
How long are Gift Vouchers valid for?
Typically, gift vouchers are valid for around 6 months, and the expiry date will be stated on the voucher. If the gift voucher was part of a special promotional offer, the validity could be less. Please book in good time before the expiry of any gift vouchers. To ensure your appointment is at a suitable time, please bear in mind that evenings, Fridays and Saturdays fill up quickest, so you may need to book 1 week in advance or more. In extenuating circumstances, Serenity may opt to extend the validity period of a gift voucher. Higher Value Gift Vouchers over £300 will have an expiry of 12 months.
I have been told by my GP that massage is not suitable for me. Is there an alternative treatment that can aid relaxation?
I also offer Reiki, which is a Japanese Energy Healing method which aids relaxation. Click Here for more details.