I have never had a massage. How will this go?

First, I’ll welcome you to the space and make sure you are feeling comfortable and safe. Then we will have conversation based on the form you filled out prior to your appointment and talk about how you are feeling in your body that day. We’ll talk about what is most important to you in terms of goals for our time together. Then together we'll make a plan for the session making sure you feel good about the plan and next steps.

Next, I will leave the room while you undress to your comfort level. After a few minutes, I will knock on the door and we will begin the hands-on work based on our conversation and what I am finding in your body and tissues. I will communicate as much or as little as you need, checking in about pressure and taking notice of any and all verbal and non-verbal cues.

Finally, we'll wrap up our time with a moment of rest, rehydration, and conversation.

What kind of massage do you offer?

My overall style is based in relaxation and energetic listening. What that means practically is that I use long flowing strokes, mainly directing them in the direction of the heart-center. I use my hands, arms, elbows, thumbs, as well as the weight of my body to apply pressure and flow. Energetically, I use Reiki and healing touch modalities (certified level 1 in these), as well as my own intuition and senses. Additionally, when appropriate, I use trigger point protocol, a theragun, cupping, hot stones, towels (both hot and cold), hot oil, acupressure, and aromatherapy. These are always employed with advance consent and can be requested ahead of our appointment. People describe my massage style as fully connected and tuned in. No two sessions are ever the same.

If I book a 60 minute massage, will I receive a full 60 minutes? Or does the talking part take away from my massage time?

Whether you are booked for a 60, 90, or 120 minute massage, the time you book is always hands-on massage time. The time you spend in conversation before the massage, dressing or undressing, and talking afterward, is planned and on my time.

What if I am running late?

If you are running late, that WILL cut into your time. Your hands-on time will be reduced and that time is not refundable. Plan ahead. It is customary to be 5 minutes early. The waiting area is peaceful and a lovely way to take a breath and center yourself before coming to the table.

What if I have an emergency come up?

Please reach out right away. Call the office first at (612) 419-7207 and then email me directly at rachel at nestmassageandcare dot com.

What forms of payment do you accept?

I LOVE cash. Checks are cool if I know you personally. I will happily take Venmo and credit cards (using Square) as forms of payment as well. As you may already know Venmo and Square both take a cut of the sale, which is fine and is the cost of business. But now you can understand why I love cash. And with checks, God help you if you bounce one.

What about tipping?

Tipping is not required or expected but is accepted with gratitude. I hope someday that massage therapy will be treated like health care, but we are a long way from that place today. I do not depend on tips, but if you would like to leave a tip, you are welcome to add the gratuity at checkout. Another great sign of appreciation is to refer your friends and family and people you like. Please do not refer people you don’t like.

Undressing to my comfort level: What does that mean?

Some people prefer to keep their underoos on, some people prefer to be nakey. Some keep socks or pants on because they do not want work on those areas. All of these are completely welcome options. We will talk through the plan for your session and if you would like to keep clothes on areas that we have discussed, please simply let me know and I will talk through the adjustment with clothing on. NO MATTER WHAT you will be securely covered by a blanket and sheet throughout the service, with only the area being massaged exposed. Your safety and comfort is my priority.

Any other questions, please send them my way! I love questions.

rachel at nestmassageandcare dot com