Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Be Informed!

Here you will find frequently asked questions and information on Whitewave Bodywork’s own policies and procedures.

Massage Oils
Some kinds of massage sessions require the application of oil to the skin. All oils used are 100% natural vegan products. In some cases, essential oils may be added to the basic carrier oils to enhance the therapeutic effects of the massage. In these cases, the client will be informed of the types of essential oils to be used, the therapeutic benefits of their use and any risks of allergic reaction.

Medical History
Your first session will begin with an interview and review of your health history.  There is no fee for this time. You will be asked a series of questions and an assessment will be performed. This is an important process to determine the course of treatment that will best meet your needs. During this time you will need to disclose information about your health history in order to rule out any contraindications for massage. In some cases you may be asked to provide a written release from your primary care physician in order to receive massage. Keep in mind that your medical records will be held confidential. In some cases the information from your chart may be shared with other health care providers, but only with your written permission.

Draping
Each session you will be instructed to undress to your comfort level. During all sessions, clients are covered and draped with sheets and towels, uncovering only the body part to be worked on. The genitals are never exposed or massaged. Even after disclosing this information clients still feel unsure as to whether it is customary to remove undergarments. Yes, this is well accepted during a massage if you are comfortable, it makes our job easier to not have restrictive items of clothing in the way of gliding strokes. No worries, do what’s comfortable for you.

Communication
During sessions, clients are encouraged to relax, and inform the practitioner if anything makes them uncomfortable, either physically or psychologically. Talking may occur during the session, but often you will be asked to save conversation for afterward, as the massage session may take a good deal of concentration. If something feels uncomfortable during the session, please speak up immediately so that adjustments to the treatment can be made as soon as possible.

Punctuality
It is important that you are on time for all appointments. A certain amount of time is allotted for each client visit. If you are late, your remaining time may not be sufficient for your full treatment. Nevertheless, the full session fee is charged. If the practitioner is late, the treatment lasts the full allotted session time or the treatment fee is prorated.

Cancellation Policy
Everyone loses when you miss an appointment… your therapist, another client who may have wanted your appointment, and more importantly, YOU! Please allow 24 hours notice (or more) if you need to cancel or re-schedule. If you call less than 24 hours prior to your appointment, you will be subject to pay a cancellation fee of $20. Exceptions may be made in the event of true emergencies, at the discretion of the practitioner.

Payment
Payment for all services is due at the time of your visit. Many insurance carriers now cover massage therapy. If you have insurance, you must submit your insurance information for approval before your session, acquire a prescription from your primary care physician (complete with a diagnosis code, duration, and recommended frequency of treatment) and pay your co-pay at the time of service.

Professionalism
Personal and professional boundaries are respected at all times. Referrals to the appropriate specialists are made when work is not within the scope of practice of the massage therapist or not in the client’s best interest. Accurate records are kept and charts are reviewed before each session. All client information is held confidentially. All clients are treated with respect regardless of their age, gender, race, national origin, sexual orientation, religion, socioeconomic status, body type, political affiliation, state of health or personal habits.

What to Expect
When you walk in the door, you will be greeted by the receptionist for Ideal Image. Please tell her you have an appointment with Whitewave Bodywork and have a seat in the waiting area. There will be a 2 page intake form for you to fill out so that all important information in regard to your health and well being is documented. You will then be guided to the treatment room, and instructed to get undressed as far as you feel comfortable. (People commonly question how far to undress even after this statement has been made. It is common for people to completely disrobe, but some people choose to leave their undergarments on while other choose to wear all the clothes they came in wearing. It really is up to you.) You will be covered by a full length top sheet and blanket while on the massage table. Full body draping techniques will be used so that you are warm, comfortable, and in no way exposed during your treatment no matter what path you chose while deciding what was comfortable. Your treatment will be a 1/2 hour, 1 hour, or 90 minute session (by your choice) and at the conclusion, you will be given a few moments to relax before joining the world again.

In the Hours After Your Massage
After your massage you may notice profound changes in your body and mind. Here are some things that have helped many people get the most from their massage:

  • Drink extra water. During a massage circulation is improved, which helps flush irritating waste products from muscles and other tissues. Drinking water aids the functioning of the whole body including circulation and the kidneys- which are both involved with relieving the body of waste products. Drinking extra water can help reduce soreness and fatigue after a massage.
  • Schedule time to take it easy after your massage. Rest if you feel the need. If you can, take a nap or get in bed early. If you haven’t been sleeping well, receiving massage may relax you enough that you will want to turn in and catch up.
  • If the focus of your massage is on a particular injury or body part, remember to stretch, ice, or apply heat to that area per the advice of your therapist. You may even want to do some gentle movement, such as walking, or gentle stretching sometime in the hours after your massage to mildly encourage your muscles to work in a balanced and efficient way.
  • People sometimes experience soreness 24-48 hours after a massage. If you do feel sore or think that you might, stretch gently in a hot shower or take a warm bath with Epsom salts. And remember to tell your massage therapist about your experience so it can be taken into consideration in your next session.

Why you SHOULD cancel if you’re ill
If you have a fever or an infectious sickness (even a common cold) please postpone your appointment. You may be contagious, especially in the first stages of a cold or flu. This is usually when you are feeling the worst, when you are coughing and sneezing frequently. The more you limit your contact with others, including your massage therapist, the less you will spread it around. Another reason to avoid massage when you have a cold or flu is because massage increases circulation – so massage could potentially increase the spread of infection in your body. If you are sick, your immune system is already working hard. One of the best immune supports may truly be resting and drinking plenty of liquids. And, remember, whenever you have any questions about the appropriateness of massage, be sure to talk with your therapist when you schedule the appointment. If you are under the care of a physician for any reason, please let them know you are receiving massage therapy.


What’s your return policy?

Return any of our products–no questions asked–within 30 days of purchase. We even pay return shipping.


Do you ship oversees and to P.O. boxes?

Yes, we’ll ship your package anywhere that can accept deliveries.


Do you have customer service?

Of course! Our friendly and knowledgeable customer services reps are available to answer your questions 24/7/365.