Services
Treatments Offered
Massage therapy is an umbrella term for various techniques and modalities that involve manipulation of the body’s soft tissues to promote relaxation, pain relief and overall well-being. Therapists are trained to deliver different types of massages depending on the client’s needs.
My services are focused on the healing arts, activating the parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest) and in respect of the philosophy that “in order to fully engage, one must fully relax.” I currently offer Manual Lymphatic Drainage massage and Reiki / Energy work.
Learn more about the specific styles and tips for pre- and post-session. Speaking of, if you’re ready to skip straight to booking, fill out this form to request an appointment!
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
I practice the Klose version of the Vodder Manual Lymphatic Drainage Technique. This is a medical modality which primarily uses a skin stretching technique which increases the movement of lymph fluids around the body to decongest tissue. It is extremely gentle and typically no lotion is used.
Essentially, lymphatic drainage helps decongest and detoxify tissue, which helps reduce pain and activates a relaxation response. More significantly, MLD helps boost the immune system by calming the inflammatory response and supporting the body’s own mechanism to detoxify. For those without medical conditions, MLD can help cosmetically, helping reduce bloating by improving digestion, moving fluid out of the body, improving circulation of the skin, leaving a nice glow. Additional benefits include:
- Relaxing the body by activating the parasympathetic nervous system
- Stress-relief
- Pain reduction
- Reduces brain fog, chronic pain, headaches, bloating, post-exertional malaise/delayed onset muscle soreness, fatigue
Medical conditions MLD is indicated for include: lymphedema, autoimmune conditions, fibromyalgia, pre and post-surgery, chronic fatigue, insomnia, arthritis, and chronic pain.
The lymphatic system does not have a pump system like the blood circulatory system does, so it must e moved via exercise, deep diaphragmatic breathing, and manual manipulation, like MLD. By increasing the circulation of the lymphatic fluid via these techniques, waste products are moved manually from the body towards the heart to recirculate back through the liver and kidneys, exiting the body via urination.
Keeping your lymph system healthy helps your body defend against disease and infection. It will give the immune system a boost and can aid in any cleansing program. It calms the inflammatory response and supports the body’s own mechanism to detoxify.
Research shows the link between many chronic health situations and the inflammatory response. MLD will help manage both acute and chronic inflammation.
Stress is also a factor in many of today’s health issues. MLD is also excellent for both pain relief and stress reduction.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is for people who are looking for:
- Surgery recovery (e.g., cosmetic, orthopedic)
- Stress reduction
- MLD activates parasympathetic nervous system
- Detox support
- MLD helps detox body in conjunction with healthy diet, herbal supplements, catered exercise, and/or medically-supported detox protocols
- Autoimmune or chronic inflammatory condition management
- Exercise recovery
- Illness recovery
- Pain reduction
Specifically, it can help those experiencing the following symptoms or diagnoses:
- Autoimmune Conditions
- Mold/Heavy Metal Toxicities
- Lyme Disease
- Nervous System Dysregulation
- Trauma (Emotional or Physical)
- Lipedema/Lymphedema
- Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS)
- Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS)
- Mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS)
- Cancer
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Chronic venous insufficiency
- Varicose veins
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Menopause or hormonal adjustments
- Prenatal or perinatal (postpartum) depression
- Migraines
- Endometriosis or pelvic pain
Here are a few suggestions for making the most out of your lymphatic session. These are by no means required, but can help improve results:
- Arrive showered without lotion/oil on the skin
- Consume wholesome, nutritious, low-processed foods
- Eat at least 3 hours before your massage and eating light the remainder of the day
- Abdominal massage is an important component of this work. As such, having a stomach full of food can make MLD a bit uncomfortable. Furthermore, the lymphatic system is part of the immune system, and to help the lymph system expedite its clean-up task, lighter foods or a liquid diet or comforting soup like coconut butternut squash can really support this endeavor.
- Take supplements and herbal teas (under supervision of medical practitioner) which can help improve detox pathways.
- Some of my favorites are Yogi/Numi/Traditional Medicinal Detox Teas, activated charcoal, chlorella, high quality pre and probiotic fibers, etc.
- Plan to rest, if possible, after your treatment.
- MLD activates the parasympathetic nervous system, so resting after your treatment will help the work along. Additionally, some people do have symptoms such as fatigue after MLD. Because we are releasing metabolic waste products back into circulation on its way out of the body, this makes sense. Every body is different.
Your unique session may include recommended exercises, dry brushing, guided breathwork, detoxing education, and/or referrals to alternative medicinal practices/practitioners who can help find the root cause of your symptoms for a holistic approach to your healing.
Per certified lymphedema specialist (CLT) and lymph expert, Leah Levitan, “the lymphatic system pulls things out of the tissues in our body that don’t belong, things that can be contributing to our symptoms.”
Through this detoxing process, after your session you may experience flu-like symptoms (e.g., headache, joint and muscle pain, body aches, sore throat, fatigue, sweating, chills, nausea, or other symptoms.) This is common and is known as a Herxheimer or “Herx” reaction, which usually only last 1-2 days.
While this may sound (and even be) unpleasant in the short-term, the benefits are greater for the long-term. Plus, many people have no reaction at all and/or feel awesome immediately.
Detox tips for everyone
For everyone, to help you feel better sooner, follow these tips before and after your MLD session:
- Drink lots of water, and even better if you add electrolytes.
- Limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol for a few days, this will help give your liver a break so that it can focus on helping with detoxing from the session.
- Incorporate some gentle movement pre and post session to help stimulate lymphatic flow—yoga, walking, Qigong, rebounding, vibration plate, or breathwork.
- Prioritize your sleep. We all know it’s important to get good rest, but this is especially true when detoxing.
- Draw yourself a bath, adding Epsom salt, which helps with detoxing and also sooth aches and pains. Perhaps add essential oils or other botanics to support ongoing relaxation.
- Take care of your to-dos before your session. Sometimes detox symptoms can start within hours, so it’s often best to just head straight home. Besides, why not just stay hummin’ in post-massage bliss?
- Nourish your body. Try grabbing some bone broth or make your own and store it in the fridge—it’s nutrient dense and will be restorative without much effort for prep or digestion.
Quoting Leah again, “just like your phone powers down after a software update, take this time to let your body reboot.”
Detox tips for those who need extra care
For those who may experience a higher toxic burden from a MLD session (e.g., those with Lyme, Gilbert’s Syndrom, MTHFR, BII), here are a few additional tips to support detoxification:
- Take a binder (i.e., a supplement that supports detoxification), such as the BioToxin binder by Cellcore.
- Do a coffee enema before and/or after your session, such as the HappyBum Co kit.
- Use a castor oil pack, such as Queen Of Thrones products or other products, so long as they package their product in opaque glass bottles (protects the product).
To help you feel better sooner, follow these tips before and after your MLD session:
- Drink lots of water, and even better if you add electrolytes.
- Limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol for a few days, to give your liver a break so it can focus detoxing from the session.
- Incorporate some gentle movement pre and post session to stimulate lymphatic flow—e.g., yoga, walking, Qigong, rebounding, vibration plate, or breathwork.
- Prioritize your sleep. We all know it’s important to get good rest, but this is especially true when detoxing.
- Draw yourself a bath, adding Epsom salt, which helps with detoxing and also soothes aches and pains. Try adding essential oils or botanics for relaxation.
- Take care of your to-dos before your session. Sometimes detox symptoms can start within hours, so it’s often best to just head straight home. Besides, why not just stay hummin’ in post-massage bliss?
- Nourish your body. Try grabbing some bone broth or make your own and store it in the fridge—it’s nutrient dense and will be restorative without much effort for prep or digestion.
Quoting Leah again, “just like your phone powers down after a software update, take this time to let your body reboot.”
For those who may experience a higher toxic burden from a MLD session (e.g., those with Lyme, Gilbert’s Syndrome, MTHFR, BII), here are a few additional tips:
- Take a binder (i.e., a supplement that supports detoxification), such as the BioToxin binder by Cellcore.
- Do a coffee enema before and/or after your session, such as the HappyBum Co kit.
- Use a castor oil pack, such as Queen Of Thrones products or other products, so long as they package their product in opaque glass bottles (protects the product).
Shelly Meshke | Shelly Meshke Massage
shellymeshkemassage.com
Phone: 719-371-2592
Email: [email protected]
Address: 555 North Avenue, Unit 4, Grand Junction, CO 81501
For appointments: Complete the Appointment Request Form on her website, call, or email.
Various | Body Therapeutics
Website: bodytmm.com
Phone Number: (970) 644-5255
Address: 2500 Broadway, Grand Junction, CO 81503
For appointments: Call or visit their website for booking information
CranioSacral Therapy, Level 1
I practice the Upledger version of CranioSacral Therapy (CST), which was pioneered and developed by osteopathic physician, clinical researcher and Professor of Biomechanics, John E. Upledger.
CST is a gentle, hands-on method of evaluating and enhancing the functioning of the craniosacral system, which is comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. The craniosacral spinal fluid rhythm is seen as another essential biorhythm in the body.
CST works with the body’s natural rhythms to support and nourish the central nervous system. CST includes a 10-part protocol to assess fascia health, the central nervous system (CNS), basic cranial bone compression/decompression, Direction of Energy, and dural tube traction. Cranial bones are used as a lever to traction and release fascia in membranes of the brain to improve lymphatic and cranial spinal fluid flow and function.
Practitioners use a soft touch, generally no greater than the weight of a nickel, to release restrictions in the craniosacral system, which has been shown to improve the functioning of the CNS and many other bodily systems. By facilitating the body’s natural healing processes, CST is increasingly used as a preventive health measure for its ability to bolster resistance to disease. It has been shown to be beneficial for people seeking help with a wide range of healthcare challenges and symptoms, including physical components related to conditions such as Post Traumatic Stress, depression, and anxiety.
I hold a Level 1 certification from the Upledger Craniosacral Therapy series and have been practicing since June 2024.
Reiki and Energy Work
Reiki is a type of energy work and stress-relieve technique from Japan. Mikao Usui was credited as founder of Reiki about 1922. The practice is guided by spiritual consciousness and is defined as spiritually guided life energy.
In general, Rei means universal and Ki means Life force energy. All energy healing uses chi or ki, but Rei is unique to Reiki. Practitioners are attuned to Rei or spiritual consciousness by a Reiki Master. Because Reiki is guided by universal consciousness, it can never do harm.
I have been certified in Holy Fire Reiki Levels I and II and Reiho Reiki Level I and practicing Reiki since 2019.
We are alive because ki or life force energy flows through us. When ki is flowing freely, a person will feel a sense of wellness, health, and vitality. If there is a disruption in the flow of healthy Ki, illness or dysfunction in the physical, spiritual, or emotional body can occur. During a session, Reiki will find its way to blocked pathways to clear and heal the energy pathways. Essentially, Reiki is aiding the body in healing itself, and the treatment helps turn on one’s own healing mechanisms Many people sense better sense of balance, flow, and dynamic ease after sessions.
Many people can benefit from Reiki. Specifically, I find those who are most positively impacted include anyone…
- in need of stress-relief, balance, and a remembering that they are a soul having an earthly experience.
- hoping to strengthen their connection to divine lifeforce energy, intuition, soul essence and soul contract.
- needing clarity about a decision that needs to be made, who want to manifest a goal, dream or desire.
- who wants to connect with their own bodies healing mechanisms and sense of wellness to cope with or recover from illness, injury, surgery, or life transitions, and trauma.
- wanting to invite peace and pain reduction due to terminal illness.
- seeking a respite from the suffering inherent in the human experience, or those desiring to practice the meditative art of learning to suffer well.
While there is nothing you need to do to prepare for a Reiki Session, there are a few opportunities clients may choose to practice both prior and after their appointments to enhance their session and gain clarity about an aspect of their lives they’d like to put an intention towards.
These activities may include:
- Prayer or meditation
- Journaling
- Walking in nature
- Gardening
- Arts and crafts
If an intention comes to you, feel free to keep it in mind or write it down and bring it with you. There is no pressure to share personal information during a session. You will have an opportunity to speak as little or as much as you like, in fact. During the treatment there will be also be a period-of-time where I will invite quiet reflection while facilitating Reiki and listening to the body.
Otherwise, it’s great to show up and be up open to the process. Each session may feel different. I have come into an appointment with no intention at all and let the intention present itself during the session or later on. If nothing comes up, that’s ok, too—there is nothing wrong.
I will check-in to discuss your goals for the session. You are welcome to share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. There may be an invitation to engage in a short writing exercise, engage in a short meditation practice or meditation before or while lying on the table. You will be invited to lay down, fully clothed, on the massage table, with the option to be tucked in with a blanket, bolsters, pillows, and with the option of having a heated table warmer on.
I will then facilitate Reiki using tactile (placing hands on the body) and energetic touch (hovering hands over the body to work with aura/energetic body).
I encourage embracing a quiet space during this part of the treatment, which I feel allows me to channel into the energetic space more deeply.
However, I also encourage you to communicate openly about what comes up and if hand placements need to be adjusted. For example, some clients may not enjoy the hand placement over the neck or the chest/heart space. Short poetry readings, excerpts from divine literature, meditations, affirmations, essential oil or sound therapy may also be incorporated into the session.
After the treatment is done, you will be invited to ease back into the room, drink a little water, and have the opportunity to share what comes up. Sometimes words, symbols, or themes arise that I will share with you.
While I do not attempt to interpret any deeper meanings of your experience, or symbols that arise, I encourage you to journal or spend some time journaling and in meditation later, if possible.
As Reiki can help strengthen one’s own divine connection and intuition, after a session you may notice more awareness or clarity with regard to decisions or solutions. Many find Reiki practice brings a sense of balance, flow, peace, or clarity.
At the same time, energy work may cause uncomfortable feelings or memories to arise. I encourage accepting all feelings that come up. Again, I encourage you to take extra time to reflect later in the day or several days after the session.
Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is a form of relaxation therapy which activates the parasympathetic (rest and digest) nervous system response. This treatment is characterized by long, flowing strokes or circular movements with gentle kneading, skin rolling, and light friction, to relieve tension and improve blood flow. The treatment may also include a short meditation, affirmations, MLD or Manual Lymphatic Drainage techniques (to promote relaxation and decongestion of tissue), rocking compression, sound therapy, cupping, essential oils, hot stones, or hot towels. You will be nourished and deeply cared for during this session.
...integrated with Reiki and Energy Work (also known as “Parasympathetic Paradise”)
The integration of energy work, including Reiki, will deepen the intention of the practice by activating the holistic body’s healing processes. Energy work helps promote the flow of ki or lifeforce energy to release blocked energy in the body’s energy field. Kat serves as a conduit for the Reiki to flow where it needs to, culminating in an increase in relaxation, mindfulness, and inner peace. To get the most out of your relaxation massage with energy work, it is essential to inform your therapist beforehand in communicating your needs and expectations. The treatment may also include a short meditation, affirmations, MLD or Manual Lymphatic Drainage techniques (to promote relaxation and decongestion of tissue), rocking compression, sound therapy, essential oils, hot stones, or hot towels.
…integrated with Cupping
Cupping or Cupping therapy is a type of traditional medicine originating from China and West Asia. They (the cups) are placed on the body creating a vacuum or suction force, pulling the skin upward, which draws fluid into the area. The suction expands and breaks small blood vessels or capillaries, beneath the skin, causing therapeutic inflammation. The body then replenishes this area with healthy, nutrient and oxygen-rich blood flow, which stimulates normal healing at the cellular level. Traditionally cups were made of glass and fire was used to create suction, often leaving them in a stationary position. I perform running cupping, using primarily soft silicone push cups and hard plastic suction cups for deeper pressure.
Primary benefits of cupping include:
- Reduces pain and inflammation
- Decreases muscle tightness
- Improves blood flow
- Increases range of motion for those with injuries
- May remove metabolic waste products
…integrated with Hot Stones
Hot Stone Massage is a deeply relaxing therapy that utilizes heated basalt stones to warm and soothe the muscles. The therapist places the stones on strategic points of the body, using them to apply pressure and smooth away tension. This type of massage is especially beneficial for those with muscle pain, tension, or stiffness. It is also great for people who are looking for a way to unwind and relax after a long day. During a session, clients can expect to feel a sense of warmth and comfort as smooth, heated stones are used to massage the body. The experience is so soothing that many people fall into a deep state of relaxation and even doze off during the session.
Anyone in need of a relaxation massage or wants a spa-like experience characterized by a relaxation massage which include the nourishing delights of essential oils, hot towels, hot stones, or sound therapy.
Arrive showered and ready to relax. We recommend avoiding eating large meals right before a massage. If you’d like your session to emphasis more of the energetic healing (e.g., the Parasympathetic Paradise session), some clients find setting an intention helps energy flow where it needs to go to help manifest desires, release what is no longer serving them, or to reconnect with intuition, soul essence, or soul contacts.
See common massage FAQs for more information.
Cupping shouldn’t hurt, but you may feel some skin tightness during the procedure. After cupping, you may feel slightly itchy or sore but shouldn’t feel severely uncomfortable.
Cupping can break small blood vessels under the skin, so there may be round marks or speckled areas called petechiae. These typically fade withing 1-4 days of treatment.
Cupping can be beneficial for:
- Pain conditions
- Muscular tightness (common areas include the back, neck, knee, shoulder)
- Myofascial release
- Arthritis
- Entrapment syndromes (Ex. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome)
- Headaches and migraines
Cupping is completely contraindicated for those with:
- Cancer
- Organ failure (e.g., renal, hepatic, or cardiac)
- Pacemakers
- Hemophilia or similar bleeding disorders
- Acute Infections
- Conditions requiring anticoagulants (blood thinners) such as aspirin, warfarin
- Chronic disease (e.g., heart disease)
- Pregnancy
- Anemia
- Who have recent given blood
- Who have recently undergone certain medical procedures
After a cupping session, it is recommended you avoid:
- Caffeine, alcohol, sugary foods and drinks, dairy, and processed meats
- These foods slow down your body’s ability to process the treatment.
- Hot showers, saunas, hot tubs and strong air conditioning
- Intense exercise
- Cold and windy conditions.
Cups are soaked and scrubbed in hot soapy water first. To disinfect, I soak cups in 7.5% Hydrogen peroxide for at least 30 minutes for high-level disinfection. Cups are often sterilized by leaving them in the 7.5 Hydrogen peroxide for 6+ hours and left to dry on a clean towel or drying mat.
Session Options and Pricing
See below for pricing and length of session options for each massage type. Packages are available for all types of Manual Lymphatic Drainage and Swedish sessions. For options and pricing, please reach out to me via email ([email protected]) or the contact form.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
This form of massage encourages the movement of lymph fluids around the body, helping to decongest tissue, reducing pain and enhancing relaxation response. It will give the immune system a boost and can aid in any cleansing program. It calms the inflammatory response and supports the body’s own mechanism to detoxify. Indicated for lymphedema management, autoimmune conditions, fibromyalgia, illness recovery, long-COVID, pre and post-surgery, chronic fatigue, insomnia, arthritis, and chronic pain.
45 minutes // $65
60 minutes // $90
75 minutes // $105
90 minutes // $120
Manual Lymphatic Drainage for Lymphedema management
Specific to those with lymphedema, this medical massage approach is intended to encourage the natural drainage of lymphatic fluid from the tissue space body. We will focus on specific sections of the body (and surrounding areas) where the lymphedema is most severe and will integrate MLD with deep tissue techniques to break up fibrotic scar tissue areas working to free the body from blockages to affect positive change for your lymphatic system and introduce a healthier flow.
60 minutes // $90
75 minutes // $105
90 minutes // $120
Post Operative Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Specific to those who are post-operative (e.g., recently having had an operation / surgery), this gentle Manual Lymphatic Drainage approach focuses on draining excess fluid post-surgery, allowing your body to recover more quickly, prevent fibrosis and scar tissue forming, and with less stress to your system.
60 minutes // $90
75 minutes // $105
90 minutes // $120
CranioSacral Therapy, Level 1
CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on manual therapy that works with the natural, unique rhythms of the body to support and nourish the central nervous system, as well as identify and address areas of imbalance in the craniosacral and related systems. Cranial bones are used as a lever to release fascia in the brain’s membranes, thereby improving lymphatic and cranial spinal fluid. CST works with the body’s natural, self-correcting healing mechanisms to improve overall health and well-being, and can be a lovely pairing with Reiki and MLD.
60-75 minutes // $50
Reiki and Energy Work
Reiki is a Japanese energy-work technique and a safe, holistic healing method for stress reduction, relaxation, and healing. This technique is administered by “laying on hands” (both tactilely and energetically) to facilitate life force energy. If one’s life force energy is low, they are more likely to be sick/stressed, and if it is high, they are more likely to be happy and healthy. Reiki may be combined with my own personal style of energy-work and gentle therapeutic touch, including lymphatic drainage.
45 minutes // $50
60 minutes // $65
Swedish Massage with Energy Work
Fondly referred to as a Parasympathetic Paradise, this very light pressure treatment focused on nurturing, relaxation and activating the parasympathetic nervous system. Swedish massage is characterized by long flowing strokes. Energy work, manual lymphatic drainage, and other relaxation techniques condition the nervous system to relax, tuning down pain signals from the brain, reducing chronic pain patterns in the body. All treatments include hot towel treatment and aromatherapy. This style of session is intuitive and comforting.
45 minutes // $75
60 minutes // $90
75 minutes // $105
90 minutes // $120
Swedish Massage with Cupping
Gentle (light) pressure is used to perform relaxation massage techniques to relax the nervous system to help tissues melt and unwind. Simultaneously, static or dynamic cupping therapy targeting specified areas are used to pull, lift, open and expand the body’s soft tissues. Cupping helps bring fresh oxygenated blood to tissues, break up adhesions and knots.
60 minutes // $90
75 minutes // $105
90 minutes // $120
Swedish Massage with Hot Stones
Smooth stones are heated and then lubricated with oil or essential oils, the therapeutic effects of heat are used to relax muscles more deeply. Used as an extension of the therapist’s hands, the use of massage stones induces deep relaxation and provides a unique experience many find to be tremendously calming and centering. Very light pressure and Swedish massage are techniques are used.
60 minutes // $90
75 minutes // $105
90 minutes // $120
Packages
Packages are available for all types of Manual Lymphatic Drainage and Swedish sessions. For options and pricing, please reach out to me via email ([email protected]) or the contact form.
60 Minutes
Single Session: $90
6 Pack: $450 ($75/each)
5 Pack: $400 ($80/each)
4 Pack: $340 ($85/each)
75 Minutes
Single Session: $105
6 Pack: $540 ($90/each)
5 Pack: $475 ($95/each)
4 Pack: $400 ($100/each)
90 Minutes
Single Session: $120
6 Pack: $630 ($105/each)
5 Pack: $550 ($110/each)
4 Pack: $460 ($105/each)
Gift Certificates
Both electronic and paper gift certificates are available for purchase for any service offering. See below for details for how to purchase each type.
Physical gift certificates
These can be picked up at Kat’s office. Contact Kat to arrange a time via email at [email protected] or text at 970-852-5314
Electronic gift certificates
These can be purchased online via MassageBook, following these instructions:
- Visit massagebook.com/kmw
- Click the menu button (three lines at the top right corner of your screen) and select “Gift Certificates”
- Find your desired service and choose a duration (using the up and down arrows) and click the “Buy Now” button
- Choose your preferred gift certificate theme (e.g., Just for You, Happy Birthday, Merry Christmas, Happy Mother’s Day) and click the “Select” button underneath the design
- Complete form with sender details and recipient details, including a personalized written message (if desired) and preferred delivery method (print or email).
- Select “Preview Gift Certificate” at the bottom after you complete the form
- Click “Next: enter payment details” to add your debit/credit card information
- Enter payment details and click “Purchase Gift Certificate” to complete the process
Preparing For Your Session
To achieve optimal outcomes and relaxation during a massage therapy session, it is important to prepare both physically and mentally beforehand. Here are a few tips:
- Avoid eating large, heavy meals before the session.
- Drink plenty of water—hydrating the body is important as massage can release toxins into the bloodstream.
- Arrive early to allow time to fill out any necessary forms and to communicate your needs and expectations to the therapist.
- Wear comfortable clothes.
- Take a warm shower or bath, as it can help to relax the body and loosen any muscles that are tight or tense.
- Clear the mind of any distractions or stress and to be fully present in the moment for the massage.
Forms
Prior to attending your first massage session, you will be required to fill out some basic intake forms (e.g., contact information, prior injury information and goals for treatment.) Most intake forms will be submitted electronically via a link sent to your email address after your service has been booked. I will notify you if additional forms are required.
Products
Stay tuned for upcoming massage-related products to support your relaxation and wellbeing in and out of session.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
With so many different types of massage and techniques out there, it’s easy to wonder what you may need to know with each practitioner. In this section, I’ll answer some of the most common inquiries I receive to help you feel informed and confident before booking your next appointment.
If you have questions for specific treatment styles, check out each FAQ section for MLD, Reiki and Swedish.
Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music may be played to help you relax. You will lie on a table especially designed for your comfort.
Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, it is entirely up to you what you want to wear. You should undress to your level of comfort. Rest assured you will be properly draped during the entire session.
No. The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet or towel.
You will be properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed.
A typical full-body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders.
A relaxing Swedish massage is often a good baseline for clients. In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with broad, flowing strokes that will help calm your nervous system and relax exterior muscle tension. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax specific areas and relieve areas of muscular tension. Often, a light oil or lotion is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. The oil also helps hydrate your skin. You should communicate immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken. Massage and bodywork are most effective when your body is not resisting.
Yes and no. Sometimes talking is necessary and benefits the session. For example, it’s great during a session when clients tell me about whether the pressure feels right, any sensitive spots or other feedback that can help me customize their massage experience. Most of the time, though, I encourage my clients to “be here now” and to tune inward in order to maximize the healing of their session.
There are numerous types of massage and bodywork; various techniques utilize different strokes, including basic rubbing strokes, rocking movement, posture and movement re-education, application of pressure to specific points, and more. We can discuss which methods may be most appropriate for you.
Prior to the massage, feel free to ask the practitioner any questions about the technique or the upcoming session.
During the massage, make yourself comfortable. The practitioner will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm). Many people just close their eyes and completely relax, communicating if/when they need more or less pressure, another blanket, or anything else relevant to the session.
If you have any questions regarding the session or about the particular technique you are receiving, feel free to ask.
Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity.
After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days.
Since toxins are released from your soft tissues during a massage, it is recommended you drink plenty of water following your massage.
Massage and bodywork can help release chronic muscular tension and pain, improve circulation, increase joint flexibility, reduce mental and physical fatigue and stress, promote faster healing of injured muscular tissue, improve posture, and reduce blood pressure. They are also known to promote better sleep, improve concentration, reduce anxiety and create an overall sense of well-being.
Yes. That’s why it’s imperative that, before you begin your session, the practitioner asks general health questions.
It is very important that you inform me of any health problems or medications you are taking.
If you are under a doctor’s care, it is strongly advised that you receive a written recommendation for massage or bodywork prior to any session. Depending on the condition, approval from your doctor may be required.
By appointment: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday
Kat McArthur Wellness LLC
2501 Blichman Ave, Suite 119
Grand Junction , CO 81507
License: #0022537
Kat McArthur Wellness LLC
2501 Blichman Ave, Suite 119
Grand Junction , CO 81507
License: #0022537
By appointment: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday
By appointment: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday
Kat McArthur Wellness LLC
2501 Blichman Ave, Suite 119
Grand Junction , CO 81507
License: #0022537
© Copyright 2024 Kat McArthur Wellness LLC. All Rights Reserved.