Because massage is not a familiar part of our culture, many people fail to get the most out the their massage therapy session through lack of knowing a few simple "dos'" and "don'ts":

Tell the therapist about the areas of your body which are injured, tense or sore. Also mention any medical conditions such as high blood pressure, a heart problem or recent surgery.

Just lie there. Allow your therapist to move your limbs into whatever positions are required. Simply become limp and receive. Do not try to be helpful. Your therapist is a trained professional and knows what s/he is doing.

For the most part, talking is distracting and unnecessary. Good massage requires the concentration on the part of the therapist. Great massage requires the focused attention of both therapist and recipient.

However, always feel free to give feedback if anything is uncomfortable or you would like something done longer or differently. It is your body, your session, and you have complete control over both.

The best way to receive a massage is completely unclothed and without jewelry. The therapist is sensitive to issues of privacy and will keep you covered with a sheet or towel, except for the area being massaged.

Very often, as the body releases tension, the mind releases emotion. If emotions surface, do not be afraid to express them. If you recognize and express these emotions in a safe, affirming atmosphere, they are much less likely to be re-stored as a tension in the body. At the very least, do not be afraid to sigh with relaxation or hum with pleasure.

Because touch and sexuality are often equated in our culture, you may become aroused during a session. However, sexual behavior during the massage is inappropriate and will result in termination of the session.

Make a commitment to the self-awareness you experience after a session. This state of being is an indication of what you could be and, in a very real sense, who you already are.

It is our hope that therapeutic massage will help you to begin or continue a lifelong journey of health, vitality, ease and joy.