2. What should I expect during a session?
At Golden Thread you have the option of customizing your own session. If you know what you like, please tell me and I will do my best to provide the type of massage that you would like to receive. Suggestions such as, "I like deep tissue", or I like a softer touch" can be helpful to assure that you are getting your choice in therapy.
If you don’t have a preference, I will be glad to introduce you to my personal style, which often combines deep tissue, soft touch, stretching, body movement , and other techniques.
When you arrive, if it is your first time here, I will take a short medical history,as per Texas Board of Massage rules. Please mention any complaints, prior accidents, surgeries, etc., as it will help guide your course of treatment. After the history I will then examine you physically, and make suggestions. Then,according to what type of treatment you are seeking, I will leave the room and allow you to prepare for the session.
I do not require you to disrobe, in fact I most often work with clients who are fully clothed. Please note that I do not use oils or lotions, as much of my work depends on a certain amount of friction.
If you are seeking bodywork it can help to wear some shorts and a t-shirt as I will be looking at you in several different positions. If you disrobe you will be draped with a sheet, again as per Texas Board rules.
Then, I will begin the session. At any time, if you feel discomfort, or would like more or less of something, please let me know.If you have chosen a relaxation type of massage, I will focus on relaxing you, and spend the rest of the session towards that goal. If you have chosen bodywork, I will try to find causes for your discomfort, and the session is more geared to planning a course of treatment.
I tend to use a "treat what you see" approach ; in other words, each time you arrive for a session I will reassess you and treat what I see that day, along with your complaints. I believe that this attitude is helpful to avoid a "cookie cutter" approach to your healing. We are all unique!
See here for the techniques I use: