~ Frequently Asked Questions ~
For questions about prenatal massage please see the Pregnancy Page!
What are the benefits of massage?
~ Reduce stress & promote relaxation through emotional support and physical nurturing.
~ Alleviate pain.
~ Reduce edema & high blood pressure, relieve varicose veins, & increase blood circulation.
~ Enhance immunity by stimulating the lymph system.
~ Improve flexibility & range of motion.
~ Reduce depression, anxiety & fatigue.
~ Enhance sleep quality.
~ Reduce spasms & cramping.
~ Facilitates recovery/healing from painful conditions, Cesarean birth or other surgery.
~ Relieve headache pain, carpal tunnel, low back pain, neck or shoulder tension.
Why should I receive massage on a regular basis?
Even a single visit once a month can have a profound impact on your overall health and well-being. The benefits of massage are cumulative therefore receiving massage regularly can not only help in the moment, but can often assist reducing long-term problems such as frequent headaches, chronic pain and stress-related illnesses. Also, after a period of regular visits it is often noticeable that the body responds more easily to massage so more can be accomplished in the same amount of time.
What should I expect during my first visit?
The easiest answer to this question can be found in my Welcome Letter which can be downloaded HERE.
How often should I receive massage?
This depends greatly upon your needs and objectives. If you are seeking stress relief once every 2-6 weeks can work perfectly fine. If you are suffering from chronic pain, you should consider coming in at least once every 1-2 weeks for a month or two to see if we can change your pain level. If we are able to get it "under control" then maintenance visits every 2-4 weeks are recommended to keep things in check. If you have recently been in a motor vehicle accident and require medical massage services, most physicians prescribe one or two visits per week for the first month or two. There is no one answer that applies to everyone so the ultimate answer depends on your particular needs and goals.
What kind of draping do you use?
In accordance with Washington state regulations, modest draping is used at all times. What is "modest draping", you say? Your pelvic and breast areas will always be covered. Unless there is a request/need for abdominal massage, the front of your abdomen will always be covered. It is helpful to uncover the sides of the hips to work on the hip & gluteal muscles.
You are welcome to remove all of your garments for your massage and in many instances this will enable me to do many of the wonderful long movements of Lomi Lomi massage without having to “jump” over clothing. That said, please undress only to your particular level of comfort and we can work with whatever that may be! You will always be appropriately covered and if ever you have the slightest concern about it just speak up and we will fix it right away to make you more comfortable. If you have concerns or questions please feel free to ask before, during or even after your session. There is never a stupid question when it comes to your comfort.
Can I listen to my own music?
Music can be a powerful experience for all of us. If you happen to have an IPhone or IPod with music you would like to listen to, you are welcome to bring it and we can set it up with my speakers. Newer devices should be well-charged beforehand as my speakers are older and cannot power the device. If you’re bringing your own music though, please make sure you know what you want and have it set up in a playlist or know the single artist you’d like to hear so that I will not have to fuss with it during your session; I can assure you that you will not want massage oil all over your expensive technology!
Do I have to talk during my session?
Some people like to chat during their massage and some remain silent. I will follow your lead but recommend that you spend at least part of your session enjoying the opportunity to simply soak in the experience in silence. If you do remain silent there may be times when I speak up to check in with you or make an inquiry to better inform my work. Also, some of the stretching may require your input (either verbally or via wiggling fingers.)
Kristen Rayner, LMT (#10393 in MA), LMP (#60088318 in WA)
(781) 707-6012
Professional Member of AMTA
Certified in Pre- & Perinatal Massage
Keywords: Seattle, Burien, West Seattle, Renton, Massage, Message, Medical Massage, Pregnancy Massage, Prenatal Massage