.ИИ.ЗДЏ`З.ИИ.-> Kati Thompson <-.ИИ.ЗДЏ`З.ИИ. LaStone Therapy and Hot Stone Massage!

1. What is the difference between the "LaStone® Therapy" and "Hot Stone Massage" treatments?

LaStone® Therapy is a sequence of steps involving about 60% massage with heated basalt and cooled marble stones and 40% energy work (including a layout of (gem)stones on the energy centers of the body, connection and clearing of these centers, balancing of the body's energy flow and a cleansing ritual). Hot Stone Massage is basically a fairly deep Swedish massage using mostly heated basalt (and sometimes cooled marble) stones. This treatment does not involve any specific energy work techniques.

2. What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?

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. Massage is also known to promote better sleep, improve concentration, reduce anxiety and create an overall sense of well-being. Massage provides relief to people from all walks of life--the weekend or competitive athlete, home gardener, stressed executive, working mom--anyone can benefit from massage.

3. Where will my massage take place?

Your massage will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. You may choose from a selection of soft music to help you relax if you wish. You will lie on a massage table which is especially designed for your comfort.

4. Must I be completely undressed and will I be covered during the session??

Most of the techniques I use are most effectively performed with the client unclothed; however, you may decide what amount of clothing you prefer to wear for your own comfort. You will be properly draped at all times during the session to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked will be exposed.

No. I will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean drape. The drape will be either a flannel sheet or a large towel, depending on the therapy to be performed.

We will discuss the desired outcome prior to the beginning of the session. This will determine which parts of your body require massage or additional care. A typical full body session will include work on your neck, back, shoulders, arms, legs, feet, head, and hands. You will not be touched on or near your genitals (male or female) or breasts (female).

Oil will be used in your massage--especially if you are receiving LaStone Therapy or Hot Stone Massage. I take special care that my oils are nourishing, cold pressed oils. They are usually a blend, often including: sweet almond oil, grapeseed oil, jojoba oil, avocado oil, and sesame oil. I scent my massage oil with pure essential oils including: lavender, orange, mint, eucalyptus and others. You may also choose unscented oil if you wish.

Sessions generally last 60 or 90 minutes. Half hour appointments only allow time for a partial massage session, such as neck and shoulders, back, or legs and feet.

Make yourself comfortable. I will either move you (such as lifting your arm) or tell you when to move (such as turning onto your other side) as needed during the session. Many people just close their eyes and completely relax. Others like to talk during their session. Feel free to ask any questions about the massage you are receiving or bodywork in general. Also, communicate immediately if you feel any discomfort so I may take another approach. The point of the session is YOUR comfort and healing.

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 relaxed and 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 after your massage. A nice warm bath with lots of epsom salts (a pound or so) is wonderfully cleansing to your tissues also.

If you are in a car accident or have a job-related injury covered by worker's compensation, insurance may cover massage therapies when prescribed by a physician. If your insurance covers chiropractic or osteophatic services, the services of a bodywork professional may be covered when prescribed by a chiropractor or osteopath. The best thing to do is check with your insurance company to see what exactly is covered under what circumstances. I do not bill insurance, but will provide a receipt, treatment plan, and chart notes if you wish to have them.

Please feel free to call me if you have further questions or would like to schedule an appointment.