Boulder Massage Therapy

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are your professional qualifications?
I graduated from the Professional Training Program at Potomac Massage Training Institute in Washington, DC, with specialization in Swedish and deep tissue massage. I am nationally certified by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork and a current member of the Association of Bodywork and Massage Professionals. I have advanced certification training in pre- and post-natal massage, traditional Thai massage, and infant massage instruction.

Do you have an office?
I have a studio in downtown Boulder on the corner of 7th and Walnut. I also do sessions for guests at local hotels and B&Bs, as well as in private homes.

When are you available?
I work in my studio on Thursdays and Saturdays. Other times are available by special appointment. I am available to teach infant massage classes and for labor assistance every day of the week.

What kinds of massage do you do?
Most of my clients come to see me for Swedish, deep tissue, and prenatal massage. I also do traditional Thai massage, sports massage, hot stone massage, and reflexology

How much does your massage cost?
$60 for everything except hot stones, which is $75 per hour

Do you offer a student discount?
Absolutely! With a valid student ID, massages are $40/hour.

How long does a massage usually last?
Anywhere from ½ to 1½ hours.

Do I have to take off all of my clothes?
Massage therapists can be most effective when clients are fully undressed, especially for clients with lower back pain, but it is entirely up to the client to decide how much of his or her clothes to remove. The client’s comfort is always the primary concern. I work with my clients fully draped, so that only the part of the body where I am working at that moment is uncovered. If you prefer to receive massage fully clothed, chair massage or traditional Thai massage may be good alternatives

What should I wear when I come in for a massage?
If you’re coming for a traditional Thai massage, you should wear loose, comfortable shorts or pants and a comfortable shirt. Sweatpants and a T-shirt would be fine. If you’re coming for any other type of massage, you can wear anything you’d like, but keep in mind there may be some oil residue left on your skin when you get dressed after the session.

Can I bring in my own music?
Yes – I’m always open to new music, and whatever helps you relax is fine with me.

I don't like deep tissue work. Can I tell the therapist to use less pressure?
Absolutely. You are in control of the session and should feel free to direct the therapist to use more or less pressure, as desired.

Ideally, how often should I get a massage?
In a perfect world, we would all get massages at least once a week. But, let’s face it – that’s just not feasible for most people. Monthly massages are a great addition to a general wellness program, but they’re good for you whenever you can get them.

If there are specific areas that I don't like to receive massage, should I tell the therapist?
In a perfect world, we would all get massages at least once a week. But, let’s face it – that’s just not feasible for most people. Monthly massages are a great addition to a general wellness program, but they’re good for you whenever you can get them.

Is it ok to get a massage when I am sick with a cold or the flu?
Generally not. One of the benefits of massage is that it greatly increases circulation, but that can also mean circulation of toxins that are already in your body if you’re sick, so you can actually get temporarily sicker. It’s usually preferable to wait until you’re feeling better.

I pulled a muscle yesterday. Should I get a massage?
It’s not a good idea to receive massage in the very early stages of sprains and strains when there’s still a good deal of swelling, heat, and tenderness. After a few days, though, massage can aid in the recovery process.

What is the difference between Swedish and Deep Tissue Massage?
Swedish massage is generally lighter and more superficial. It is made up of four primary strokes: effleurage (long, gliding strokes), petrissage (kneading), vibration (fine shaking or jostling), and tapotement (percussion). Deep tissue massage is usually specific, deeper work that focuses on more specific areas in the body. I usually use a combination of the two.

What is Traditional Thai Massage?
Traditional Thai massage is an ancient form of bodywork that involves a combination of stretching, yoga, acupressure, and range-of-motion exercises. It is done fully clothed (loose, comfortable clothing is best) on a mat on the floor. The therapist uses her own body weight to help the client perform stretches to increase flexibility, as well as a variety of acupressure-like techniques to stimulate circulation and energy flow through the body. Thai massages in Thailand are traditionally two to three hours in length, but we recommend an hour and a half for a full body session.

Is it a good idea to get a massage following a workout?
Yes – massage can greatly decrease the soreness that comes after a workout by helping to flush lactic acid and other toxins out of the body.

I'm pregnant. Can I receive massage?
Yes! Massage can alleviate many of the common discomforts associated with pregnancy. The therapist will work with you to make you comfortable on the table by using a side-lying position with your body supported by pillows. However, it is always very important to let your therapist know if you are pregnant or think you might be, as certain areas must be avoided, especially during the first trimester.

What sorts of techniques do you specifically use with pregnant women?
Working with pregnant women requires specialized knowledge the changes a woman’s body goes through during pregnancy. We usually have women in their 16th week or later propped on their sides for comfort; this is usually a more comfortable position for the first few months post-partum, as well. We use reflexology techniques on the feet to address problems of the digestive and reproductive systems, and we integrate these with more common Swedish and deep tissue strokes to address common lower and upper back pain and soreness. We also teach postural realignment techniques to help prevent and counteract swayback and hunched shoulders that often occur later in pregnancy.

What are some of the benefits of pregnancy massage?
Women experience a wide range of physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual changes during pregnancy. Prenatal massage addresses all of these: it increases circulation and reduces swelling, reduces mood swings, relieves muscle spasms and cramps, prepares women to relax during first stage labor, improves labor outcomes, and creates a nurturing environment to enable pregnant women to pass feelings of emotional and physical well-being on to her child.

What are some of the benefits of receiving massage after I have a baby?
Massage after having a baby can be just as important as getting massage when you’re pregnant. It encourages restoration of your pre-pregnancy body; alleviates muscle strain caused by labor and delivery; rehabilitates the muscles, skin, and connective tissue of the abdomen; promotes structural realignment of the pelvis; encourages healing following a caesarean section; relieves abdominal pain and bloating; addresses the physical stresses of caring for a newborn; and provides education, support, and nurturance for new mothers. Post-partum massage is great for new Moms - Dads and partners too!

How soon can I get a massage after I have a baby?
As long as there were no complications, women can receive massage as soon as 24 hours after giving birth. Massage can help dramatically in weathering the transition into motherhood, particularly in the realm of post-partum depression.

How soon can I massage my baby after giving birth?
Right away! Babies and parents both benefit from touch as soon as they are born. In fact, having your baby lie naked on your stomach or chest for the first hour after birth is one of the most important things you can do to begin the mother/baby bonding process. That first hour is an ideal time to begin massaging your baby.

What is the best time to massage my baby? How old should he/she be?
Right away! Babies and parents both benefit from touch as soon as they are born. In fact, having your baby lie naked on your stomach or chest for the first hour after birth is one of the most important things you can do to begin the mother/baby bonding process. That first hour is an ideal time to begin massaging your baby.

I have special health concerns – previous injuries, surgeries, heart disease, diabetes, cancer, etc. – is this something I need to discuss with my massage therapist??
Yes, definitely. It is extremely important to let your therapist know about your health history. Certain conditions are contraindications for massage. It is sometimes a good idea for your therapist to discuss potential treatment options with your physician (with your permission, of course).

Contact me for a massage!

Boulder Massage Therapy - Caroline Willingham-Higgins
303.746.3581
carolinewillingham@yahoo.com