Questions & Answers
How can I schedule an appointment?
Call us at (704) 240-9996 and we will be happy to find a time that works for you! You can also book online through our website or our scheduling app Vagaro.
Are walk-ins and same day appointments available?
Walk-ins to schedule massage appointments or gift purchases are always welcome during our regular front desk hours.
Same day appointments are sometimes available, and we can also put you on our waitlist. However, our massage therapists tend to be fully booked so we recommend booking in advance.
Will I get a full 60 minutes of massage when I book a 1 hour appointment?
Yes, you receive the full amount of treatment time that you pay for. You are not charged for the intake and interview process, or the time it takes you to dress.
Do you offer couples massage?
Yes we do offer couples massage. When scheduling a couple massage you will need to schedule the same time with two of our therapists.
What if I am late arriving to my appointment?
Please arrive on time for your appointment. Time for your appointment has been specially arranged for you. If you arrive late your session may be shortened in order to accommodate others whose appointments follow yours. We will do our best to provide you with the services you have booked, but we cannot guarantee the full time if you arrive late. Full payment for your scheduled services will be expected.
What should I do if I need to cancel my appointment?
If you need to reschedule your appointment, you can log into your account and make changes anytime. For late notice cancellations, please call us directly at (704) 240-9996 as soon as possible. We do not except cancelations via email.
Cancellations without 24 hour notice may result in a charge for your session, as that time has been set aside specifically for you.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept cash, check, credit card, or gift cards and certificates.
Do you take insurance? What if I have a flexible spending account (FSA)?
Although we do not accept insurance, many plans do cover massage therapy with a doctors prescription and copies of receipts. We can also print out all of your visits at the end of the year upon request.
Should I tip my massage therapist?
Tipping is neither required nor expected, but of course we appreciate the gesture! Our massage therapists do not depend on tips, but if you would like to leave a tip, simply add the gratuity at checkout.
The best appreciation you can show is by referring your friends and family to us and letting them know about the amazing benefits of massage therapy!
Before, During, and After Your Massage
What should I expect during my appointment?
For your first appointment we ask that you arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled time to fill out any new client paperwork. Your therapist will then provide you with a consultation to go over the things that you are having issues with. Throughout the massage your therapist may ask you questions about pressure, and if something doesnt feel right, or remind you to focus on your breathing.
Do I need to shower before my massage?
You don't need to necessarily shower right before your massage, but do we ask that you come to your appointments clean and free of fragranced personal care products.
Should I take off my underwear when I get a massage?
This depends on your comfort level and the type of massage you are going to receive.
For Sports Massage & Stretching, and Reiki & Energy Balancing, you may be asked to leave some or all of you clothing on.
For Swedish Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Hot Stone Massage or Prenatal Massage, many people prefer to be completely nude when they receive a massage, while others prefer to keep their undergarments on. It's completely up to you, and you are encouraged to undress to your level of comfort.
Tight-fitting or bulky undergarments can sometimes get in the way of the massage, especially if your problem areas are the low-back, buttocks, or hips. Women usually remove their bras so no straps are in the way of back and shoulder massage.
Licensed massage therapists must ensure that clients are always properly covered by a sheet or towel, genitals will never be exposed, and only the specific areas being massaged will be uncovered as per the State law requires.
The pressure isn't deep enough, but I don't want to complain. What should I do?
You are encouraged to openly communicate with the massage therapist about your preferences and comfort. If anything needs to be adjusted, or if we are almost (but not quite) getting the right spot, just speak up and let us know right away!
However, it is a myth that massage therapy needs to hurt in order to be effective. Some of the most effective techniques involve very light, gentle touch. Often, too much pressure can cause muscles to tighten further, and detract from the effectiveness of your treatment.
Is it okay to talk to the massage therapist during my massage?
Some people like to chat all through their treatment, and that is fine. But please do not feel you have to talk to fill the silence. We allow the client to lead the conversation, and will engage if we are talked to, however, many people like to just enjoy the massage without conversation and listen to our soothing music to help relaxation. A really good massage takes energy and concentration on the therapists part, so do not feel bad if you do not talk for an hour, we are quite happy focusing on the work we are doing on your muscles.
You will experience the greatest benefits from your session if you just allow yourself to become quiet and relaxed...However, you should definitely communicate with your therapist if you feel any pain or discomfort, if you have any concerns during your massage, or if there is anything your massage therapist can do to make you more comfortable. Some types of massage that work on deep layers of muscle and tissue, such as deep tissue or sports massage, will require more feedback to ensure that the pressure is not uncomfortable.
I woke up with a cold today. Should I come in?
A massage will likely just make you feel worse. If you are sick, you may get your therapist sick and pass it on to other clients that day. Even if you are giving less than a 24 hour notice, we prefer you reschedule your appointment if you are feeling unwell, so let us know as soon as possible.
When is it not okay to get a massage?
It is important for you to fully complete your Health History and keep your therapist up to date on your condition. Not all types of massage are appropriate for all conditions. Please read more about When Isn't Massage Appropriate?
What should I do after I receive a massage?
It's a great idea to give yourself some additional time after your massage to continue relaxing and to allow your body to fully absorb the benefits of massage. We leave plenty of time in between appointments so that you never feel hurried and can take your time before you head out the door.
Is it ok to exercise right after a massage?
Yes, it's ok to exercise after a massage, but most people prefer to stay relaxed.
Should I eat before my massage?
DO NOT eat too much too soon before your massage - Just like swimming, it is best to wait an hour after eating before you have a massage. Massage has a great effect on getting the digestive system working, and to put it simply… it may save you the embarrassment of passing gas during your treatment. But that said, if you accidently let one slip, it is completely natural and normal, so absolutely do not feel embarrassed.
"Touchy" Topics
What if I fall asleep, snore, or drool during my massage?
DO NOT be afraid to nod off - A really good massage does have a very powerful relaxing effect and many of clients do end up dozing off during their treatment, and that is absolutely fine. It is your body letting you have that bit of well earned rest it is probably craving. Don’t worry about missing out of the enjoyment of a massage while in slumber land, the advantage is your muscles will be totally relaxed, allowing your therapist to really work into the muscles for maximum benefit
Can I blow my nose, itch, or get up and go to the bathroom during a session?
Of course! We don’t want you lying there uncomfortable and preoccupied, so feel free to take care of it.
What if I'm self conscious of my body?
DO NOT be body conscious - We are muscle experts, and muscles come in all shapes and sizes, and while giving a treatment we visualise the body on an anatomical level. We are not bothered what the outside looks like, its what’s on the inside that counts, we do not notice or care if you think you have bingo wings, muffin tops or moobs! As the owner of the body you should be thankful, imperfections and all, that it has functioned so well as to bring you to our massage table, and while your there we will do our best to make you feel at ease and comfortable, and once the massage treatment has started, you will forget all about your body worries.
What if I forgot to shave?
No problem! DO NOT worry about body hair - Hairy legs, armpits, chests, backs… we don’t care. Don’t feel embarrassed if you haven’t had time or forgotten to de-hair before your appointment. or you have your winter fuzz on. Even if you do go to the effort of hair removal before an appointment, many people can shave in the morning and have stubble by the afternoon and a massage can cause irritation too soon after shaving. So, we do appreciate the effort, but please do not feel obliged.
DO NOT make an effort - Make up will get smudged, fake tan will stain the linen and towels, hair will get messed up and greasy, jewellery will get in the way, and strong perfume can be overpowering in a small room, and although every client gets a completely fresh set of linen and towels, the smell of perfume does tend to linger in the treatment room after you have gone, which can be off putting for the next client. So, to avoid nose offending anyone, best to leave the scent to just a light bit of deodorant.
Should I tell my therapist if I have a rash or wart?
Yes, please let your massage therapist know right away.
What if I have big breasts that get in the way or make it uncomfortable to lay face down?
If you are uncomfortable laying face down, or in any other position, let your massage therapist know. Bolsters and towels can be used to make you as comfortable as possible.
Is it ok to use tobacco, marijuana, or drink alcohol before my massage?
We ask that you please refrain from using tobacco, recreational drugs, or alcohol at least 4 hours before your appointment. Even some prescription or over the counter medications can contraindicate massage.
What if I’ve experienced a trauma (or abuse) that is still triggered by touch? Should I let my massage therapist know?
Yes, absolutely let your massage therapist know if you do not want to be touched in a specific area or in a certain way. You don’t have to give us any details, and you have the right to ask to take a break or end your massage all together at any time, for any reason.
If I’m attracted to my massage therapist, can I ask him or her out?
Our professional ethical code of conduct that requires us to make sure boundaries are clear, and massage therapist-client relationships must be kept professional, or be terminated if things become personal. Additionally, we have a zero tolerance policy and any sexual advances, innuendo, or inappropriate touching is grounds for immediate termination of your session.
Can I joke about “happy endings” even if I have no interest in receiving one?
No, not even as a joke. This is disrespectful to your massage therapist and our profession. Additionally, we have a zero tolerance policy and any sexual advances, innuendo, or inappropriate touching is grounds for immediate termination of your session.
What if I get aroused or get an erection during my massage?
Arousal is a natural parasympathetic response, so don’t feel guilty. However, understand that it was not your massage therapist’s intention to arouse you. Our professional ethical code of conduct that requires us to make sure boundaries are clear. If there is a distracting technique or motion (i.e. rocking the prone torso) that aroused you, it is okay to tell your therapist to stop that motion. Just to be clear, we do have a zero tolerance policy and any sexual advances, innuendo, or inappropriate touching is grounds for immediate termination of your session.
About Us
Are your massage therapists licensed and insured?
Yes. All of our massage therapists are licensed by the State of North Carolina and carry liability insurance. We are also a members of Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals (ABMP) and American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA).
To be eligible to receive a license for Massage Therapy in the State of North Carolina, massage therapists must complete a minimum of 600 hours (most schools exceed this minimum) in an approved Massage school, pass an NCBTMB standardized exam, and the state online Statutes and Rules Examination. Massage therapists must complete 24 hours of continuing education to renew their North Carolina license every two years.
To become nationally certified, a practitioner must demonstrate mastery of core skills and knowledge, pass the MBLEx, uphold the organization's Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics, and take part in continued education.
What kind of training do your massage therapists receive?
To become nationally certified, a practitioner must demonstrate mastery of core skills and knowledge, pass an NCBTMB standardized exam, uphold the organization's Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics , and take part in continued education.
Our massage therapists receive extensive training at an accredited massage schools with curriculum including Musculoskeletal Anatomy, Physiology, Kinesiology, Pathology, Swedish massage, Deep Tissue massage, Sports massage, Pregnancy massage, Infant massage, Adaptive massage, Myofascial Release, Reflexology, Trigger Point, Business and Professional Ethics, Service Learning, as well as Clinical Experience.
Many massage therapists go on to specialize and earned advanced certifications.
Follow these tips to make your massage appointment a great one, and just remember the massage is about YOU and YOUR comfort.
Thank you for reading and hope to see you on the table soon.