What to Expect
Typically I will start a treatment session by asking you how you are feeling, is anything hurting or bothering you. Is there an area or place you would like to start. I will also evaluate what I am seeing, how you are standing, sitting, moving or holding yourself. We all have patterns of holding ourselves in space and those patterns can indicate restrictions in your fascial system.
What if I am uncomfortable?
At all times during your treatment session, you are in control. If at any time you would like me to stop treatment, simply say "halt". Always remember, that the bodywork is for you. If at anytime you are uncomfortable, please speak up. I can feel your restrictions and help to relieve them, but I can not feel your pain or discomfort.
As your treatment starts you may notice areas of discomfort or release. Participating in your session by informing me of these sensations can increase the effectiveness of your treatment.
How Long Will the Session Last?
For your first appointment, allow 90 minutes. This will include your evaluation time as well as bodywork session. Future bodywork sessions typically last one hour (which includes a short evaluation time). Many clients prefer a 90 minute session for optimal results. If time is limited, we can schedule a short 30 minute appointment. Please remember that a half-hour appointment only allows time for partial bodywork session. For best results allow relaxation time prior to and after the session.
How Will I Feel After the Bodywork Session?
Everyone is different, and you may have different responses at various times. After a session, 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 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 bodywork, you will need to rehydrate your body. It is recommended that you drink plenty of water afterward. A gallon within the first 24 hours is a good rule of thumb.
What Are the Benefits of Bodywork?
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.
Are There Any Medical Conditions That Would Make Bodywork Inadvisable?
Yes. That is why it is imperative that before you begin your session, I ask general health questions. It is very important that you inform me of any health problems or medications you are taking. If you are under the care of a doctor, it is strongly advised that you receive a written recommendation for myofascial release therapy prior to any session.
Where Will My Bodywork Session Take Place?
Your bodywork session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Music may be played to help you relax. You will lie on a table especially designed for your comfort.
Who Will Perform the Bodywork?
I (Sharon Korn), a Certified Massage Therapist, will perform your bodywork. I have received extensive training in a variety of techniques, and have been specializing in Myofascial Release Therapy as taught by John F. Barnes since 2005.
Must I Be Completely Undressed?
No. I can perform bodywork through your clothing if that is most comfortable for you. Shorts and a sports bra is often chosen as it allows freedom of movement and doesn't restrict the bodywork. Traditionally, massage is performed with the client unclothed; however, you decide what amount of clothing you prefer to wear for your own comfort. At all times, you will be properly draped during each session.
Will the Practitioner Be Present When I Disrobe?
No. I will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet and blanket.
Will I Be Covered During the Session?
Yes. You will be properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed.
What Parts of My Body Will Be Worked On?
Together we will discuss the desired outcome of your session. This will determine which parts of your body require bodywork. Often areas of pain are caused by restrictions elsewhere, I can explain what I see before we begin. For TMJ intra-oral work may be desired, in which case I would use gloves. At all times you are in control and can tell me to stop.
Will Lubricant Be Used?
No. Myofascial release uses the skin as a lever to reach the deeper fascia and muscles. No oil or lubricant is used.
What Will the Bodywork Feel Like?
This is a difficult question to answer, as each bodywork session is different. What bodywork feels like depends on the techniques used and your response to the bodywork. With myofascial release I generally start with a simple rocking movements to determine where your restrictions are and where we should begin. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax and relieve specific areas of muscular tension. Please communicate with me immediately if you feel any discomfort. Bodywork is most effective when your mind and body are not resisting.
Are There Different Kinds of Bodywork?
There are numerous types of bodywork. Various techniques utilize different strokes, including basic rubbing strokes, rocking movement, posture and movement reeducation, application of pressure to specific points, and more. I use the variety of techniques taught by John Barnes as part of the Myofascial release approach.
What Should I Do During the Bodywork Session?
Make yourself comfortable. Feel free to move, make noise or remain silent. Each sesson can be very different, sometimes clients experience an unwinding of previous traumas. This is never dangerous or injurious, simply a re-winding of the stuck event, allowing you and your body to move forward and heal. Feel free to ask me questions about bodywork in general or about the particular technique you are receiving. For optimal results, the more you can allow your mind to be quiet and simply feel what your body is asking for, the greater change will occur.