Massage FAQs
Effects of massage
Will massage help me relax?
Yes, most definitely. The massage I offer is focused on relaxation. If you want to come for a massage in Whitchurch to nurture yourself, or if you are feeling stressed or anxious, relaxation massage is excellent for this, as one of its main aims is to relax the nervous system. I do this by using slow, gentle, consistent pressure that gradually deepens and through using holds to give your body time and space to relax.
Is relaxation massage painful?
You may feel sore spots and tightness, but you shouldn’t feel acute pain. If you do, tell me and I will stop and move on to something else. I do give deep pressure, but I work up to it slowly, making sure the tissues are warmed up and you are in a relaxed state. A good marker is that if you are feeling discomfort that for you is more than 7 out of 10, we stop. Also, if you find yourself starting to tense, we stop. You don’t have to ‘put up’ with anything, you don’t need to not say stop for fear of offending me. This is your session, your body and if it doesn’t feel right, let me know.
I have a particular ache, will relaxation massage help?
The massage I offer can help to soothe muscle and joint aches. Several clients have regular sessions of massage to help ease back, neck, shoulder and hip pains. If you have a particular issue, I can focus the session on helping to ease that.
Will my issue be cured straight away?
It totally depends on what it is. Some aches are resolved after one session, some after 2 or 3, others after weeks or months, and some never go away but become more manageable. I won’t be able to give you a proper assessment until I have gone through a consultation and given you your first session. Even then, it is an ongoing process, because everyone responds to massage differently and it depends on what you do with your body on a daily basis and, how often you practise the aftercare I give you.
The best approach is to come with an open mind and be curious to discover what’s there. Relaxation massage can’t solve complex medical issues, but it does help the nervous system relax and help you to feel more at ease with whatever is going on in your body.
Will I feel odd afterwards?
Everyone feels different. Some clients feel lightheaded and drowsy, some feel energised and awake, some feel no different but then need to lie down a couple of hours later, and others feel nothing at all. However you feel, it is okay. I would advise that you don’t arrange to do anything immediately afterwards if possible, give yourself an hour or two to rest and absorb the benefit of the session, and avoid alcohol and caffeine for 12 hours if you can.
Because relaxation massage works on the nervous system, which takes time to unwind, you may feel the effects for hours and even days afterwards. If you are at all concerned about how you feel after a session, get in touch with me.
Why do I feel better after a massage?
There are many benefits to massage. Some are scientifically provable, such as improved immune function and lower blood pressure. Others are more subjective, such as an increased sense of wellbeing.
Personal concerns
Can I say if it hurts?
Absolutely yes. If something doesn’t feel right, speak up straight away and let me know. I can tell a certain amount from how your body responds to the massage, but I don’t always know if something is painful for you, so do offer feedback throughout the session.
What if I fall asleep during the massage?
This is no problem and is a good sign. It shows that your body is going into the rest and repair state and is releasing tensions. Other things that are not a problem: stomach gurgles, hairy legs, passing wind. It’s all part of the nature of the body and is totally fine.
Do I keep my clothes on?
I work with oil on skin and so most of my clients remove clothing. If I am working on your back, you only need to remove the layers on your upper body. If I’m working on your legs and you have shorts or a loose skirt on, you may not need to remove them. Some people find it more comfortable to only wear their knickers, whatever part of the body is being worked on. It’s up to you and what you find comfortable.
And, if you don’t want to remove any clothing, I can still offer you a session. I can work on head, face and hands, and I can do stretches and mobilisations that don’t use oil.
Will my skin and hair get oily?
I use a small amount of oil, so it usually soaks in to your skin during the session. If it doesn’t, please use the towel I provide to wipe it off. I usually work on the head and neck first so that oil doesn’t get into your hair, however the hair near the nape of the neck may get some in it. If you don’t want this to happen, let me know.
I don’t want my feet (or head) touched, can I still have a massage?
Yes. If there is a part of your body that you don’t feel comfortable with being touched, let me know and I won’t work on that part.
Will the massage oil set off my allergies?
I use plain apricot kernel (seed) oil, so no nut products and no essential oils. If you have an allergy to apricot kernel, let me know. I offer scented oils as an optional extra.
Do you have disabled access?
Yes, my treatment room is on the ground floor and the front door is at street level.
I have a medical condition or disability, can I still get a massage?
In most cases, yes, though some conditions rule out massage. If you are in any doubt, check with your doctor then give me a call.
Practice information
What type of massage do you offer?
Deep tissue relaxation massage. I can work with you if you have a particular ache or pain and help if you feel stressed and want to relax. My diploma is in Holistic Massage and I have completed various CPD courses to build up my skills.
What are your qualifications?
Level 4 Holistic Diploma 2010 from the Bristol College of Massage and Bodywork. 10-month diploma including 40 practice hours and a theory and practical exam.
Are you regulated by a professional body?
Yes, I am a member of the Massage Training Institute and am bound by its mandatory code of ethics. If you have a complaint about my practice you can contact MTI in confidence.
Are you insured?
Yes, by Balens Specialist Insurance Brokers.
Logistics
Where are you located?
Jenny Hampton Massage, 5 Post Office Court, St Johns Street, Whitchurch, Shropshire, SY13 1QT.
Is there public transport or can I park nearby?
The treatment room is 5-10 minutes’ walk from Whitchurch bus station and 15 minutes’ walk from the train station. It is a few hundred metres from a car park that is 40p per hour and there is some free on street parking in the area.
How do I book?
Book online, by email or by phone or text.
Where and how do I pay?
Through the online booking system, or I can take a card payment after your phone consultation. If you don’t have a bank or credit card, I take cash on the day.
Do you offer discounts?
No, but I do send discount vouchers to regular clients. Anyone who recommends a friend receives £5 off, and clients receive vouchers on their birthday and at Christmas. I also run special offers for regular client throughout the year.
Do you offer gift vouchers?
Yes, you can book and pay for a gift voucher online, and/or contact me and I can send you a high quality card in a luxurious gold envelope for your loved one’s special day .
When are you open?
Tuesday 3.00-6.30pm, Wednesday and Friday 10am-6:30pm and Saturday 10am-1pm. Mondays and evenings available on request.
What do I do if I need to cancel or rearrange?
Email, phone or text me at least 24 hours before your appointment, and there is no charge. With less than 24 hours, I charge a 50% cancellation fee and with less than 2 hours notice it’s the full session fee. In exceptional circumstances I will waive this, including if you are ill or have a family emergency.