FAQs & What to Expect | Kneads

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Wear whatever makes you feel comfortable. 

If your treatment includes your back or shoulders, a back-fastening bra can make changing and treatment easier, but this is entirely your choice.

If you feel unwell before your appointment, particularly if you have a fever, infection, sickness or another contagious illness, please contact me as soon as possible to rearrange. 

Massage may not be appropriate while you are acutely unwell, and postponing also helps protect other clients.

I will explain what clothing, if any, needs to be removed and ask you to undress only to the level you feel comfortable with. I will leave the room while you get ready and position yourself beneath the top sheet. 

You will remain appropriately covered throughout the treatment, with only the area being treated uncovered. I will explain what I am doing and check that you feel comfortable.

​I am a professional massage therapist who has worked with all body shapes and sizes. I have a ‘real’ body of my own with my own lumps and bumps so I am alert to any client body confidence issues. I am non-judgmental about your body weight, amount of hair, skin conditions, scars, disabilities, medical conditions, or personal history. Your dignity and modesty will be protected at all times using towels and blankets to comfortably drape your body and protect your modesty.

​It is not necessary to shave prior to a treatment, please don’t feel embarrassed if you have hair on your body, it doesn’t affect me or the treatment in any way.

Before we start, I will discuss any existing injuries or areas of concern for you and plan out what we need to address in terms of your physical discomfort or stress you are experiencing. I can step out of the room to let you get ready. 

At the end of the treatment, I will again step out to let you get dressed. 

A 60-minute appointment usually includes approximately 45–50 minutes of hands-on treatment. The remaining time allows for consultation, assessment, getting ready and discussing any appropriate aftercare.

Not at all. I am experienced in treating clients in a side-lying or seated position. 

This can be particularly helpful if lying face down is uncomfortable because of pregnancy, breast surgery, tenderness, breathing difficulties or another health concern. Please let me know and I will adapt the treatment for you.

Pressure preferences vary considerably. Some people enjoy deeper work, while others prefer lighter, more soothing techniques. You may experience some discomfort when tight or sensitive areas are treated, but the pressure should always remain manageable. 

Please tell me immediately if anything feels painful or uncomfortable—I will be happy to adjust the treatment.

The lotion I use should not damage ordinary clothing, but I recommend avoiding delicate fabrics such as silk. Some techniques may affect your hair or make-up, so please tell me if this is a concern and I can adapt the treatment where possible. 

Treatments such as seated massage or TMJ work may also be performed without lotion.

​You do not need to stay awake and it is very common to drift in and out of sleep during a treatment. It is a good sign that you are deeply relaxed. Your body and muscles will still be gaining benefit from the massage even if you are asleep. I will wake you gently at the end of the treatment so you don’t need to worry if you nod off.

Some people experience temporary muscular soreness, tiredness or heaviness after a massage, particularly following deeper or more targeted treatment. Occasionally, you may develop a mild headache. These effects usually settle within 24–48 hours. Please contact me if your symptoms are severe, unusual or do not improve.

Occasionally, clients may feel emotional during or after a massage. If this happens, I will check that you feel comfortable and ask whether you would like me to continue, pause or stop the treatment.

Some people may also feel slightly cool as they relax. Towels and blankets will be used throughout the treatment to keep you warm and comfortable.

After your treatment, take your time getting up and drink normally according to thirst. If your muscles feel tender or tired, avoid strenuous exercise and allow your body time to settle. 

Keeping warm and taking it easy for the remainder of the day may help you continue to feel relaxed. I will give you any specific aftercare advice relevant to your treatment.

How often you book is entirely individual. If we are addressing a particular problem, I may suggest an appropriate timeframe for a follow-up appointment. 

If you are active and using massage for general maintenance, occasional appointments throughout the year may be suitable. There is no pressure to book more frequently than you need.

Your appointment is your time. You are welcome to chat, relax quietly or drift off to sleep—whatever helps you feel most comfortable. I will usually follow your lead and will not be offended if you prefer not to talk.

I may occasionally ask how the pressure feels or check that you are comfortable. Please let me know at any point if you would like the pressure, position, temperature or treatment adjusted.

Yes. Free parking is available at my Godalming clinic and at both Guildford clinic locations. Full parking and arrival information will be included in your appointment confirmation.

​Yes 

Yes. I am trained and insured to provide specialist pregnancy massage, with each treatment adapted to your stage of pregnancy, comfort and individual circumstances.

You may be supported in a side-lying or seated position using cushions and bolsters. Pressure and techniques will be adjusted to help you feel comfortable and relaxed.

Please tell me about your pregnancy and any symptoms or complications before booking. If you have a high-risk pregnancy, unexplained pain or bleeding, concerns about your health, or have been advised to restrict activity, please speak to your midwife, GP or obstetrician before arranging treatment.

If you are unsure whether pregnancy massage is appropriate for you, please contact me before booking and I will be happy to discuss it.

Still have a question? Please get in touch and I’ll be happy to help. Otherwise, you can book your appointment online when you’re ready.