Frequently Asked Questions at Rural Massage
"For my first visit Julie patiently explained the massage, listened carefully to my questions and put me fully at ease!"
Each of my clients is unique - it's important I build a rapport with you and I can only do this in person! While I’ve answered some common questions below, not everything can be addressed in advance. For this reason, I highly encourage you to book a 1 hour massage. This gives us a chance to meet, see if we are comfortable with one another, discuss your individual needs, and tailor the massage experience specifically for you.
What is meant by 'Premium'?
'Premium' as in the location is a destination in its own right. A classic Kiwi homestead that's private, rural, easy to find, easy to park in and the opposite to high-street alternatives. There's no receptionist to negotiate; it's always your masseuse Julie who greets you with a smile. The massage room is in a warm and cosy new-build cottage with exposed macroparpa beams, a modern clean bathroom and is set in a private well-maintained garden with access to clean spa pools. Clients often comment on the beauty of the property.
Also 'premium' as in the service - flexible, tailored to you, your specific needs, with time taken to listen and make you feel welcome. Many regular clients enjoy a good chat too, a catch-up, and you are assured of that here. Add complimentary bottled water and a savoury or sweat treat and you'll leave feeling pampered and looking forward to next time!
What is a 'Full Body' massage?
A 'full-body' massage is an often referred to term, by massage therapists world-wide. Rather than just a specific 'head and shoulder' massage, for example, a full body massage typically includes the head (crown, temples and forehead), neck, shoulders, back, hips, glutes, legs and feet. If you wish to exclude any part of the body, or to spend more time on certain areas, the best time to discuss this is, in-person, during the short consultation chat before the massage itself.
What can I expect with a Relaxation Massage?
Expect to be pampered. A relaxing, or relaxation massage, is a gentle treatment that promotes increased circulation, relieves muscle tension and diminishing stress. The room will be warm, the ambience will be soothing, and natural lighting or soft lighting and ambient music will help you to relax and enjoy some well-deserved TLC. Expect long, flowing, gentle strokes with soft hands and forearms. There will be no 'search and destroy' targeting of deep knots, no kneading or aggressive thumb work, or limb manipulation.
My massages are not formulaic repeating x number of strokes on each part of your body and following the same pattern regardless. I read your body's response plus listen to your feedback to create dynamic massages that focus on the areas you most enjoy. This is how we build up a rapport over time so that your massage is tailored to meet your needs.
What happens during the consultation?
This is a perfect time to chat about the massage to follow so that communication is clear for both parties. It is a respectful and informal conversation. You will be asked to share any medical information that may be helpful (for example, recent surgery, injury or arthritis) so that this can be considered to make your massage time more enjoyable. You may wish to discuss any areas of your body that you do not wish to be massaged (for example, some clients may not wish their crown/head to be touched). If you have any queries at all, this is the time to ask.
What massage oils are used?
By default I use unscented coconut oil. If you have a nut allergy, a medical-grade unscented water-based massage gel is available.
I have a medical issue is this a problem?
It depends if the issue compromises you or me during massage. I reserve the right to refuse a massage, or severely limit the scope of a massage, if you have any of the following: Eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, athlete's foot, unexplained rashes, cuts, unhealed wounds, abrasions, burns (including severe sunburn), blisters, boils, extensive warts or areas with active swelling. Additionally you should not book a massage without clearance from your doctor if you have kidney and/or liver conditions and uncontrolled hypertension.
You should not use the infrared sauna if you have unstable angina pectoris, have recently had myocardial infarction (a heart attack), or you have severe aortic stenosis. If you have high or low blood pressure you should consult your doctor and exercise caution, as intense heat can cause dangerous fluctuations. It goes without saying that any sign of a communicable disease such as a cold should stop your booking.
Will I need to fully undress for the massage?
Your comfort is the most important thing. You are welcome to undress to the level you feel comfortable with. Some clients choose to wear underwear, while others prefer to fully undress to allow for a more unrestricted massage experience. Either option is absolutely fine. The choice is entirely yours.
Do you use towels for privacy?
Yes, towels are used by default for warmth, draping, and privacy so only the area being worked on will be uncovered. Your comfort is always the priority. Some clients prefer not to use towels, as they find it more liberating. This is entirely a personal choice and will always be respected.
What do you mean by 'clothing optional' sauna & spa?
'Clothing optional' means that you can choose to wear swimming attire or not in the spa, or use a privacy towel in the sauna or not. The spa pools are outdoors, have all-year-round wind, rain and UV protection, are privately located on the property and a have an additional moveable privacy screen. The entire back garden between the cottage and deck is completely private. It's been set up this way for my other business The Rural Naturist B&B Retreat. This means that you can disrobe, enter and exit the spa pool in privacy, and just relax. The spa pool area is a short few metres away from the massage room and you may wear a towel or spa robe provided. You will be asked to shower before the spa and facilities are provided for this. The indoor infrared sauna is in the massage room.
What is it meant by 'up to 1, 2 or 3 hours'?
When you make a booking you can choose which option best suits you. If you wish to have a shorter booking time (eg: 45 minutes) you'll still be charged for the 1 hour booking - same for the other options. The same applies for the massage and spa packages plus the Time Out option. Your pre-agreed booking is the time I set aside for you (and therefore I can't take other bookings) even if you cut it slightly short on the day the booking price is charged. Unfortunately there's not enough time to have both a massage and/or sauna/spa time within a one hour booking space. So, if time in the spa or sauna is something you look forward to, the 1.5 or 2 hour package option is for you.
Why don't you have Google reviews?
Firstly, the address is private to avoid walk-ins and Google requires an address for businesses where clients visit. Secondly, and more importantly, as I go into my 5th year running Rural Massage I have built up a wonderful client base who value privacy and knowing they've discovered something special. It's a unique space that will very much reward you, as a unique client, if you take a chance to discover it for yourself, rather than try to experience it through the lens of others. Ultimately my entire service is personalised for each client as I get to know them which can't be reflected in reviews or star ratings.
Do you provide a mobile massage service?
No, sorry this service is not offered.
What happens if I need to cancel?
You are welcome to cancel your appointment without penalty, provided this is done within a reasonable time frame. Cancellations made the day prior are considered reasonable, as they allow me the opportunity to offer the time to someone else.
However, same-day cancellations are more difficult to accommodate. I completely understand that unexpected things arise, however following a same-day cancellation, I may require a non-refundable pre-payment for your next booking.
I also reserve the right to decline future bookings at my discretion.
Thank you for your understanding and consideration.
Best approach is to clear your calendar, pick a date/time you can commit to ... and book.
These are the most frequently asked questions at Rural Massage - if you have others we can cover them during your first visit and consultation.