What to Expect

Your First Massage Session...

Here at Hands of Dawn, I want your experience to be relaxing and stress free. If this is your first professional massage, the following guide will help you understand what to expect from your first session.

Our First Meeting

Upon your arrival, we will introduce ourselves and I will have you fill out a brief intake and evaluation form, if you have not already done so. This evaluation will inquire about the reason(s) you are wanting massage, your current physical condition, any specific areas in which you are experiencing pain, and any particular areas you would like me to address during your massage. This will help me understand your particular needs, and identify any issues I need to know about before we begin your massage.

Beginning your Session

Once we're ready to begin, I will step out of the room and wait while you disrobe to your level of comfort. This will vary for different clients. Some prefer to completely disrobe, while others will chose to remain partially clothed. Either option is fine. Once you are disrobed, you will lie down on the table, under the top sheet. The table will be dressed with clean sheets and a padded warming blanket. After a few moments I will knock on the door and ask if you are ready before I enter the room.

While you are on the table, and throughout the massage, you will remain draped with the top sheet to protect your privacy. An extra blanket will also be available at your request. I will then uncover only the part of the body I will be massaging, to protect your modesty at all times. When moving from one part of the body to another, the covering will be adjusted accordingly.

Sounds and Distractions

During your massage, your comfort and relaxation is my focus. Relaxing music will be available to help set a calming ambiance, unless you request otherwise. The room will be as quiet and free from distractions as possible. During a massage, some clients like to talk and converse. Others prefer to relax without any conversation. Either is fine, and completely normal. I will respect your choice.

During the Massage

Before we start, I will ask you to let me know immediately if, at any time during your massage, a technique or pressure I am using causes you any discomfort or pain. I will be using professional quality, hypoallergenic massage lotions during your massage. Depending on your request, I will perform either a customized full body massage or focus on a specific part of the body.

During your massage, if I need to move a part of your body such as lifting your arm or leg, you should let me do all the work. You do not need to try and assist me. You should relax completely, and let me do it all.

You are the client, and I am there to meet your therapeutic needs. As such, if you have any feedback on pressure, temperature, music, etc, please let me know right away. I will do my absolute best to make the experience as relaxing and soothing as possible.

After the Massage

Once your massage is complete, I will leave the room while you dress. I will wait outside until you are ready. I will then speak with you about your experience, and ask for any feed back you may have to share. Your feedback is always appreciated, as it helps me to customize the experience for your needs in the future.

Upon completion of a massage, it is normal to feel a bit flushed. This is common, and passes shortly. During a massage toxins are being flushed from your muscles, and it is important that you hydrate afterwards. Complimentary bottles of water are provided. Water helps to flush out your muscles, and helps to reduce any potential soreness. By the next day you should be feeling the full therapeutic effects of your session.

Payment and Gratuity

Payment for services may be made prior to the massage, or after. If paying by cash, please try to have correct change, as I carry no more than 50.00 for change. If paying by check, please make checks payable to Hands of Dawn. Visa, Master Card, American Express, and Discover are also accepted.

Tips are not included in the cost of your session. Although tips are neither required, nor expected, they are appreciated. If you are satisfied with my services and decide to leave a gratuity, the most common amount averages about 15%.