For Appointments: 206.729.6211   



What can massage do for you?
Massage and bodywork are among the most natural means of restoring and maintaining a person's health and well-being. An integral part of health care in many cultures dating back to antiquity, the advantages of receiving bodywork are numerous and well-documented.

Massage therapy has been shown to be extremely beneficial for a variety of health conditions, the most prevalent being stress-related tension. This single factor, experts believe, is a causal factor in 80%-90% of all disease in modern society. Massage has been proven an effective complementary therapy in treating cancer-related fatigue, sleep disorders, high blood pressure, low back pain, immunity suppression, spinal cord injury, post-operative surgery, age-related disorders, infertility, eating disorders, smoking cessation, and depression. Bodywork offers a drug-free, non-invasive and humanistic approach based on and in support of the body's own natural ability to heal itself.



How does the body respond to massage?
Massage has many physiological effects, such as:
  • Increasing circulation, allowing the body to pump more oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs.
  • Stimulating the lymph system, the body's natural defense, against toxic invaders. For example, in breast cancer patients, massage has been shown to increase the cells that fight cancer.
  • Relaxing and softening injured and overused muscles.
  • Reducing spasms and cramping.
  • Increasing joint flexibility.
  • Reducing recovery time for strenuous workouts and eliminating subsequent pains of the athlete at any level.
  • Releasing endorphins, the body's natural painkiller. For this reason, massage is being incorporated into treatment for chronic illness, injury and recovery from surgery to control and relieve pain.
  • Reducing post-surgery adhesions and edema and reducing and realigning scar tissue after healing has occurred.
  • Improving range of motion and decreasing discomfort for patients with low back pain.
(From the ABMP website, http://www.massagetherapy.com/learnmore/benefits.php)

Psychological benefits
  • promotes the reduction of tension, anxiety and fatigue
  • stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, your "relaxation" hormones
  • fosters a sense of relaxation and renewed energy
  • promotes body awareness


How do you prepare for a massage?
Avoid heavy meals before your appointment. Drink plenty of water before and after your appointment to stay well hydrated and facilitate your body's release and flushing of toxins. As with any form of bodywork, it is important to observe good personal hygiene.




Is it necessary to undress completely?
Massage, with some exceptions, is traditionally received disrobed. This is to facilitate the therapist's ability to reach and work targeted muscles. The client is comfortably and conservatively draped, exposing only the area being worked. If you prefer not to be completely undressed, you are encouraged to disrobe to your level of comfort.

Zero Balancing is received fully clothed.



What happens during a massage session?
During your first massage:
  • Plan to arrive about 15 minutes before your appointment so that you have ample time to fill out intake paperwork and discuss your needs with the therapist.
  • After completing the initial questionnaire the therapist will review your intake form and discuss with you your reasons for seeking massage.  You'll be asked about areas where you may experience pain, your current physical condition, medical history, lifestyle, etc.  Massage is a collaborative process: during your session, the therapist will check in with you to gauge your comfort and response to the work.  And at any time, if something in your session makes you uncomfortable, let the therapist know so the appropriate changes can be made. 
Post-treatment guidelines
  • Take your time!  Rest for a moment on the table before you get up. When you are ready, get up gently, as it is natural to experience slight dizziness.  Try not to schedule other appointments immediately following your massage so you won't feel hurried; your body will continue to integrate the work for some time after the session is over.
  • Drink plenty of water! The body naturally releases toxins during massage which can then be flushed from the system.  Removal of those toxins will help to minimize any stiffness or soreness related to the massage.  Pure water is recommended, rather than juice, soda, or sports drinks.
  • Avoid alcohol and caffeine for the rest of the day.
  • Some post-massage soreness is not uncommon; however, if you do experience any lingering tenderness, it shouldn't last for more than 24 hours.  If you experience soreness for longer than 24 hours please contact your therapist or advise her at your next appointment.


How often should you receive massage?
The number and frequency of your visits depends on your goals and expectations for the work. Injury recovery is typically more successful with an intensive approach: frequent, regularly-spaced appointments over a shorter period of time. In contrast, relaxation and stress reduction are more successfully achieved and maintained by spacing less frequent visits over a longer timeframe. See your bodyworker to find the treatment plan that is right for you.
© 2005-07 Kate Chase Ryan, LMP | Appointments: 206.729.6211
Cell: 206.388.9870 | PO Box 30041 Seattle, WA 98113 | Site designed bysSoleil Studios