Frequently Asked Questions

Arrive a few minutes early to ensure you will get your full time on the table. Make sure you're staying hydrated before and after your session to maximize the benefits, and if possible, clear your schedule afterwards for some restorative time for your body to integrate the work. Sessions can take a day or two to fully settle in, so avoid any heavy lifting, and allow your body to do what feels best... whether that's resting, or getting out in nature, journaling... something to support your needs. Be aware that old memories and emotions can be stirred up when tissue releases.

What are you under your doctor's care for? If you're not sure about whether bodywork would help, please feel free to reach out with a call, text or email. If you are feeling unwell, please reschedule your session and rest to support your return to health. If you've acquired a new injury in the last 48 hours, please visit your doctor first. Bodywork is never a substitute for medical care, and is not intended to diagnose or cure any disease, however, many conditions can benefit from the integration of CranioSacral therapy as a supplement to treatment. Communication is key, so I am happy to provide notes for your medical provider if needed, or discuss questions with you or your doctor.

While I've learned several massage modalities over the years, my focus has been on CranioSacral therapy, Visceral Manipulation, and Equine bodywork to support a more harmonious relationship between horses and riders.

Comfortable clothing is recommended. You do not need to undress for your session, however, avoid restrictive clothing like jeans, belts and bras. You may elect to be under a sheet and blanket, but it is not required. For Visceral Manipulation appointments, be sure to wear pants or shorts with a flexible waistband so that your entire abdomen is easily accessible.

The answer to this question depends largely on your goals for treatment, your level of commitment to self care, your schedule and your budget. What is your current age and overall health? What is the frequency and severity of your symptoms? Have you had multiple injuries or surgeries in the past? Have you experienced recent physical or emotional trauma? Depending on your answers, you may want to consider booking several sessions in fairly close succession for more immediate results. Each session builds on the one before it, so weekly or bi-weekly appointments may be appropriate to start, tapering down as severity of symptoms subside. Most Visceral Appointments are spaced 2-4 weeks apart. If you are unsure, please ask! I encourage anyone with complex health histories to commit to at least 5-10 sessions in about as many weeks. Consider purchasing a package of 3 or 5 sessions to save on continuity of care.

While my license is in Massage Therapy, I no longer accept new massage clients. I have found my niche, and specialize in CranioSacral therapy for people and horses. I will occasionally use soft tissue mobilization and other manual therapy techniques to soften tense tissue, but I do not use deep pressure. One principle of CranioSacral is that, in order to access the body's deepest tissues, the hands must be gentle and inviting so as not to create resistance. I will always opt for taking time over forcing tissue.

Packages are a great way to save money on continuity of care. If you're struggling financially, I can accept a sliding scale fee.

Cash, check, and credit cards are accepted. I use Square for credit card processing, but also accept Venmo.

Please provide 24 hours notice when canceling your appointment to avoid the $75 late cancellation fee. Your appointment time is being held just for you, and can be very difficult to fill at the last minute.

Tips are always appreciated, but never expected. Please do not feel pressure to include a tip, as I understand that bodywork is not inexpensive. I would much rather you forego tipping and be able to maintain a regular treatment schedule than to tip extra and go longer between appointments. If you really loved your treatment, the greatest compliment you can offer is the referral of your friends and family, or sharing on social media, or reviewing on Google or Yelp!

BCTMB is Board Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, CST-T designates my certification in Upledger CranioSacral Therapy techniques, and EBW refers to an Equinology Equine Bodyworker. I am insured through the ABMP, or Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals.

Please feel free to reach out to me with questions, or go to the Upledger Institute's website for a brief introduction.

Christopher Hays
King 23 Photography
Steffi Lippel