FAQ

We are true believers in the power of massage, regardless of whether you choose True Bleu Healing Arts or another licensed massage therapist here in Richmond! 

Below are the most frequently asked questions about massage and bodywork: 

Can you feel where my tightness is? / Is that a knot?
We are intuitive in our approach and have been practicing using our arms, elbows, feet, hands, & forearms for a long time. After a while of doing massage you become very in tune with where people generally hold tightness. Trigger points (the "knots" you refer to) are mapped out throughout the body. It is common that people have trigger points in the same places. Knowing the trigger point pain patterns allow the therapist to know the exact place that your pain is coming from. We encourage you to research pain patterns to be more effective with self-massage.

Do I have to get all the way undressed?
Undressing for a massage session allows the therapist to use topical cream, oil, or lotion to create less friction on the skin, allow smoother transitions, and get full efficiency out of the session. Generally, we encourage our clients to be in their underwear. Please undress to your comfort level. Draping the body is required by law. The only thing that will be exposed will be the arms, legs, and back! I have had people undress all the way and people that leave all of their clothes on. It is all up to you! We are professionals at what we do. You are in good hands.

How often should I get Massage? 
Frequency of massage will vary from person to person. For people that are not experiencing any particular pain, we recommend getting massage every 3-4 weeks. For specific ailments massage is recommended more frequently at first (once a week for 3-6 weeks) this allows the muscles to memorize that being in a relaxed state is how they're supposed to be. Over a period of sessions we will reevaluate and recommend a maintenance schedule that fits your needs. Always listen to your body. If you are sore, stressed, or in pain... you probably should get massage!

What is the difference between Massage (Swedish/Deep Tissue) & Thai Massage?
Thai massage focuses on balancing energy pathways and opening up space in the body through compression, acupressure and stretching. Thai Massage in the west is known as "Yoga done to you". Tha Massage is much different from other massage modalities. In Swedish, Deep Tissue and other "western" massage modalities our focus is to target areas in the body that are are ailing you on a very physical level. Thai Massage is an ancient practice that works on all layers of the body, physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. Wether or not you choose Thai or Therapeutic Massage at True Bleu, we will incorporate physical therapy techniques and help curate a unique approach for your needs. 

Does Massage Hurt?
Every person has different sensitivities. During a massage session you may be surprised by areas that are sensitive to the touch. To maximize benefit of each session, open communication between the client and therapist plays a pivotal role. Generally, we work to the "edge" of your comfort level, but it isn't necessary to "dig in" all the time. Working to this edge ensures that you remain in normal breathing patterns and your muscles stay relaxed while being treated. Your therapist will be checking in with you to make sure the right level of pressure is being applied. Please tell your therapist if you are uncomfortable at any time and adjustments will be made!

What is your Cancellation Policy?
A $65 fee is applied to any person who does not give us 48 hours notice to reschedule an appointment. If you no show for a session the day of your appointment you are charged the full service fee. If you choose to reschedule last minute frequently you will be charged the full service fee. Our cancellation policy is to ensure that our therapists are paid and their time is respected. Please give us as much notice as possible if you are sick, need to cancel, or reschedule sessions. We appreciate your consideration.   

Note
Massage should not ever be considered a substitute for medical examination, diagnosis, or treatment. Please see a qualified medical specialist for any mental or physical ailment you experience. Massage practitioners/bodyworkers are not qualified to perform spinal or skeletal adjustments, diagnose or treat physical and mental illness, or prescribe any medications; nothing said during the session(s) should be interpreted as such.

If you have questions, please feel free to call us at 804-402-4643. We are happy to help you in any way we can.