Frequently Asked Questions

This work is our livelihood. When a session is canceled without enough notice, it’s often too late to offer that time to someone else. Thank you for respecting our time and policies!

At your first Hands of Chi session, we take a thoughtful and personalized approach to your care.  Here’s what to expect:

• Brief Intake Form – when you arrive, you’ll fill out a short intake form covering your health history, lifestyle habits, and any areas of concern.  This helps ensure your session is tailored to your unique needs.
• Postural Assessment & Conversation – we’ll discuss your posture, body awareness, daily patterns, and any chornic pain or stress points.  Together, we’ll identify habits that may be contributing to discomfort or imbalance.
• Clarify Goals – whether You’re seeking relief from chronic tension, support for injury recovery, or a reset for your nervous system, we’ll set clear intentions for your session and longterm care.
• Customized Bodywork – each session may include a blend of bodywork, postural guidance, somatic awareness, and nervous system support techniques – always based on what you feel your body needs most that day.
• Aftercare & At Home Support – before you leave, you’ll receive simple, practical aftercare tips.  These may include mindfulness practices, breathing exercises, gentle movements, or posture awareness homeowrk to help extend the benefits of your session.

Every visit is an invitation to reconnect with your body’s wisdom and support long-term healing – not just temporary relief.

Your comfort and sense of safety are always our top priority.

Undress to your comfort level.  You are invited to undress to tyhe level you feel most at ease with.  Some clients choose to fully undress, while others prefer to remain partially or fully clothed – both are completely welcome.

Professional draping is always used.  If your session involves bodywork on the table, you will be covered with a sheet and blanket at all times.  Only the are being worked on will be uncovered with secure draping protocols, ensuring your privacy and comfort throughout the session.

Fully clothed sessions are available.  We also offer effective sessions that do not require undressing at all, including massage, postural rehabilitation and somatic support.  You’re welcome to wear soft, comfortable clothing for these appointments.

If you’re unsure what to expect or what’s right for you, just ask! We’re here to support you in feeling safe, respected, and empowered in every session.

The short answer: relax and receive. This is your time.

Here’s what that can look like:

• Breathe and settle in – once you’re on the table, take a few deep breaths and let your body begin to soften.  There’s nothing you need to do or perform – just allow yourself to be present.
• Communicate as needed – you’re encouraged to speak up at anytime. If you’re too warm or cold, if the pressure needs adjusting, or if you prefer silence or more explanation – just let us know. This is your session, and your input is always welcome.
• Feel free to be quiet, or not – some clients enjoy chatting, others prefer silence of gentle music.  There’s not “right” way.  We’ll follow your lead and hold space however best supports your comfort and healing.
• Let go of expectations – your body may respond with emotions, sighs, stomach gurgles, deep exhales, or snoring – these are all natural signs of release and regulation.  There’s no need to hold back or judge what arises.
• Trust the process – you are in skilled, respectful hands. The techniques used will meet you where you are and invite your system into deeper ease and balance.

The most important thing you can do during your session is to simply be. We’ll take care of the rest!

Each individual responds differently to massage but there will be a shift in your body and nervous system – whether subtle or profound – and it’s normal for things to continue to unfold in the hours or days afterward.

Support Integration:

• Drink water – hydration helps your tissues and nervous system process the session.
• Rest or slow down – even 10 or 15 minutes of quiet time afterward helps your system integrate.
• Take a short walk or stretch – this helps circulation and gives your body time to adjust in motion.
• Notice your breath and body throughout the day – subtle shifts in awareness can reinforce what we did in the session.
• Avoid overstimulations – if possible, limit screen time, caffeine, alcohol, or intense interactions for a bit afterwards.

Emotional or Somatic Responses – sometimes bodywork awakens stored tension, memories, or emotion. This is a natural part of healing and regulation. You might notice: a release of emotions (tears, laughter, irritation), a sense of vulnerability or openness, or unexpected waves of grief, relief, or clarity. These are all signs that your system is processing. Nothing needs to be fixed. Just witnessed. If you’re ever unsure, reach out through our contact page – we are here to support you!

We use high quality, skin friendly products that are chosen with care for their safety, simplicity, and effectiveness.

• Lotion & Oils – our massage lotion is vegan, paraben free, nut oil free, hypoallergenic, unscented, and free of synthetic fragrances or harsh chemicals. It provides a smooth glide without leaving greasy residue – ideal for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
• Essential Oils (optional) – we may incorporate high-grade essential oils for relaxation or therapeutic purposes.  These are always optional and used sparingly to respect sensitivities.
• Specialized Tools or Balms – for certain session we may use analgesic balms, CBD, or gentle tools for deeper work – always explained beforehand and only applied with your consent.

If you have allergies, skin sensitivites, or personal preferences, please let us know ahead of time. We’re happy to accomodate or work completely product-free when needed.

Our rates are based on session length for bodywork:

• 60 minute session –  $125
• 90 minute session –  $160
• 60 min 4 Hands™ – $200
• 90 min 4 Hands™ – $290

We will never charge extra for enhancements such as cupping, aromatherapy, topical balms, laser therapy, or after care guidance – these are included as needed to support your care.

Please note: Rates for Postural Rehabilitation and Wellness Education sessions may vary depending on format and scope. Please inquire through our contact page for current pricing options.

We do not encourage tipping – your continued care and trust in our work are thanks enough. Our prices reflect the value of our training, experience, and the depth of care we provide – pure and simple.  We never want tipping to feel expected or to be a financial stress. That said, if you genuinely wish to offer a tip, we will respectfully and gratefully accept it.

We accept the following forms of payment:

• Cash
• Credit & Debit Cards 
• HSA/FSA 
• Venmo

Payment is due at the time of service unless otherwise arranged in advance. If you have any questions about payment options or need a reciept for HSA/FSA reimbursement, just let us know – we’re happy to help!

Fill out our Contact Form, or email us directly at handsofchimassage@gmail.com.