Questions and Answers

Questions and Answers
 Serving Austin, Round Rock, Pflugerville and Georgetown, TX

Q: Are there any boundaries for me while I am in your studio?
A: Yes, there is one boundary: Express each moment through respect, peace, love, and kindness.

Q: I never had a massage and I am nervous ... what can I expect?
A: I was also nervous the first time that I experienced a massage ... I think most everyone is ... it's normal. The thing to remember is that I hope your first experience opens the door to a new personal awareness and that the benefits of my services become a routine part of your personal and spiritual growth. I will endeavor to provide an environment that is conducive to privacy and comfort.

When you arrive, you will be escorted into my massage studio that has been specially designed and decorated to facilitate massage services. If you are a new client, I will briefly discuss the questions you answered when scheduling the appointment.

I will then leave the room and give you sufficient time to undress to your comfort level. Once undressed, you position yourself on the massage table by laying face down, on your stomach. You have the choice as to whether you want to be covered with a sheet, a towel, or no draping at all (see next question for further information on nudity).

After a few minutes, I will enter the room and begin the massage. The experiences I facilitate are ultimately guided by my sense of intuition to customize every session. Approximately half way through the massage, I will ask you to turn over so I can complete my work on the front side of your body.

During my work, I will 'check-in' with you periodically. If you are uncomfortable with any aspect of my work, please let me know. Although I am intuitive in nature, what feels good to some does not feel good to others, so please convey to me what feels good to you ... and, what does not.

After the session, you may choose to take advantage of a shower in the adjacent rest room to wash off oils, powder and/or crème. If you wish to utilize the shower, just let me know prior to the end of the session.

As you get to know me and yourself over repeated sessions, some of your preferences and your level of comfort may very well change, at which time you may renegotiate any aspect of your sessions. Knowing how to receive a massage is an art form in and of itself. For more information on massage and healing, click here.

Q: Do I have to take all my clothes off?
A: No. You are asked to undress to whatever point you are comfortable. This means you may remain fully clothed or you may undress completely, or anything in between. You may also choose whether you wish to be draped (covered with a sheet or towel) or not.

Although I recommend undressing completely and using no draping, your modesty and boundaries are always respected. If you want draping, your request will be honored without pause.

Clients who do not wish to be draped enjoy a massage that is fluid in its execution, rather than a 'compartmentalized' massage, as there is no stopping the massage to adjust draping. As a therapist, I can see the body in its entirety ... allowing me to access the body's alignment better than if a client is covered.

Of utmost importance to me is respecting the boundaries of others. Clients should never feel as if their limits have been invaded. Limitations vary between client to client and I am very careful to respect the personal boundaries of each client. So, before the session, please feel free to convey your boundaries to me.

Q: How is the massage service of a private practitioner different from that of a day spa?
A: I had an experience being a therapist for a day spa/massage clinic and, indeed, the differences are many. Most day spas and clinics schedule massages on the hour and offer clients a 50 minute massage. So, within 10 minutes, I needed to check the last client out, change the linens, check the new client in, and wash my hands. Also, within that 10 minutes, I needed to properly access the client's health in order to perform a massage that was beneficial to the client.

Doing back-to-back massages with 10 minutes between sessions created an environment in which the spa was unable to convey a sense of peace and an atmosphere of tranquility. This was just not enough time to provide the client with the service they had every right to expect.

Also, I have found that many therapists choose to work at day-spas, where draping is usually required, because they are not comfortable with an unclothed human body. Strange, isn't it? They are body workers, but yet are apprehensive of the human body. I invite you to consider this when choosing a therapist as the energy of the therapist can be important to achieve the desired outcome of your session.

That all said, choosing a day spa can be wise if you have other needs besides experiencing a massage. Many upscale spas have various amenities that clients may access for the entire day, such as a sauna, steam room, etc. So, if you desire to spend a day at a spa, choose a 'real' day spa ... not some establishment in a strip mall that calls themselves a "spa". However, upscale day spas can be expensive and few people actually take advantage of the spa's amenities.

If you are not looking for an all-day excursion, you may want to try a private practitioner such as myself. I am able to provide personalized service. I also provide a full hour of massage (60 minutes) ... not the 50 minutes that most spas or clinics offer.

I also schedule myself at least a half hour between clients. This allows me to provide an environment that is not rushed, but rather one of solace. Because I am calm and collected in my day-to-day activities, that positive energy is available to the client during the session offering a sense of peace and centeredness.

Q: I have not taken care of my body like I should. Should I feel embarrassed?
A: I invite you to experience your body as a perfect vessel of Divine energy, no matter what body type you may have. I have seen more butts than a rental car, so there is nothing that your body presents to me that I have not previously seen on multiple occasions. In truth, a person's physical body is only one aspect of massage. What resonates with me most is an individuals interpersonal capacity and ability to express love, peace, and kindness.

Q: Is your service sexual in nature?
A: If your question is: "Will I get laid?", the answer is: No. That said, I understand that humans possess sexual energy. People have experienced this type of energy with the simplest of physical contacts, and indeed, completely without physical contact. Because of the fear, guilt, and shame that society thrusts on sexuality today, we are raised with mixed messages from our parents, our church, and even our own bodies. This can cause confusion, shame, and lack of a positive self-image. But, such energy is nothing to be ashamed of ... and, in fact, should be embraced and subsequently channeled to better accomplish your daily goals. Therefore, I invite you to celebrate your body rather than choosing to feel shame.

Q: Do I need to do anything while you're performing the massage?
A: To facilitate relaxation, I recommend that clients focus on their breathing. Long, deep breaths can assist clients to relax into a session. Also, act as if your body is limp. If I move a limb, do not assist the movement. Rather, totally relax your muscles. Let me do all the work.

Some clients like to talk during massages. While I recommend that you simply focus on your breathing, I honor each conversation and am open to discuss any matter on the client's mind. Some clients have had emotional releases during sessions. I assure you that releases of this nature are quite normal. Please feel free to convey your thoughts and feelings. You are in a safe environment in which your thoughts and feelings are honored and kept in the strictest of confidence.

As I feel areas of tension or see areas of concern during a therapeutic or sports massage, it may be necessary for me to ask questions regarding how your anatomy feels to understand your unique challenges and assist in the execution of the session.

Of course, if at any time you feel uncomfortable with any part of the session, please inform me immediately.

Q: Do I need to make you aware of my health issues?
A: Be sure to tell me beforehand about any recent health problems, injuries, or surgeries. Massage should not be preformed over the site of any recent tissue damage, such as a broken bone, a bruise, or a wound. Care will be taken with work on persons with fragile or brittle bones. Areas of internal organic problems should be avoided. If there is any doubt, a physician should be consulted prior to any appointment. Typically, massage will release toxins that have been stored in your soft tissues. A healthy amount of water should be consumed after a massage session to help flush the toxins from your body.

Q: Does your work hurt?
A: I seek to provide pleasure to your body, mind & spirit. Sometimes, however, pain may be felt when working on problem areas; the pain does not come from the work itself, but from the tissue pathology. Nothing I do ought to hurt if everything is ok, but some clients come to me precisely because everything is not ok. In any case, the client needs to let me know if the pain is more than he or she cares to tolerate. Many clients describe parts of my massage as "hurting good", meaning that they feel the difference between constructive and destructive pain.

Q: What kind of massage mediums (oils and creams) do you use?
A: I use some of the highest quality products on the market. For additional information on my massage mediums, see the massage crème, oils, and essential oils page.

Q: Do you have a 'standard routine', or do you customize every session?
A: I understand that the popular answer to that question by many therapists is that each session is 'uniquely customized to fit the client'. But a skilled therapist know that there is much more truth to be learned and deployed during sessions.

For sessions such as therapeutic massage where I am addressing a specific injury, my approach uniquely varies with each session depending on the particular challenge. However, for relaxation sessions such as a full-body swedish massage, a skilled therapist will work with the mind as well as the body.

The mind and body can act uniquely different. A client may arrive in my studio mentally prepared for a massage, however, their body may not yet be receptive to touch. Recognizing these nuances and gently encouraging the body to be receptive to healing is an art form, not a science.

In a relaxation session, the client's mind should become used to a 'routine' so the client is able to reach a 'Zen' experience. However, the client's body should never become used to a routine. Most bodies that get used to a routine resist the work. So depending on what I find during the session, I employ slight variances to a routine to address the challenges. I do so in a way that, hopefully, does not disturb the client mentally. A good relaxation session is a session where I can employ a variety of techniques without the client ever recognizing a difference in the routine.

Q: Why are Body Electric/Taoist Sessions only available to graduates of Body Electric?
A: In this session, the client is a highly active participant. In order to facilitate the session, a client must have knowledge of exercises that are taught in Body Electric workshops. In workshops, participants learn various forms of breathing exercises as well the 'big draw', a breathing and muscle contraction exercise borrowed from Taoist master Mantak Chia. If you are interested in taking a Body Electric Class in Austin, please see the Body Electric website for information about upcoming events (note: Body Electric is a separate business entity from my private practice).

Q: Do you do outcalls? What areas do you serve?
A: Although my private studio is located in the Central Texas area, I have traveled extensively to provide services. If you are interested in a session at your location, do not utilize my automated scheduling system, but rather contact me with the details of your request and I will schedule the session for you. For additional information on outcalls, see the following notes and fees:

General Outcall Notes:

  • Client must provide a massage table. I do not travel with my massage table and I do not provide massage on anything other than a massage table.

  • I am not available for outcalls that require travel through the downtown Austin I-35 and Mopac/Loop 1 corridors during weekday morning and evening rush hour traffic (7am to 9am and 4pm to 7pm).

  • If you are in a hotel, please note that I only accept outcalls to hotel suites and not standard sized rooms (no exceptions).

  • I do not offer all services as outcalls. Some select services are only offered within my studio.

Outcall Fees:

  • For outcall travel within 25 miles of studio: Session fee, plus a $30 outcall charge.

  • For outcall travel 26 to 199 miles of studio: Session fee, plus .60 cents per mile (port-to-port).

  • For outcall travel 200 miles or more of studio: Session fee, plus $30 per hour (port to port), plus travel costs.

  • For clients that desire extended time: Travel cost, plus a flat rate of (session fees included):
    - 2 to 3 days: $500 per day, plus travel costs.
    - 4 to 6 days: $400 per day, plus travel costs.
    - 7 to 14 days: $350 per day, plus travel costs.
    - 15 days or more: $300 per day, plus travel costs.

Q: I'd like to buy a massage for my significant other. How do I do that?
A: I honor your desire to provide your significant other a massage. I invite you to consider that receiving a massage can be a highly personal experience for many people. Many people desire to physically and mentally prepare for a massage. There are times that surprises are not welcomed. If you desire to purchase a massage for your significant other, I invite you to let your significant other know of your plans at least 24 hours prior to the session so that s/he has an opportunity to physically and mentally prepare. If the person receiving the massage is a new client, s/he will need to complete the online intake form. You will not be able to complete the form for your significant other. Most often, I find that purchasing a gift certificate and providing it as a gift is the best option.

Q: Why are your rates slightly more expensive than others?
A: Rates for massage services in Austin range between $40/hr and $150/hr with the average rate for a professional massage being slightly over $70/hr.

My clients tend to be well-educated individuals who regard massage an essential part of their health routine, are self-aware of universal energy, are seeking facilitation with energy movement, and/or are seeking to expand their spheres of knowledge and life experiences. My clients benefit from high-quality sessions within a premium environment facilitated by a skilled therapist who adeptly employs a variety of Western and Eastern metaphysical sciences.

Q: Where are you located and when are you available?
A: My studio is located in my private home on the southeast side of Round Rock [MAP] . Most of my clients book their appointments the same day. I only accept three appointments a day, so I recommend booking as early as possible, or book a few days in advance. My hours vary depending on my personal schedule. I am usually available for sessions beginning at 8AM to 9AM and accept appointments until approximately 9:00PM

Q: Is tipping customary?
A: Typically, tipping is customary at day spas and salons. Although appreciated, tipping is not expected with private practice practitioners such as myself. In fact, if you pay be credit card, you will not see a blank line for a tip on my credit card form. If you do desire to tip, please see "Experiencing the Meaning of Christmas" for further information on how I utilize tips.

Q: I notice references to Spirituality on your site. Are you religious?
A: I grew up in a family that was influenced by the Christian Reformed Church, an evangelical group of religious zealots. At the age of 17, I stopped attending the church because I did not agree with its teachings. While I felt that my decision was right for me, there were also some elements that I missed. So, throughout my twenties, I attended a variety of churches searching for connection to the greatest good through teachings that resonated with me. Not finding a home, I stopped searching externally and began searching internally. While I found connection, I still longed for gatherings of like-hearted/minded people that harbored a desire to explore and practice.

In 2003, I encountered an advertisement for a murder mystery dinner being held at Unity Church of the Hills. I imagined an event where the presentation somehow proselytized their beliefs and ended with a 'laying of hands'. However, the notion that such an event would be held at a church intrigued me, so I attended.

I was seated at a table with seven other people. Four where members of Unity, the rest of us were not. I was charmed to find the production was professionally put together by members of the church who were also professional musicians and actors. There was no proselytizing at all ... in fact, the production would have been viewed as downright tawdry by the churches that I had attended in the past.

While eating dinner, someone asked the question, "What does Unity believe?" A member paused for a moment and then responded, "Ya know, I can probably sum it up by saying that we believe that God's not pissed off at us." I almost choked on my food! I stopped eating, put my fork down and started asking questions of my own.

I have been attending Unity ever since. Everyone is welcomed and all beliefs are honored. The beliefs merge well with my other Spiritual practices of Buddhism, Mysticism, and Kashmiri Shavaism (a lineage of tantra).

Your needs may vary and if so, I invite you to explore whatever resonates with you. Whether someone is a Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Jewish, Muslim, Wiccan, or affiliated with any other group truly makes no difference. The question for me is whether or not the practice generates love, acceptance, and peace. If so, I celebrate the path, whatever the practice.

If you choose to be agnostic or atheist, I celebrate you and I welcome you into my studio. Please know that while I choose not to thrust my beliefs upon you, I also do not shrink from my Spiritual connection. I know that your path is exactly where you need to be in this life moment. In fact, I like talking with atheists ... they don't blame God for anything!

So, no, I am not religious. Religion is for those who choose to live in fear and seek fire insurance. Spirituality is for those who know that there is no separation between us and God, therefore there is nothing we need do or not do to experience the abundant love of Spirit.

Q: What is your privacy policy?
A: My studio is sacred space. As such, all conversations and sessions are considered confidential and private. Any personal information, whether written or orally conveyed, is kept in the strictest of confidence and will never be shared with any other person or organization without your prior permission.

Absolutely nothing will be mailed to any client via US Mail, unless requested, or unless there is an overdue, unpaid balance on your account.

If you are a 'high profile' client, please communicate with me regarding your unique needs. Special considerations can be extended, such as:

  • Special booking procedure for your sessions.

  • Longer buffer time between your session and other appointments ensuring absolutely no contact with other clients (possible extra cost depending on length of buffer time requested).

  • Private entry through a fully enclosed, air conditioned garage ensuring no exposed visibility to local neighborhood (note: garage can not accommodate limousines).

  • Any other privacy needs that ensures your privacy and comfort.

Q: Is there anything else I should know?
A: Yes. Some therapists make a practice of trying to "up-sell" their clients. Once the client is in their place of business, they may try to sell them additional products and/or services. Or, at the end of a session, they may elaborately convey to the client that s/he is experiencing a unique physical challenge by spewing out a bevy of medical terminology and then subsequently recommend that the client book a series of follow-up sessions to address the challenge.

You will not experience these types of marketing tactics in my practice.

Also, I have experienced some clients who feel like it is necessary to apologize if they have not booked an appointment in quite some time. please know that no such apology is necessary. In my experience, the Universe brings the people to my door who need to be in my studio. No more. No less. So, although I am abundantly grateful for each opportunity to share in the growth of my clients, there is absolutely no expectation that clients need to see me on any sort of regular basis, or that they need to see me and only me.

My desire is to intently support my clients in any way that I can. I do not attempt to be the one and only therapist for everyone. This means that if the client is in need of something that I do not provide or something that I feel may best be provided by another therapist, I am delighted to make referrals to other practitioners who may better meet their needs. I urge you to state your desires, wants, and needs so that I can best support you.

My intention is that clients experience my studio as a temple of support.

Q: Do you have a question for me?
A: Indeed. What may I help you create today?

It may sound like a simple question, but it is one of the first questions I ask during a session and one that offers an opportunity for a meaningful exchange.

I invite you to arrive in my studio able to specifically articulate that which you desire and be a partner in the experience that we create.

I find that successful sessions are those in which the client is an active participant by clearly articulating their desires, thoughts, and feelings. If you are unsure of what you desire, I invite you to tell me how you feel and what has resonated in your recent life experiences. Sometimes that which we desire is not on the surface, but buried beneath layers of societal influences.

I invite you to communicate openly and with confidence in an environment of non-judgmental trust.

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Copyright © 2007 - Brad Stevens - all rights reserved worldwide
Austin, Texas