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Questions and Answers
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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 on the massage table, and check the new client in. 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. Please 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 transmitted to the client during the session
leaving them with a sense of peace and centeredness.
Q: I have not taken care of my body like I should. Should I
feel embarrassed?
A: Although I invite you to feel what you desire to feel, I also 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. Please understand that 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. However, I do 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. There is a mantra for my studio, and that is: "Absolutely no shame allowed here".
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.
I honor each conversation and am open to discuss any matter on your mind.
As I feel areas of tension or see areas of concern during a sports massage, it may be necessary for me to ask
questions regarding how your anatomy feels to understand your
specific 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.
A: I use some of the highest quality products on the market. I have
them shipped to me since they are not available for retail sale here in Austin. For more
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 skilled therapists and clients who receive regular massage 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.
In
skilled massage therapy work, massaging the mind
and body is 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 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.
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 subscribe to the
Body Electric
Texas Yahoo Group to receive notifications
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 I am located in the Central Texas area, I have traveled extensively to provide massage services. In the Austin area, I am not available for outcalls that require travel through the Austin I-35 and Mopac corridors during evening rush hour (weekdays 4:30PM to 6:30PM). Please see the Rates page for additional details on outcall charges.
I also offer sessions in Dallas, See the Dallas
page for further information.
For areas outside of Central Texas and Dallas, outcall charges are $15 per hour (port to port) or $200 per day, plus travel costs, plus session fees (client must supply massage table for sessions requiring a table).
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. However, I invite you to consider that receiving a massage can be a highly personal experience for many people. There are times that surprises are not welcomed, so 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 they have 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.
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 south 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 and accept appointments
until approximately 9:00PM, however, I accept only 3 sessions per day.
A: Typically, tipping is customary at day spas and salons.
Although appreciated, tipping is not expected with private practice
practitioners such as myself. 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? 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', but the notion of such an event being 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 was almost tawdry! 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 everyone's beliefs are honored, whether they are the beliefs of Unity or not. Unity approaches Spirituality from five core beliefs:
These beliefs work for me and are born of Truth. The beliefs also merge well with my other Spiritual practices. My personal practice is a blend of teachings from Unity, Buddhism, and Kashmirian Shavaism (a specific 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!
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.
If you are a 'high profile' client, please communicate with me regarding
your unique needs. Special considerations can be extended, such as:
Absolutely nothing will be mailed to any client via US Mail, unless
requested, or unless there is an overdue, unpaid balance on your account. e-Mails of an informational nature and/or notifications of new services
are periodically sent to only those clients who 'opt-in' to receive such e-mails when filling out the
new client profile.
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 recommending 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? 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. Some clients arrive in my studio unable to articulate that which they desire. Subsequently, they leave it up to me to create an experience. Please understand, however, that although I am intuitive in nature, I can only be a guide and a mirror unto thyself. 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 -
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