Services
Not sure how much time to book? As a general guideline, 60 minutes is good for full body relaxation with a brief focus on one area of concern. If you have multiple areas of the body which may need extra attention and want to be sure we have time, I suggest booking 90 minutes.
Therapeutic Massage
Available in 60/90 minutes. A customized therapeutic massage based on information you give me on what you feel your body needs. May include traditional Swedish techniques, deep tissue techniques, assisted stretching, guided breathing, heat therapies, and aromatherapy. I tend to follow a sequence that frees up my mind to focus on your body, but you and your body tell me how much time to spend in each area and always happy to make changes upon request. Always facilitated by natural oils which support the functioning of the skin.
Facial Massage
60 minutes. This service, made possible by my licensure in both skin care and massage, might also be called the anti-facial: the relaxation and targeted work you may have loved in a traditional facial, but for any and all gender identities, and minus the anti-aging, product pitches, painful extractions, and harsh exfoliation. Using just a few limited ingredients to cleanse, balance, and moisturize, and a combination of techniques such as Swedish strokes and gua sha, this is designed to do justice to the skin, nervous system, and the delicate physiology of the face in a way that supports function and genuine wellness. We'll also integrate scalp, neck, shoulders, and arms, because it's all connected. See here for more info on this signature service.
What to Expect
Never had a massage? No worries, I'll walk you through it right here so you know what to expect when you come to see me. Whatever service you choose to book, I will always start by getting any pertinent information from you so I can provide you with the best service. You will be asked to fill out the intake form online when you book, so that I can look it over before you come to see me. There are some contraindications to massage, and if you have any health issues or are taking medications, it is helpful for me to know so we can make adjustments accordingly. As well, you can share anything else with me that you want me to know to help you feel comfortable. On the day of your service, please arrive on time or a few minutes early. We will go over any information you've given me, and I will explain exactly what your service will look like so you have an opportunity to offer clear consent for every step of the process. You will have a private area to dress and undress. You will be draped with sheets and blankets throughout the service, with only the part of your body being worked uncovered. While it is easier for me to access areas without clothing, my primary goal is your relaxation, so undress to your level of comfort, and we will always work within that. During your service, I will check in periodically about your comfort or things worth sharing that I may notice, or that may or should affect the course of treatment. For example, you might have come in with wrist pain, but I can feel areas in your forearm and shoulder that may be contributing, so I may ask if I can spend some time in those places instead of just on your wrist. I will never make changes to our agreed upon plan without your consent. Aside from my check ins, please let me know if there is anything else I can do to make you more comfortable. Cold? Hot? Need a bathroom break? Need more pressure? Let me know. I'm no mind reader--I only know these things if you tell me. When your service is done, I'll give you a few minutes to dress and collect yourself and I'll check in on how you're feeling. If you're interested, I am happy to offer recommendations within my scope of practice to keep you feeling good, such as stretches or ergonomic or body mechanic tips. Payment is always expected at the time of service and tips are not necessary but are appreciated. You can book a future service with me before you leave, or you can book online anytime.
A note on accessibility: My suite is ground level, but has a couple of shallow steps up from the sidewalk. Please let me know if you have accessibility concerns and I will do my best to accommodate. Email cathleenpaquet@gmail.com with questions.