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Client receiving touch

What to expect from your massage

Preparing for your treatment

Thank you for booking a massage. I look forward to welcoming you to Olive Tree Therapies.

 

There’s very little you need to do to prepare, but please avoid eating a heavy meal within an hour of your treatment to ensure your comfort during the session.

 

You’ll receive a consultation form via email when you book, and again the day before your appointment. Please complete it before your visit—this information is confidential and helps me tailor your treatment safely and effectively.

 

For more details on how your personal and medical data is handled, you can read the Privacy Policy.

When you arrive

We’ll begin with a brief chat to discuss your consultation form, answer any questions, and agree on your treatment plan. Together, we’ll decide which areas of your body to focus on, and how long to spend on each. If you’re feeling nervous or unsure at any point, that’s absolutely okay—everything we do is led by your comfort and consent.

 

What to expect (by treatment type)

Western style massages

Swedish, Deep Tissue, Sports, Aromatherapy, MLD

I’ll leave the room to give you privacy to undress and get comfortable on the massage table. You’ll be offered towels and blankets to stay warm and covered throughout your treatment—but you are always welcome to opt out of these if you prefer.

 

Therapeutic Thai massage

You’ll be given a set of clean, loose-fitting clothes to change into, which allow for ease of movement. Thai massage is performed fully clothed on a cushioned mat on the floor (or on a table if kneeling or sitting is uncomfortable). I will guide you through a series of supported postures and stretches, and check in with you throughout.

Ayurvedic Kalari floor massage

This treatment is traditionally performed without clothing to allow for long, flowing oil strokes and to avoid staining garments. However, you are very welcome to keep your underwear on. A large cloth is used throughout to preserve warmth and modesty. I’ll leave the room while you undress and settle onto the mat.

Samādhi massage

This follows the same setup as Western style massages, with two key additions:

 

  • A short guided breathing practice at the start

  • A quiet 10-minute integration period at the end, where I’ll leave the room so you can rest and return slowly

 

Ayurvedic massage

Abhyanga is usually performed without clothing to allow for the continuous flow of oil, but underwear may be worn if you prefer. You will remain covered with a cloth throughout the massage. Other Ayurvedic procedures vary depending on the specific treatment. See more here.

 

During your massage treatment

Oil massages

Depending on your skin type, allergies, and the treatment, I may use organic oils such as coconut, avocado, sweet almond, grapeseed, or apricot kernel. You may also choose to add essential oils to your blend.

 

All massages

I generally work in silence unless you prefer otherwise. I’ll check in with you about pressure and comfort, and we can adjust your posture with cushions and supports at any time. Music will be played unless you request silence or have a preference—your sensory experience matters.

 

Your boundaries and preferences are always respected. You’re welcome to speak up at any time—whether you need to pause, change position, or stop altogether.

 

After your treatment

​I’ll leave the room to give you privacy to get up slowly, towel off any oil (if used), and get dressed in your own time. Water will be available to help you rehydrate and reorient gently.I’ll leave the room to give you privacy to get up slowly, towel off any oil (if used), and get dressed in your own time. Water will be available to help you rehydrate and reorient gently.

Have questions?

Check out the FAQ’s section of the website or get in touch with me.

Aftercare advice

To maximise the benefits of your massage, I recommend the following:

 

  • Stay well hydrated

  • Avoid heavy or greasy meals after your treatment

  • Minimise caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol for 24 hours if possible

  • Avoid strenuous activity and intense workouts for the rest of the day

  • Skip hot showers or sunbeds immediately afterwards to let the oils nourish your skin

  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing

  • Give yourself time to rest and reflect—your body has done deep work

You may experience:

  • Mild soreness or redness in treated muscles (especially after deep work)

  • Headaches—usually relieved by hydration and rest

  • Cold or flu-like symptoms due to detoxification

  • A feeling of emotional release or unexpected energy—this is your nervous system recalibrating

  • Increased urination or thirst

These are normal responses and typically resolve within 24–48 hours. If you’re ever concerned, please feel free to contact me directly.

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aftercare
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