Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What should I do during the massage?

Relax! Enjoy it!

Before the massage we will discuss your needs and comfort so that everything is how you want it, including the extent of the massage. I work on a soft cushioned mat on the floor or a massage table with face hole (you choose when you book). I work intuitively to what you need, but checking in with you to ensure your comfort. I will encourage you to breathe deeply in harmony with the massage strokes. This will help deep relaxation throughout the session. The massage can be active, with stretches and manipulations of the main joints and muscles which involves some movement led by me (This is similar to Thai massage), or wholly relaxing and nourishing where you stay inactive and relaxed. Typically it’s a combination. My advice is you just immerse yourself in it and open yourself to relaxation and healing.

Q: What do I wear during the massage?

Whatever is most comfortable for you that also allows me to massage non-intimate parts of the body (back, glutes, limbs, feet, stomach, shoulders, neck, head). I use towels/drapes to cover parts of the body as preferred by you. If you have any concerns about this then please speak. You will have privacy to change and settle before and after the massage.

Q: I really like the sound of this massage but I’m not sure it’s for me. What do you suggest?

I suggest you read this website, including the reviews, and consider calling me or emailing for a no obligation and confidential chat to see if you’ll be comfortable and if it would benefit you. You can also look at my Google business page which has verified reviews (search ‘ayurvedic massage Lewes’ where you will find Simply Massage - Ayurvedic Based Healing in the list).

Q: What oils do you use?

Ayurvedic Massage: I use sesame, grapeseed or sunflower as my base oil. For the aficionados I also have Ashwaganhda oil (specific to ayurvedic treatments)!

LomiLomi Massage: Coconut oil normally, other oils are available.

If you want your own oils, you are welcome to bring them.

Q: What is Calamus powder?

I normally combine calamus powder with the oil ( ‘Acorus Calamus’ is also called Vacha or Vekhand in India). Widely used externally in ayurvedic medicine, the Calamus roots are ground into powder and applied with oil as a main characteristic of Ayurvedic Yoga Massage. It has exfoliating and invigorating properties to warm up the body faster, stimulate blood circulation in the muscles and remove toxins. It is not used on any parts already ‘hot’, e.g. rashes, dermatitis or psoriasis, or above the neckline. Most people report great benefits to the skin condition. You can just have oil if you so wish.

Q: What if I’m not physically comfortable lying down?

Firstly, we will work out between us if adjustments and support with pillows, towels and support blocks can make you comfortable. Most people find this successful. If not, we can find adjustments whereby you adopt sitting (with or without a chair) or other positions that you are comfortable and relaxed in.

Q: I have an ongoing physical challenge. Do you offer a flexible massage routine, for example, that focuses on my issue?

Absolutely Yes. The massage will be adapted to support your needs. For example, if someone wishes to address a particular condition, e.g. frozen shoulder, cerebral palsy or anxiety, we will agree a massage, or series of treatments, that focusses on exactly that, as well as maintaining balance of the whole person. I am versatile to your needs. Small or large adaptations can be made to support you. Please call to discuss if you are unsure.

Q: What if I am pregnant?

Both massages, appropriately adapted, are excellent support to people during pregnancy. I have trained in giving massage to pregnant people and I will make adaptations to ensure your comfort, safety, and the safety of your baby - it generally involves a few pillows!

Q: Do I need to provide anything if I have treatment in my home?

I will come with all that is required. We will just need a floor space about the size of a double bed and for the room to be warm for your comfort, e.g the floor of a lounge.

Q: What makes the massage Ayurvedic? ([eye]+[oor]+[ved]+[ic])

It’s nothing magical. The origin of this practice, passed down and developed in India over many years, is rooted in the principles of ayurvedic medicine. Those principles are about achieving balance in the body and in the mind and spirit to return to and maintain personal harmony, healing and wellbeing. The whole focus is to help the recipient to address both physical and mental pains, stresses and imbalances through bodywork, supported by oils.

Q: You mention Yoga a few times, what’s the yoga bit?

It relates to two elements of the massage. Firstly to the philosophy and origin of yoga as a practice supporting human wellbeing, and secondly, the stretches used mirror yoga positions. You don’t have to put yourself into them, I do the stretching according to your needs and levels of tolerance, so you can be relaxed about the yoga reference!

Q: What’s your cancellation policy?

I ask that you give notice of necessary cancellations as soon as you know you can’t come. Cancellation with less than 24 hours notice will require full payment unless you reschedule your appointment to another date.