For most people, money is the biggest obstacle to getting regular massage. There, I said it! We don't like to talk about money; it's supposed to be a private issue. But, I'm addressing it head on. Regular massage is a considerable budget item, and it's important to acknowledge that.
I know this because...
I walk the walk and get regular massage.
I'm conscious of my finances, so if I don't plan for it, massage doesn't happen.
But if I expect you to jiggle the numbers and budget $90 for a massage every week, month, or quarter, it's my job to tell you what you're buying. So here it is, what you get from a 1 hour, $90 massage.
Clarity in Pricing
What I charge is clearly listed here.
A Signature Massage is flexible and incorporate a variety of techniques, from cupping to stretching to a warm compress. None of these will incur an upcharge. If you need deep tissue one day but lighter pressure the next session, there's no cost difference.
While tips are never expected, I do accept them if you feel inclined. No pressure! Some clients view my sessions as a more clinical experience (like a doctor or PT) and don't tip. Others see me closer to a personal service provider (like a hairdresser or nail technician) and do choose to tip. What you decide is YOUR choice!
A Full Hour
1 hour = 60 minutes. The clock doesn't start until I walk into the room and actually begin the massage.
That's not the case for every business. Massage Envy's hour is 50 minutes. Elements gives you 55 minutes. Many times appointments are booked back to back for therapists at these franchises, which leaves little (if any!) time for cleaning, disinfection, or ventilation in the room. Even some full service spas operate on a 50-minute hour.
But in my office, 30, 60, and 90 minute treatments last exactly as long as indicated. (Unless you're late, then I may have to adjust accordingly.) I leave a minimum of 30 minutes between clients to ensure adequate time for cleaning, disinfecting, ventilation, and documentation of your session.
Ease of Scheduling
Scheduling tends to be the second biggest obstacle to getting regular massage. We never think of scheduling massage at a time that is actually convenient to call.
You can schedule with me online right here!
If you prefer, you can call me at 815-751-0758 to schedule. (We may need to play a bit of phone tag since I may need to call you back between clients.)
Attention
You get my full attention. For 1 hour, you are the superstar! You are the reason we're in the room. Need silence? We can do that.
Want a different type of music playing? Sure. Warm pack on the back? A fan going because it's too hot outside? Not a problem.
You get your own full attention. No phone. No demands. Just you.
Experience
I've had 8 years of practice and hundreds of hours of continuing education. They were all just prep for your massage.
I've taken a 4 day course specifically focused on the needs of Pre & Peri-Natal moms. The cupping seminars I've taken were 3 days for the basic course, and another 2 days for the advanced course. I'm passionate about learning and love to keep my education current! These are just a few of the many courses I've taken to add tools to my toolbox.
Proper Licensing
There are plenty of massage therapists offering discounted massage, operating under the radar. You can check the status of any massage therapist license on the website for the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDPFR). Under license type, select Massage Licensing Bd. You can look up by license number, name, or address. The results will display the license status (ACTIVE, or NOT RENEWED) and whether the therapist has ever been disciplined by the licensing board.
If a therapist is operating without all the proper licenses, their insurance will be voided in the event of claim. That's scary stuff right there.
Insurance
I carry professional liability as well as general business insurance to ensure the safety of my clients. In 8 years, I've never had to file a claim, and hope to keep it that way!
Referrals
A massage with me gets you connections with all the practitioners I know. If massage isn't helping your tendonitis/backache/anxiety, I'll help you find the right acupuncturist, PT or counselor for you.
High Quality Massage Oil
I only use the best products on your skin. The oil blend I use is the perfect nut-free blend of jojoba, safflower, grapeseed, apricot, and peach kernel oils. Natural ingredients enriched with botanical extracts of sea algae and green tea provide for an oil that is easily absorbed, and provides the perfect glide to leave the skin feeling soft and smooth. Completely water soluble, this oil leaves you feeling moisturized, not greasy.
You Get to Support a Small Local Business
It's just me! No conglomerate. No fancy management structure or corporate set up. Just a little business owner, paying her taxes, making a living, and participating in the same communities she serves. There are fewer and fewer businesses that can stay afloat in an era of big-box stores and Amazon. When you pay $90 for a massage, you can be certain that money is staying in the local economy.
All that, from a $90 massage.