Valerie Summer, licensed massage therapist, nationally certified, licensed in NY State.Hand Massage
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Therapeutic Body Work, Mindful Deep-Tissue Therapy, Relaxation Massage

My massage studio inside Nature’s Storehouse, at 21 Main St. , is easy to find. You can park out front on the street, or take advantage of free parking behind the store. Once inside the store, my studio is in the back, on the right hand side. Step into the kitchen and knock on my door to let me know you are there. When you come for your appointment, you never have to worry that I am with another client. (Those are MY shoes left out on the mat) . I am always ready for you 5 minutes before your appointment, or 10 minutes if it is your first time to see me.

We will spend a few minutes discussing any problems or requests you have for your massage, or at your first appointment, I will take a brief health history. I do my best to tailor the massage to each individual, calling on a number of different modalities. My general style is connective tissue, which is along the lines of deep, slow Swedish, with an emphasis on musculature. I feel my way into the pressure that is right for you, and welcome any feedback during the massage.

Silence and relaxation go so well together. . I am always interested to hear anything that is directly about your body or the work we are doing at the time. Other than that, you may expect to receive your massage in silence. There will be quiet relaxation music, unless you prefer no music. Everything is adjustable in the room, so please be sure to speak up about temperature, blankets, pillows, anything at all that will help you to be as comfortable as possible. A massage provides a very special time just for you, when cell phones are turned off and you can completely be in the moment to experience your body.

Getting a back massageWhat to Expect

A massage can help you feel better than you do now...

What can massage do for me?

As a healing art, massage has a venerable tradition extending back to both Greek and Chinese civilizations. Not only does massage encourage healing by drawing upon the mind/body connection, it increases circulation, relieves muscle aches and pains, and strengthens the immune system. Massage is also a powerful adjunct therapy to many medical techniques. Subjectively, one may feel more energized and stress-free after a massage. In short, massage enhances your well-being. Above all, it FEELS GREAT!

How long is a massage?

One hour is the usual length of a session. One half hour is also available, as well as one and a half hours.

Do I have to remove all my clothes?

You will be asked to remove all the clothes that you are comfortable removing. That decision is entirely up to you . You will be fully draped throughout the entire bodywork session.

How to receive a massage

Your only job is to relax as completely as possible. Breathe deeply and regularly, allowing the body to become heavy and sink into the table. As the therapist's hands locate areas of tension, try to let go and relax those areas.

Talk, for the most part, is distracting and unnecessary. A good massage requires concentration on the part of the therapist. A great massage is created out of a meditative space between the therapist and recipient.

Do feel free to give feedback. If any stroke or stretch is uncomfortable for you, let the therapist know. Remember, the massage is for you!

If emotions surface, do not be afraid to give them expression. The body is the seat of the emotions. Sometimes during massage emotions will come up, and it is of great benefit if they can be released and worked through. At the very least, do not be afraid to sigh with relaxation or hum with pleasure.

Closing your eyes may help you see with your sense of touch. Feel your body inside and out. To close the eyes during massage can help bring one's center of energy out of the head and into the body.

During the two or three hours following the massage, drink plenty of water. This helps the system eliminate toxins which have been flushed out of the soft tissue and into the bloodstream.

How far ahead of time should I call to make my appointment?

Calling a few days to a week ahead of time will make it easier to schedule your appointment at the time that is best for you.

Please note: Therapeutic massage is non-sexual. Illicit or sexually suggestive comments or advances will result in the immediate termination of the session.

Payment FAQ

Cash or check payment may be given at time of service. Credit card payment is available through my gift certificate page.
Health Savings Debit (or Flex Spending plan):
Receipts for reimbursement are available at the time of your appointment. Just ask!

Cancellation policy

Call to let me know if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. If you do not inform me 24 hours before your missed appointment, there wil be a fee of 50% of the cost of that appointment (except for emergencies and inclement weather). Thanks for your understanding.

Please call for more information or to make an appointment (315) 379-1955 or (315) 375-6655.