FAQ
Massage in Brighton & East Sussex
Massage Questions, Honestly Answered
The real questions people ask me before booking, from what to wear to why you might feel emotional afterwards. If yours isn't here, just give me a call.
Before You Book
How do I know which type of massage I need?
Most people aren't sure, and that's completely fine. A quick chat before your session helps me point you in the right direction. If you're in pain or recovering from something, sports or deep tissue work is usually the starting point. If you just want to switch off, relaxation massage is normally the answer. You don't need to decide before you arrive.
What is the difference between deep tissue and sports massage?
They overlap a lot. Deep tissue is slower and works firmly through layers of muscle to release long held tension. Sports massage is more active and includes stretching and movement, aimed at how your body performs and recovers. You don't need to be sporty for it. I often blend both in one session depending on what your body needs on the day.
I have never had a massage before. What should I know?
Only that there's nothing to worry about. We start with a short chat about how you're feeling and what you want from the session. You stay covered throughout, you can talk or stay quiet, and you can ask me to change the pressure at any point. Your first session is partly your body learning to relax, so many people feel even more benefit by their second or third visit.
How long should my massage be?
For most people 60 minutes is the sweet spot, as it gives enough time to work through the main areas without rushing. If you only have one or two tight spots, 30 minutes can be plenty. For a full body treatment or a stubborn issue, 90 minutes lets me be more thorough.
How often should I get a massage?
It depends on what you're after. For general upkeep and stress, once a month works well for most people. If you're dealing with a specific injury or a lot of tension, we might start closer together and space things out as you improve. I'll always give you my honest view rather than book you in more than you need.
Do you offer massage at home?
Yes. I offer mobile massage across Brighton and East Sussex, so I can bring the table and everything else to you. It works the same as a studio session, I just need a bit of floor space and somewhere to set up. You can pick the mobile option when you book.
Can men get a massage, or is it mainly for women?
Massage is for everyone, and plenty of my clients are men. Lots of blokes carry serious tension from work, training or sitting at a desk and never think to do anything about it. There's nothing soft about looking after your body.
Do I need a massage, a physio or a chiropractor?
They each do a different job. Massage is brilliant for muscular tension, tightness, stress and recovery. For a specific injury, a joint or nerve problem, or a diagnosis, a physio or your GP is the right first stop. I'll always tell you honestly if you'd be better off seeing someone else.
The Questions People Are Too Shy to Ask
What if I pass wind during my massage?
It's completely normal and nothing to apologise for. When your body properly relaxes it starts to let go, and that's one of the ways it does it. I honestly don't notice, and if I do I won't say a word. Please don't spend your session holding it in and miss out on switching off.
What if I get an erection during my massage?
It can happen, and it's not something to feel awkward about. It's an involuntary response to relaxation and touch, nothing more. I treat it as completely normal, carry on as usual and never make it awkward. My work is professional and non-sexual at all times.
I haven't shaved my legs. Does it matter?
Not in the slightest, and I promise it's the last thing on my mind. Body hair makes no difference to your treatment at all, so please don't give it a second thought.
I'm self-conscious about my body. Will you judge me?
Never. I've worked with every shape, size and age, and I'm only ever focused on helping you feel better. You stay covered apart from the area I'm working on, and if there's anywhere you'd rather I left alone, just say so.
What if I drool or snore?
Both are a good sign, they mean you've switched off properly. Plenty of people nod off and I take it as a compliment. There's a tissue right there if you need one, no fuss.
On the Day
What should I wear, and do I have to undress?
You undress to your comfort level, and most people keep their underwear on. You'll be covered by a towel or sheet the whole time, with only the area I'm working on uncovered. If you'd rather stay fully clothed, some techniques like back, neck and shoulder work can be done that way, so just tell me.
How should I prepare for my massage?
Try not to eat a heavy meal right before, drink some water, and arrive a few minutes early. If you can fill in your consultation form ahead of time, we get straight into the treatment rather than the paperwork. A quick shower beforehand is appreciated but not essential.
Do I have to talk during the massage?
Not at all. Some people like to chat, others prefer to close their eyes and drift off. Both are completely fine. The only thing I'll ask is that you speak up if the pressure needs changing or something doesn't feel right.
What if I fall asleep?
That happens all the time and it's a good sign. It means your body has relaxed enough to let go. I'll gently let you know when we're finished, so there's no need to fight it.
What if I'm ticklish?
Very common, and easy to work around. Firm, slow pressure rarely tickles, it's usually light touch that does. Just let me know which areas set you off and I'll adjust how I work them.
Can I have a massage on my period?
Yes, there's no reason to cancel. Some people find massage actually eases cramps and lower back ache around that time. If you'd prefer to skip certain areas or you're not feeling up to it, that's completely your call and no explanation is needed.
Pressure & Pain
Is massage meant to hurt?
No. Some deeper work can feel intense in tight areas, the sort of good ache where it hurts but feels like it's helping. It should never be sharp or unbearable. I check in on pressure as we go, and you can always ask me to ease off. More pressure isn't always better, and I'd rather work at the right depth for your body than push through pain.
Is it normal to feel sore afterwards?
Yes, especially after deeper work like sports massage or IASTM. It's similar to how you feel after a workout, and it usually settles within 24 to 48 hours. Drinking water and keeping warm helps. If soreness ever feels sharp or lasts longer than that, let me know so I can adjust next time.
Why do my muscles feel tight again so soon after a massage?
Tension often builds up from daily habits like posture, desk work, training or stress. A single massage releases it, but those habits can pull things tight again. That's why regular sessions and a few simple stretches between visits make a real difference. I'll usually suggest a couple of movements based on what we worked on.
Can you actually feel my knots and tension?
A lot of the time, yes. Tight bands, tender spots and areas that have seized up have a certain feel under the hands, and it's part of how I work out where to spend your time.
Can you tell how stressed I am just from my muscles?
Often, yes. Stress tends to show up in the same places, the shoulders, neck, jaw and upper back, and how those areas feel tells me a lot about what you've been carrying. Bodies are quite honest like that.
After Your Massage
Why do I feel emotional or tearful after a massage?
This is more common than people expect, and it's nothing to be embarrassed about. When your body drops into a deeply relaxed state, your nervous system shifts out of its usual stress mode, and feelings you've been holding onto can rise to the surface. For some that's a few quiet tears, for others just a wave of relief. It usually passes within a day. If you ever feel it during a session, you don't need to explain anything, we can pause or carry on however you like.
Why am I so tired or sleepy after a massage?
Because your body has moved into rest and recovery mode. Your heart rate slows, your muscles let go, and that deep relaxation can leave you feeling pleasantly drained. It's a normal response and usually lifts after a good night's sleep. Try not to plan anything demanding straight afterwards if you can help it.
Why should I drink water after a massage?
Massage gets your circulation moving and can leave you feeling a little dehydrated, so water helps you feel your best afterwards. It also tends to ease any next day soreness. You don't need to drink litres of it, just keep topped up through the rest of the day.
What should I do between sessions?
Keep moving and stay hydrated. I'll often suggest a few specific stretches or movements based on what we worked on, tailored to your body rather than generic advice. Little and often beats one big effort.
Health & Safety
Is massage safe?
Yes. Massage is a safe, well established therapy when it's carried out by a qualified therapist. I take a full health history before your first treatment so the session is right for you and adapted to anything you're dealing with.
Can I have a massage if I have a medical condition?
In most cases yes, but it depends on the condition. Always tell me about any medical conditions, medications or recent injuries before we start, so I can adapt the session and keep it safe. If something means massage isn't suitable right now, I'll tell you honestly and point you in the right direction.
Can I have a massage while pregnant?
Often yes, with the right adjustments, though it's best to check with me first. I'll ask how far along you are and adapt your position and the techniques I use. If there are any complications with your pregnancy, I may ask you to get the go ahead from your midwife or GP first, purely to keep you and baby safe.
Should I have a massage if I have a cold or feel unwell?
It's best to rebook. Massage boosts your circulation, which can make cold and flu symptoms feel worse, and it's kinder not to pass anything on to me. Once you're back on your feet, massage is a lovely way to help you feel yourself again.
Will I be covered during the treatment?
Yes, always. You're covered by a towel or sheet throughout, with only the area I'm working on uncovered. Underwear stays on. Your comfort and privacy come first, every time.
Is what I tell you kept private?
Completely. Anything you share stays confidential and is only used to keep your treatment safe and suited to you. Your details are never passed to anyone else, other than in the rare situation where there's a serious risk of harm to you or someone else.
Booking & Payment
How much does a massage cost in Brighton?
Sessions start at £35 for 30 minutes, £55 for 60 minutes and £85 for 90 minutes. New clients get 15% off their first session with code NEWCLIENT15. I also offer 10% off for NHS staff, blue light workers, armed forces, carers, teachers and students. You'll find the latest offers on the booking page.
Can I just walk in, or do I need to book?
All sessions need booking in advance, as I work from a private studio with no reception. Same day appointments are often available though, so it's always worth a quick call to check.
What is your cancellation policy?
I ask for at least 24 hours notice to cancel or move an appointment, which lets me offer the slot to someone else. Cancellations made within 24 hours of your session are charged the full session fee.
How can I pay?
I take card, debit and cash. You can pay when you book online, or in person at the end of your session.
Do I need a referral to book?
No referral needed. You can book directly through the website or give me a call. If you're not sure which treatment suits you, get in touch and I'll help you choose.
What if massage doesn't help my problem?
I'll always be straight with you. If I think your issue needs a different kind of help, whether that's physiotherapy, your GP or another specialist, I'll say so clearly rather than keep booking sessions that aren't working for you.
Is there parking at your studio?
Yes, there's parking on Whitehawk Road and the streets around it. If you're driving over, mention it when you book and I'll point you to the easiest spot.
What happens if I'm running late?
Don't panic, just let me know. I'll do what I can, though I may need to keep us to your original finish time so I'm not late for the next person. A quick text is always appreciated.
Do I tip a massage therapist in the UK?
There's no need at all. Tipping isn't expected here, and my prices are my prices. If you'd like to say thank you, an honest Google review helps me more than anything.
Can I book a massage as a gift for someone?
Absolutely, and it's a lovely thing to give. I offer gift cards you can buy online in any amount, booked in whenever suits the person you're treating.
Still Got a Question?
If yours isn't answered here, drop me a message or give me a call. I'm always happy to help you work out what's right for you before you book.
Book Your SessionStudio & mobile · Brighton & East Sussex · 07949 004597