JHA initial intake forms are pretty comprehensive, and it's all very important stuff: illnesses, injuries, chronic pain, emergency contact information, and the kind of music you prefer.
People often get stuck on this question, laugh a little and say, "Whatever!" But the question is sincerely asked and totally non-rhetorical! :) Most clients say that they'd like something relaxing or spa-like and I'm happy to oblige with one of my go-to playlists, but every once in a while there is a more detailed answer. Some have a preference for music without vocals or for unfamiliar pieces; they don't want to be distracted by the urge to sing along. Some prefer nature sounds or classical music or jazz. I once had a client request a James Taylor mix for his session; how much fun was that to pull together? I love music of various genres and eras and will do my best to get hold of whatever makes YOU feel happy and relaxed. Or sad and relaxed. It's all good.
If you have a playlist on your iPod or phone or a CD you love, feel free to bring it along and we'll queue it up. I've personally been working with Songza quite a bit lately - they have playlists for every mood, genre, decade, and obscure activity you can think of, some of which are quite entertaining. (Grandpa's Naptime?! Yes please.) A recent 90-minute was accompanied by Epic Film Scores at a client's request. Again, how much fun was that? It was a massage and trivia game in one.
I find music super evocative -- if it's the same for you, I'd love to create an atmosphere that fits just right.
The JHA treatment room has seen sessions of every length and mood...whether we're laughing and talking and having an '80s dance party or silent and calm and listening to The Saddest Song In The World (Barber's Adagio for Strings, in case you wondered) is entirely up to you. Your energy, your needs, your lead. My hope is to match it and magnify it so you feel heard and seen and cared for during our time and work together. If you ever need something adjusted during your session - if the temperature isn't right or the music is too loud or I'm chatting when you'd prefer quiet - please don't hesitate to tell me. Creating space and time just for you is a fundamental part of my job, and I truly care that you feel listened to and well met.
There are many, many options for someone looking for a massage in Central New York. From students doing public clinic to multimillion-dollar spa facilities, the choices are pretty much endless. Setting your practice apart can be a challenge for the smallest of small businesses, but there are things I can do to attract and retain clients and I take them very seriously, as I must. Giving my best massage is always on that list, but I can give more - which is a distinct benefit to being a sole practitioner!
I will always be as generous as I can with my time and energy. You will never be rushed on or off the table, and our intake conversation will never cut into your hands-on time (which is, oddly, unusual). I will try to offer specials and incentives that help make massage affordable and accessible and flexible for you and your friends and family. You choose whether to use a bolster or not, to start the session on your back or belly or side, to chatter away or be silent, to sleep or laugh or cry or meditate or some crazy combination thereof. We will customize the length and focus of your massage to address whatever needs attention that day and that moment.
Making it YOUR time, YOUR space, is something I hope JHA gets right. And whether that's accompanied by a mountain stream or Mountain, I'm all in.
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