FAQ

Massage and Wellness Center in Portsmouth FAQ

  • Yes! Our Massage and Wellness Center is open Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  • On weekdays, we are open from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Please visit our contact us page to book a visit or learn more about our schedule.

  • Yes, at our massage and wellness center, we can combine treatments to suit your specific health needs.
  • For instance, we can combine deep tissue massage with reiki treatments to address aches and stress.

To learn which massage and wellness treatments are best for your specific needs, call us at (603) 373-8780, or book an appointment for the day and time you want.

  • For specific individual massage and wellness treatments, you may visit our pricing page to learn more.
  • To learn more about the details of pricing and our service, call us at (603) 373-8780.
  • Reiki masters administer our Reiki massage treatments.
  • Moreover, our massage and wellness center in Portsmouth offers an ideal atmosphere that is more like a sanctuary.
  • We provide the most relaxing atmosphere with the best combination of modalities to complement your Reiki sessions to guarantee the best result from your visit.
  • No. We don’t offer Reiki courses.
  • We only offer Reiki treatments in our Portsmouth massage and wellness center.

A massage session typically lasts for one hour (60 minutes). However, depending on your medical condition, your health needs, or if you choose to combine your massage treatments with other modalities, massage sessions could last up to 90 minutes. To learn more about specific massage durations, visit our pricing page or call us at (603) 373-8780.

Massage Services in Portsmouth, NH FAQ

Massage Services in Portsmouth NH FAQ
  • Yes! Massage and Wellness collective offers sports massage.
  • Our wellness center provides the perfect rest, rejuvenation, and massage atmosphere.
  • We have the best massage available for you for any aches and pains resulting from sports activities.
  • For the best time to do prenatal massage, we recommend women be 13 weeks to post-due date.
  • However, we recommend you consult your health professional to make sure that you are a good candidate for prenatal massage.
  • As of today, we don’t offer couples massage yet.
  • Couples can come together. However, massage is in separate rooms for each person.
  • We are planning to offer this service to couples in the near future.

Women with the following health conditions will require clearance from their doctor:

  • High-Risk Pregnancy
  • Preeclampsia
  • Severe Headaches
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Previous Pre-Term Labor
  • History of Miscarriage
  • Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension

To learn more about pre-natal massage, read our blog about this topic.

Lymphatic drainage massage provides relief for people suffering from lymphatic fluid buildup due to:

    • Burn scar excision
    • Filariasis
    • Infection or trauma in the lymphatic system
    • People receiving cancer treatments, especially when lymph nodes are removed
    • Health conditions that impact blood flow in the extremities
    • Fibromyalgia
    • Vein thrombosis
  • Relieves swelling of the extremities
  • Provides pain relief
  • Relieves feelings of heaviness
  • They have mostly the same benefits since sports massage is related to Swedish massage and shares some of the same massage methods.
  • However, sports massages are specifically designed and targeted for people who engage in sports, as the name suggests, and heavy physical activities.
  • Sports massage is better at decreasing the recovery time between strenuous activities and the chance of injury between events.
  • Yes! Our massage and wellness center offers a sanctuary for relaxation ideal for all of our modalities.
  • We include aroma boost, which uses the aroma of essential oils to engage in the connection of mind-body awareness.
  • Soothing sounds and essential oil scents are meant to relax the other senses, perfectly complementing our massage and wellness therapy sessions.
  • You may discuss your personal preferences with your massage therapist and they will do their best to accommodate your request.

Not necessarily. Clients stay fully clothed during specific massage treatments, such as Reiki. Though specific massage treatments, such as deep tissue massage, Swedish, and sports massage, require leaving the target area exposed for the massage. Sites that won’t need massaging will remain covered.

Yes. We encourage everyone to share the necessary information to ensure that your massage is as comfortable and effective as possible. Our massage therapist will ask specific questions before starting each session. We always leave channels of communication open before and during the massage because they are vital to ensuring that we prevent you from feeling discomfort during sessions.

Deep tissue massage is an advanced technique in massage therapy that specifically targets the realignment of the body’s connective tissues and deeper layers of muscles. Unlike Swedish massage, which is more gentle and focused on relaxation, deep tissue massage involves slow strokes and firm pressure to target specific problem areas. It aims to alleviate chronic tension and muscle knots.

Deep tissue massage has numerous benefits. These benefits include pain relief, improved posture, increased mobility and flexibility, reduced muscle tension, enhanced circulation, and stress reduction. It can also help rehabilitate injured muscles and tissues by breaking down scar tissue and promoting faster healing.

Deep tissue massage is beneficial for anyone experiencing chronic muscle tension, stiffness, or pain, whether it’s due to poor posture, overuse injuries, or specific medical conditions like fibromyalgia or arthritis. Athletes, individuals recovering from injuries, and those with physically demanding jobs often find deep tissue massage particularly helpful.

Massaging the scalp activates its abundance of nerve endings, prompting the release of serotonin and dopamine, which are known to elevate mood and promote well-being. Additionally, this type of massage helps to lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, fostering relaxation and a calmer state of mind. The gentle, repetitive scalp massage also triggers the body’s relaxation response, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.

Scalp massage is generally safe for most people. However, individuals with certain scalp conditions like severe dandruff, psoriasis, or open wounds should avoid vigorous massage or consult a healthcare professional first. Additionally, those with scalp injuries, infections, or recent surgeries should avoid scalp massage until they have fully healed.

massage therapy

Certain massage therapy types offered in our Portsmouth, NH, wellness center are not recommended for specific health conditions. For instance, conditions involving blood clotting or the medication used to treat them may disqualify you from receiving most massage treatments. Before getting a massage, it is advisable to have yourself cleared by a physician.

Yes. Though they share many similarities, the strokes, and force used for deep tissue massage reach deeper into the muscle than Swedish massage. The purpose of Swedish massage is primarily for relaxation, while on the other hand, deep tissue massage addresses specific musculoskeletal conditions, such as tightness, knots, and sports injuries.

Yes, lymphatic drainage massage can be very beneficial for post-operative recovery. After surgery, the body may experience swelling and inflammation, slowing the healing process. Lymphatic drainage massage is a gentle and non-invasive massage technique that can help reduce swelling and inflammation, improve circulation, and speed up healing.

Massage can be a safe and beneficial way to manage the physical and emotional changes that occur during pregnancy. However, it is crucial, for both the mother and the developing baby, to choose safe massage techniques. Here are some types of massage therapy that are generally considered safe for expectant mothers:

  • Prenatal Massage
  • Swedish Massage
  • Craniosacral Therapy
  • Aromatherapy Massage

It is important to consult with your healthcare provider before receiving any massage therapy during pregnancy. A licensed massage therapist who is experienced in working with pregnant clients can also modify the massage techniques to accommodate the pregnancy and ensure safety during the massage.

Cupping therapy, along with Aroma Boost, Muscle Releaf, Himalayan Hot Stone, and Uplift therapies are offered as massage enhancements. To learn more about cupping therapy in our Portsmouth massage center, call us at (603) 373-8780.

Deep tissue massage is generally safe for most people. However, some people may experience soreness or bruising after the massage, especially if they are new to deep tissue massage or have particularly sensitive muscles. It is important to communicate with your massage therapist throughout the session to ensure that the pressure is not causing excessive pain or discomfort.

There are several massage therapy techniques that can be effective in addressing muscle strains, including:

  • Swedish massage: This gentle and relaxing massage uses long strokes, kneading, and circular movements to promote relaxation, reduce muscle tension, and increase blood flow to the affected area.
  • Deep tissue massage: This type of massage targets the deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue using slow, firm pressure to release tension and relieve pain.
  • Trigger point therapy: This technique focuses on specific areas of muscle tightness and uses direct pressure and stretching to release the knots and relieve pain.
  • Myofascial release: This type of massage targets the fascia, a thin layer of connective tissue that covers muscles and organs, using gentle, sustained pressure to release tension and improve mobility.
  • Sports Massage: Sports massage can be an effective therapy for addressing muscle strains, especially for athletes or individuals engaged in physical activities. Sports massage is designed to help improve athletic performance, prevent injury, and aid in recovery. This type of massage can target specific muscle groups and uses a combination of techniques such as deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, and stretching to help alleviate muscle tension, reduce pain, and promote healing.

It’s important to note that the specific massage therapy technique used will depend on the severity of the muscle strain and the client’s individual needs. It’s always best to consult a licensed massage therapist to determine the most effective approach for your situation.

Myofascial release is a therapeutic technique focusing on the fascia. This dense, tough connective tissue surrounds and supports muscles, bones, and organs throughout the body. Myofascial release aims to alleviate pain and restore mobility by releasing tension and tightness in the myofascial tissues.

Here are key points about myofascial release:

  1. Fascia: Fascia constitutes a three-dimensional network of connective tissue that traverses the entire body, offering support and structural integrity to muscles and other internal components.
  2. Technique: During myofascial release, a therapist applies gentle, sustained pressure and stretching to the myofascial tissues to release restrictions and adhesions. This can be done through various techniques, including manual manipulation, massage, and tools.
  3. Trigger Points: Myofascial release often targets trigger points or areas of tightness and sensitivity in the fascia. The therapist aims to improve the flexibility and function of the affected muscles and surrounding tissues by addressing these trigger points.
  4. Indications: Myofascial release is frequently employed to tackle persistent pain, muscle tightness, and restrictions in range of motion. It is often practiced in rehabilitation and sports medicine settings.
  5. Whole-Body Approach: Myofascial release is often viewed as a whole-body approach. Even though the therapist may focus on a specific area of concern, they consider the interconnectedness of the fascial system and how restrictions in one area can affect other parts of the body.
  6. Self-Myofascial Release: In addition to therapist-administered myofascial release, individuals can also perform self-myofascial release using tools like foam rollers, massage balls, or other devices to target areas of tension.

Myofascial release is a versatile technique that can be integrated into various therapeutic approaches, including physical therapy, chiropractic care, and massage therapy. It’s important to note that while many people find myofascial release beneficial, its effectiveness can vary from person to person, and it may not be suitable for certain medical conditions. Consult a physician to ensure that this massage is a fit for your medical condition.

There are specific areas of the body that should be avoided during this type of massage. Firstly, refrain from massaging regions experiencing active inflammation or infection. Secondly, avoid areas with recent bruising or trauma. Thirdly, exercise caution around fragile areas, such as the ribs. Lastly, be mindful of highly sensitive regions, like the face or neck, and any other areas where this technique might cause considerable pain.

Scalp massage helps hair growth by increasing blood flow to the follicles. Increasing blood circulation to hair follicles can deliver essential nutrients to facilitate hair growth. Once nutrients are delivered to hair follicles, this can lead to thicker and faster-growing hair.

No, scalp massage is unlikely to cause hair loss. Instead, scalp massage is beneficial to hair health. Here are the reasons why:

  • Gentle scalp massage promotes blood glow: A gentle scalp massage can facilitate improved blood circulation to the scalp, delivering nutrients to hair follicles and contributing to healthy hair growth.
  • Gentle scalp massage stimulates without causing damage: Proper scalp massage techniques focus on applying pressure to the scalp itself instead of pulling on hair strands. 

 

It is crucial to use gentle strokes and avoid aggressive pressure to ensure scalp massage does not cause hair loss. Massage therapists, such as those at Massage and Wellness Collective, use proper techniques to maximize scalp massage’s benefits and prevent issues such as hair loss.

Handheld scalp massagers exfoliate your scalp. However, its effectiveness in promoting hair growth and providing the same benefits as scalp massages still needs to be backed up by research. Though electric massagers may be more effective than manual ones, scalp massages provided by qualified massage therapists are recommended to ensure you enjoy their benefits.

Though Swedish and deep tissue massage provide many benefits, their methods and purposes differ.

  • Swedish Massage: Swedish massage involves long and gentler strokes to promote relaxation and stress relief. 
  • Deep Tissue Massage: Slow strokes with direct pressure applied across the grain of muscles are involved in deep tissue massages. It helps break up and eliminate scar tissue and treat muscle knots.

People may experience discomfort when the massage therapist targets areas with knots. If the pain is too much, recipients may let their therapist know. Moreover, it is not unusual to experience soreness for a few days after a deep tissue massage. A cold pad wrapped in a cloth, towel, or heating pad may help relieve soreness.

Scalp Massage Portsmouth

Wellness Therapies in Portsmouth, NH FAQ

  • Yes. Healing touch therapy and Reiki treatments in our wellness center use different hand placements.
  • Reiki treatments and healing touch benefit your physical, emotional, and mental health, but healing touch therapy does not require attunement, unlike Reiki treatments.
  • Call us at (603) 373-8780 or visit our wellness page to learn more about our massage and wellness services.

Yes! Reflexology is a popular alternative medicine method that is known to be effective in providing pain relief, especially for arthritis.

Reflexology also provides other benefits, such as:

  • Minimizes or eliminates toxin buildup in various parts of your body
  • It aids in relaxation and eases anxiety
  • General pain relief
  • It helps increase energy levels

Acupressure is generally safe. However, we don’t recommend acupressure massage in our Portsmouth, NH, center if you have the following health conditions:

    • If you are pregnant
    • If you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis
    • Any bone disease that may worsen if physically manipulated
    • If the treatment area has cancer that has metastasized to the bones

If you don’t have these health conditions, acupressure is OK for all ages.

  • Yes! We offer the uplift cold stone facial therapy as a massage enhancement or add-on to any of the various massage and wellness therapies offered in our massage and wellness center.
  • Our uplift cold stone facial therapy has many health benefits, such as sinus and allergy relief, improved skin, and reduced facial muscle tension.

You should get a series of lymphatic drainage sessions every three months. The frequency of lymphatic drainage massage can vary based on individual needs, health conditions, and the purpose of the massage. In general, here are some considerations for how often one might receive lymphatic drainage massage:

  1.   Post-Surgery or Medical Procedure: If you’re undergoing surgery or a medical procedure that may result in lymphedema or fluid retention, your healthcare provider or therapist may recommend more frequent sessions in the immediate postoperative period. This might involve multiple sessions per week initially, with a decrease in frequency as the condition improves.
  2.   Chronic Conditions: For individuals with chronic conditions such as lymphedema, lymphatic drainage massage may be part of an ongoing management plan. In such cases, sessions may be scheduled regularly, once or twice weekly, to help manage symptoms.
  3.   Detoxification and Wellness: Some individuals receive lymphatic drainage massage for detoxification or general wellness. In these cases, sessions might be less frequent, such as once a month or on an as-needed basis.
  4.   Post-Injury or Swelling: If you’re experiencing localized swelling or edema due to an injury, a series of lymphatic drainage sessions might be recommended, followed by maintenance sessions as needed.
  5.   Preventive Care: People interested in promoting overall lymphatic health and preventing fluid retention may choose to receive lymphatic drainage massage periodically, such as every few weeks or once a month.

It’s crucial to seek guidance from a certified physician or a licensed massage therapist to establish the suitable frequency for lymphatic drainage massage tailored to your individual health status and objectives. They can evaluate your specific requirements and offer personalized recommendations.

Remember that individual responses to massage vary, and the recommended frequency might be modified based on your response to the treatment and any alterations in your health status. Always communicate openly with your healthcare provider or therapist about your health history and any concerns you may have. 

Yes, massage can be effective in reducing edema. Massage has the potential to effectively reduce edema, which is the build-up of excess fluid in the body’s tissues. It aids in enhancing circulation, promoting lymphatic drainage, and mitigating swelling. Here are some ways in which massage may contribute to reducing edema: 

  • Improved Circulation: Massage can stimulate blood flow in the affected area. This increased circulation helps to remove excess fluid and waste products from the tissues.
  •     Elevate: Lift the swollen body part above the heart level several times daily. Occasionally, elevating the swollen area while sleeping can be beneficial.
  •     Massage: Gently stroke the affected area toward the heart using firm pressure that is not painful. This technique may assist in moving fluid out of the affected area.
  • Lymphatic Drainage: The lymphatic system is essential for maintaining fluid balance in the body. Utilizing massage techniques like manual lymphatic drainage can stimulate this system, assisting in the elimination of excess fluid and diminishing edema.
  • Relaxation of Muscles: Massage can help relax tense muscles and improve the flexibility of soft tissues. This relaxation may reduce the pressure on blood vessels and allow fluids to move more freely. 
  • Joint Mobilization: Gentle joint movements performed during massage can assist in moving fluids out of the affected area and promote a more balanced distribution of fluids in the body. 

However, it’s important to note that not all types of massage are suitable for individuals with edema, and the specific approach should be tailored to the individual’s condition and the cause of the edema. Moreover, it is essential to seek guidance from a healthcare professional, such as a physician or a reputed massage therapist, to ensure that the application of massage is suitable and safe for your particular circumstances. 

In cases where edema persists or becomes severe, addressing the root cause is crucial, and incorporating massage therapy into a comprehensive treatment plan alongside other medical interventions may be beneficial. 

A massage session typically lasts for one hour (60 minutes). However, depending on your medical condition, your health needs, or if you choose to combine your massage treatments with other modalities, massage sessions could last up to 90 minutes. To learn more about specific massage durations, visit our pricing page or call us at (603) 373-8780.

 After a lymphatic drainage massage, extending the healing process beyond our office is essential. Here are some tips to optimize your health and promote ongoing healing:

  1.   Hydration is Key: Since massages can dehydrate, ensure you replenish your body by drinking 2-4 glasses of water after the massage. Adequate hydration helps flush your lymphatic system and supports kidney function in eliminating toxins.
  2.   Choose Comfortable Attire: Opt for loose clothing post-massage to promote optimal lymph flow. This allows your lymph vessels to circulate effectively.
  3.   Mind Your Diet: Avoid alcohol for the first 24 hours and steer clear of caffeinated drinks. A light diet with raw, whole foods is recommended to enhance lymphatic function and facilitate waste removal. Low-sodium diets contribute to a healthy and functional lymphatic system.
  4.   Consider Light Exercise: Light exercises like walking may be suggested depending on your recovery stage. Activities promoting muscle contraction and lymph flow can aid in the healing process.
  5.   Prioritize Rest: After the massage, you may feel relaxed and tired. Listen to your body; allow yourself to rest and avoid strenuous activities. This regulates blood pressure and promotes healing by giving your muscles the relaxation they need. 
Reiki treatments

Facials & waxing in Portsmouth, NH FAQ

facial-waxing

Yes! We offer hydrating facials in our wellness center in Portsmouth, NH. These are just some of our comprehensive facial and waxing services, which can help elevate your beauty routine.

Yes! We provide the ultimate in pampering and grooming with the perfect combination of expert skincare techniques and meticulous hair removal to reveal a polished and radiant you from head to toe. Among our facials, we offer our:

  • Signature Facial
  • Anti-aging facial
  • Restorative Sensitive Skin Facial
  • Brightening Complexion Facial
  • Hydrating Dry Skin Facial
  • Gentlemen’s Facial
  • Teen Facial
  • Back Facial
  • Dermaplane

 

We also offer our Glow and Go Express, designed for people with busy lifestyles:

  • Radiance Boost Facial
  • Brightening Eyes Treatment
  • Firming Neck Treatment

Yes! We also offer waxing services designed for specific parts of your body. You may visit this page to learn more: https://massageandwellnesscollective.com/facials-waxing/

For most people, the best frequency for taking hydrating facials is every three to four weeks to effectively maintain the benefits and support healthy, moisturized skin. However, please consider your specific skin type and concerns to give you the most personalized recommendation. Contact us and share information about your current skincare routine, how often you experience skin dryness, and if you have any other skin concerns you want to address.

Gotu kola (Centella asiatica) is an herbaceous plant widely used in South and Southeast Asian cuisine. In Ayurveda, it is considered a powerful herb with tremendous health benefits.

Gotu kola contains compounds that are greatly beneficial to skin health, particularly compounds that promote collagen production. These compounds are crucial in many skin care products. Gotu kola is also central to our anti-aging facial treatments at Massage and Wellness Collective.

Yes, in most cases, anti-aging facial treatments will require multiple visits to achieve the best results. The number of sessions depends on several factors, such as the severity of skin concerns and individual skin type and response.

Yes! Full-body waxing offers the convenience of removing hair from the entire body in one session. However, before considering full-body waxing, we recommend starting with smaller areas first to assess your pain tolerance and skin’s reaction. Please visit our facials and waxing page to explore pricing for our waxing services.

Yes! Teenage skin goes through many changes due to hormonal fluctuations. Issues specific to teens, such as acne, oily skin, and blackheads, are common concerns. We offer teen facials for clients aged 17 and under to address these issues.

A back facial is a skincare treatment that addresses various skin concerns on the back, such as acne, whiteheads, blackheads, and dryness. It involves cleansing, purifying, and exfoliating the skin on the back. Back facials can benefit people who suffer from back acne or encounter challenges in caring for the skin on their back.

Please avoid the following activities a few days before your appointment to ensure the best results from your facial treatment:

  • Exfoliating: Exfoliating your skin too close to your facial can cause irritation and sensitivity.
  • Using Harsh Products: Avoid using harsh or harmful chemicals or ingredients that irritate your skin, such as alcohol or fragrances.
  • Excessive Sun Exposure: Sun exposure can make your skin more sensitive and prone to irritation.
  • Tanning: Whether natural or artificial, tanning can damage your skin and expose you to problems like acne and hyperpigmentation.

After a facial, you may experience some temporary side effects, such as:

  • Redness: Your skin may appear slightly reddish or flushed immediately after your facial. This is normal and should subside within a few hours.
  • Tightness: You may feel a slight tightness or dryness in your skin. This is often a sign that the treatment has effectively exfoliated and cleansed your pores.
  • Sensitivity: Your skin may be more sensitive when exposed to sunlight or other environmental factors for a short period.

However, you may also experience the following benefits:

  • Improved skin texture: Your skin will feel softer and smoother.
  • Reduced appearance of pores: Your pores may appear smaller and less noticeable.
  • Increased hydration: Your skin will be better hydrated, creating a plump and radiant appearance.
  • Reduced acne:  Regular facials can help reduce breakouts and improve skin clarity for those with acne-prone skin.

Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive skin resurfacing treatment that uses tiny abrasive crystals to exfoliate the top layer of skin. This process helps remove dead skin cells, reduce the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles, and improve skin texture. Microdermabrasion can also be effective for treating acne scars and hyperpigmentation.

Yes, we offer a facial treatments specifically tailored to men’s skin needs. Men typically have oilier and thicker skin than women, and they may also experience issues like ingrown hairs and razor burns. Our facial treatments can help address these concerns and promote healthy, radiant skin.

While not mandatory, using the recommended skincare products after a facial can help prolong the benefits of facial treatments and maintain healthy skin. Our skin therapists can provide personalized product recommendations based on your specific skin type, conditions, and concerns. These products may include cleansers, moisturizers, serums, and sunscreens.

Our soothing and hydrating facial is specifically designed for individuals with sensitive skin. This treatment uses gentle, calming ingredients to soothe redness, reduce inflammation, and restore moisture balance. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating experience without irritation.

Yes, we offer professional eyebrow waxing services to help you achieve the perfect eyebrow shape and definition. Our technicians will carefully shape your brows to complement your facial features and enhance your beauty.

The duration of a facial session can vary depending on the specific treatment chosen. However, on average, our facials last between 60 and 90 minutes. This allows ample time for a thorough cleansing, exfoliation, mask application, and massage, ensuring you feel refreshed and rejuvenated.

A deep cleansing facial is essential for removing impurities, clearing clogged pores, and promoting a healthy complexion. This treatment involves thorough cleansing, exfoliation, and extraction to remove excess oil, dead skin cells, and blackheads. The result is clearer, smoother, and more radiant skin.

We frequently offer packages and promotions to provide our clients with exceptional value. These may include discounts on multiple treatments, complimentary services, or special offers for new clients. Check our website or contact our spa for the latest promotions.

Massage Services & Pricing in Portsmouth, NH FAQ

Yes, Massage and Wellness Collective offers a variety of discounts and packages, including:

  • Monthly Massage Memberships
  • Packages

Massage and Wellness Collective requires 24 hours’ notice for cancellations. If you cancel your appointment with less than 24 hours notice, you will be charged a full cancellation fee.

You can book an appointment at Massage and Wellness Collective online or by calling (603) 373-8780.

Yes, Senior Level Therapists cost $10 more per session than regular therapists for all massage styles.