Rays of Hope Massage
Rays of Hope Massage
Rays of Hope Massage

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I've never had a massage before. What should I wear during it?
A: You will be discreetly draped throughout your massage with only the body part being massaged exposed. Massage works best on bear skin so most people prefer to wear only their underwear. However, some people are more comfortable wearing shorts or boxers and some wear a tee-shirt also. Whatever you choose is up to you based on your level of comfort and relaxation.

Q: Do I need to arrive early for my appointment?
A: You need to arrive 10-15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time to fill out the preliminary paper work, unless you choose to fill them out before you arrive (forms are available here). Arriving on time is essential so you do not lose any time from your massage.

Q: What are the benefits of massage?
A: Massage reduces stress, increases circulation, increases the immune system, and reduces muscle pain to name just a few benefits. (See home page for more benefits.)

Q: Can everyone receive a massage?
A: Massage is beneficial to most people however there are some people who should not receive a massage unless they have spoken to their doctor first. Those people have diseases that should not be stimulated though massage. People prone to blood clots should not receive a massage and people with diabetes who have limited sensation in their feet should not receive massage without first consulting their doctor. People with cancer receiving radiation or chemotherapy should first consult their doctor also. If you have any doubts about your health and whether massage will be beneficial to you, ask your doctor to be sure.

Q: Will I have bruises afterwards?
A: Most people do not have bruises after a massage given by Jodie. However, it is possible, for those who have sensitive skin, to have a bruise or two. Jodie tries not to go beyond someone’s pain tolerance so it is very important to communicate with her, especially during trigger point therapy. Trigger point therapy can be uncomfortable, but shouldn’t be beyond your pain tolerance.

Q: Will I have sore muscles after my massage?
A: It is important to drink plenty of water after a massage to flush toxins out of the body that were released from the muscles by the massage. Failure to do this could cause muscle ache. During your massage, Jodie will ask if the pressure is alright. If she is going too deep or hits a tender point, by all means, tell her and she will adjust the pressure. You should not have sore muscles after a massage by her if you follow these simple suggestions.

Q: How often should I get a massage?
A: It is recommended that you receive a massage about once a month to remain healthy. However, if a certain medical condition is being treated, you may need to come in once or twice per week, twice a month, or whatever you and Jodie – together – feel is appropriate for your particular needs.

Q: Which type of massage is best for me?
A: Swedish massage refers to the type of strokes used in the massage and most massages utilize these strokes. A Relaxation Massage uses just these strokes and the end result is just that – Relaxation. However, when someone comes to Jodie for a Relaxation Massage, she asks if they want her to work on any problem areas that may be found during the massage by combining Therapeutic Massage with Swedish massage. Most people choose to have the combination.

Therapeutic massage is for those people who are coming for a specific problem such as TMJ, carpel tunnel syndrome, sciatica, etc. Jodie may work the whole body but concentrate on those specific areas. Sometimes, she will only work the problem area. That will be discussed at the start of your appointment.

Hot Stone Massage utilizes heated stones to provide relaxation, increased detoxification, and relief from muscular tension, stress, and fatigue. It is excellent for relieving arthritis pain.

If you are not sure what would be best for you, ask Jodie and together you can decide which way is best.

Q: Do you accept insurance?
A: At this point in time, Rays of Hope Massage is not accepting any insurance.

Q: What types of payment do you accept?
A: Jodie is happy to accept cash, personal checks, and major credit cards.


Rays of Hope Massage is open by appointment only. Call Jodie at 716-697-0667 to schedule your appointment.