Importance of being in informed consumer.


 

Massage is not tangible. It is not something you can pick up and examine before making a decision to purchase it. When making a decision to find a new massage therapist or try massage for the first time there are some important things to keep in mind so you are making an informed decision.

 

- Is the massage length the actual amount of time you will receive "hands-on" service?

Some places include the consultation with your therapist, time to undress and redress in appointment. The result is a 45-50 minute massage for a 1 hour appointment.

At balance & peace, I give you what you are paying for. If you are on time, you get a full hour massage when you are purchasing a one hour massage. Please keep in mind the total time you spend at my office for your appointment will be slightly longer than your service time to allow time to consult with you, and the time for you to undress and redress.

 

- Offering gratuity can often be confusing.

Some places automatically add a service charge of 20% to the listed rate for the service that includes a gratuity for the therapist, although they don’t usually get the full 20%.

Gratuity as defined by Webster’s as "something given voluntarily". I would prefer that you do what you feel comfortable with. Gratuity is not expected at balance & peace. It ’s more important to me that you return and make referrals. Paying for your massage should not be uncomfortable or stressful.

 

-Draping policy.

For most massage services undressing to the level of your comfort is expected. The type of drape used during your massage can vary from a towel, I have even heard of 2 hand towels being given, to a sheet, exposing only the area being massage. (FYI, Florida only requires a massage therapist to have a draping policy, it does not actually require a client to be draped.)

At balance & peace the draping policy is to use a sheet, for your comfort and mine. balance and peace does NOT offer "naked massage". In addition you are also provided with a nice blanket and table warmer for your comfort. (your body temperature will drop during the massage.)

 

-Environments of spas, clinics and private practices vary widely.

Usually in a spa you are provided with a robe and slippers that you change into in a locker room and then go to individual treatment rooms. These places may offer amenities such as a Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and showers as well as a lounge area.  In a clinical setting it can be quite the opposite, almost sterile. The massage room in a clinical setting is about function, getting the massage done, not comfort.

While it is not a $3 million facility or exclusive massage establishment, balance & peace offers a clean, comfortable and relaxing environment.

 

-Spa packages.

At this time we are not able to provide spa packages.