At the Café of Life, our massage therapists utilize a wide variety of therapeutic techniques, improving health and well-being through the hands-on manipulations of muscles. Our massage therapists work with the doctors, focusing on specific regions of the patient’s body to help restore proper motion and function. All of our therapists have experience working with injuries and chronic pain.
Approximately 37 million Americans get a therapeutic massage at least once a year. Clinical research has proved that massages can help relieve lower back pain, reduce anxiety and depression, and support the immune system.
For those who have never received a massage, the process can seem a bit intimidating. To help answer any issues you might have, we’ve made a list of the top asked questions here at the Café of Life!
Do I have to get naked?
Absolutely not. For a massage to be most effective, the patient should be as comfortable and relaxed as possible. While some patients disrobe completely, many also leave their underwear on. All of our therapists are trained in the art of draping, which involves adjusting the sheet so that only the part of your body being worked on is exposed.
How much does massage cost?
Here at the Café of Life, we charge $45 for a 25-minute massage, $90 for a 50-minute massage, and $135 for an 80-minute massage. This does not include gratuity.
How much should I tip?
Just like you would at a restaurant, the standard for tipping generally lies around 20% for excellent service and 15% for good service. Often in a clinical setting tips are discouraged or unaccepted, however the Café of Life offers non-clinical passive therapy – therefore tips are accepted. For other tip insight, visit Yelp’s user commentary on massage tip prices for San Francisco at http://www.yelp.com/topic/san-francisco-how-much-is-a-good-tip-for-a-massage.
Can I eat or drink beforehand?
The massage therapists at the Café of Life recommend that you do not eat or drink 30 minutes before your massage. If you do eat, stick to small healthy snacks that are easy on the stomach. Directly following the massage, your therapist will encourage you to drink LOTS of water. A massage can often release the toxins trapped in your muscles, and drinking water flushes your system out. If you do not drink water, the toxins will sink right back into your muscles and you will undo the therapist’s work.
Are massages and massage rooms sanitary?
We pride ourselves on our cleanliness and healthy atmosphere. For every massage, the therapists will clean and set the table with new sheets. Our therapists are expertly trained in their delivery – they will not breathe in your face, they abstain from any perfumes or body sprays, and they sanitize their hands and arms for each massage. Return the favor by being clean and odorless yourself!
How often do I need a massage?
If you are in acute pain – patients that have suffered car accidents or other severe traumas – you make need a massage weekly. Our doctors will assess your situation and make their recommendations. For those patients not in acute pain, a single massage can provide many health benefits by lowering your stress and anxiety or just exercising your sense of relaxation.
What are the main types of massage?
We offer Swedish massage, known for its relaxation and energy, deep tissue massage, typically for muscle damage from an injury, sports massage for sports-related injuries, and pre and post-natal massage for expectant mothers.
What should I do after the massage?
After a massage, patients typically feel very relaxed and calm. Going from a calm, quiet environment into a crazy grocery store is probably not in your best interest. Take fifteen to twenty minutes and relax. Our lobby offers comfortable chairs, an assortment of teas, and water. If you have an appointment or somewhere to go, just remember to take many deep breaths and drink LOTS of water. Massages are great for the body and soul, so call and book yourself one today! The Café of Life is open for massage 9:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m., and can be reached at (415) 389-1098.
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