Frequently Asked Questions

A woman receiving a medical or dental examination or treatment from a healthcare professional wearing gloves.
    • While we do not bill insurance directly, we can provide you with an itemized superbill upon request. You may submit this to your insurance provider for potential out-of-network reimbursement.

    • We do accept all major credit cards, HSA, and FSA accounts.

  • Think of your lymphatic system like your body's waste removal crew — it picks up excess fluid, toxins, and inflammatory byproducts that your bloodstream leaves behind. When it gets sluggish, fluid pools, tissue gets puffy, and inflammation builds up. That's where a lot of bloating and that "heavy" feeling comes from.

    • Removes waste, toxins, and excess fluid through urine, feces, and sweat.

    • Supports your immune system by fighting off infections

    • Reduces swelling and keeps tissues balanced

    When the lymphatic system is working well, your body feels lighter, increased range of motion, and more energized.

    Why get a lymphatic massage and how will I feel afterward?

    • Promotes reduction of swelling, bloating, puffiness

    • Accelerates recovery after surgery or injury

    • Boosts the immune system and helps the body clear waste

    • Promotes relaxation

    How will I feel after?

    • Sense of deep relaxation

    • Increased urination

    • reduced heaviness/ pressure

    • mild sleepiness

    • subtle sinus or digestive changes

    What you should not feel:

    • A properly performed MLD session should never be painful or aggressive

    How long should a lymphatic treatment be? How often should it be received?

    Duration can be anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes and frequency varies by the individual and treatment goal. Consult with your therapist.

    Even occasional sessions can help your body feel lighter and relaxed. I can help tailor a plan that works best for you.

  • What is Intraoral Massage?

    A specialized technique in which gentle massage is performed inside the mouth, using gloves, to work on the muscles of the jaw and face, and sometimes the neck.

    What is Buccal Massage?

    BUCCAL (Boo-kal) refers to the cheek area of the face, specifically the space between the inside of your cheeks and your teeth.

    In this massage we work inside and outside the mouth, to address tension in your scalp, face, neck, upper chest and shoulders,  We improve circulation, reduce puffiness, and lift facial muscles. Buccal is used in facial sculpting or holistic beauty therapies.

    What do these techniques do?

    Help release tension, improve mobility, and decrease discomfort caused by issues such as TMJ (jaw pain), teeth clenching/grinding, headaches, or stress.

    How do you feel after the session?

    My clients report that their mouth feels loose/ relaxed, with less stiffness and little to no clicking or popping. They say it relieves jaw tightness, reduces facial and neck pain, and even improves overall relaxation.

  • What is cupping?

    Cupping uses gentle suction to lift the skin and underlying tissues, promoting improved circulation and the free flow of fluids. My clients describe it as a light, pulling massage that leaves them feeling relaxed and refreshed. Cupping is a safe, non-invasive way to restore balance, reduce discomfort, and support your body’s natural healing process.

    What are the benefits of cupping?

    Eases muscle tension – helps tight or sore areas feel looser and more flexible.

    • Supports natural detox – encourages lymphatic flow to reduce swelling and water retention.

    • Improves circulation – brings fresh blood and nutrients to the skin, muscles, and tissues.

    • Promotes relaxation – calms the nervous system and helps release stress.

    • Aids recovery – can support healing after exercise, injury, or surgery.

    I've seen people with cupping marks. Will it hurt? How long will they stay?

    Great questions! Cupping can leave circular marks where the cups are placed. These marks/ bruises (without blunt force) are simply areas where blood and fluids have moved closer to the surface of the skin. For some people, the marks fade within 3–7 days; however, they can sometimes last up to two weeks or longer, depending on factors such as skin type, circulation, and the degree of tension used or stagnation in the area. They are painless and part of the body’s natural healing response.

    I see your facial may include cupping. Will I have marks on my face?

    Another good question! Facial cupping differs significantly from body cupping. The cups used on the face are much smaller and applied with gentle, gliding movements instead of leaving them in place. Because of this, it’s unlikely you’ll have any marks or discoloration afterward. Most clients notice their skin looks refreshed, lifted, and more radiant.

    Is cupping safe for everyone?

    Cupping is a safe and natural therapy for most people. However, there are a few cases where it may not be the right fit. Cupping is not recommended on areas with broken or irritated skin, during pregnancy on the belly or lower back, or for people with certain health conditions such as bleeding disorders, very fragile veins, or serious heart, kidney, or liver concerns.

    If you’re unsure, please let me know—I’m happy to review your health history and help you determine if cupping is a suitable option for you. Your safety and comfort come first.

    How often should I receive a Cupping Massage?

     The frequency of cupping therapy varies depending on your health goals and the type of cups I use for you. 

    • General Wellness: 1-3 times/ month

    • Acute Pain or Injury: 1-2 times per week for a short period (ex., 2 -3 weeks) then maintenance

    • Chronic Pain: Weekly

    • Muscle Recovery: 1-2 times per month after strenuous exercise

    *It's important to note that these are general recommendations.

    Other factors could affect the actual frequency I recommend.

  • Relaxing the chest muscles after breast augmentation or mastectomy is a crucial aspect of the recovery process. Following surgery, many patients experience chest muscle tightness, axillary cording (armpit), and other discomfort, primarily due to tissue stretching and manipulation during the procedure. Addressing this muscle tension not only decreases pain but also promotes faster healing and better overall outcomes.

    There are several effective techniques for relaxing chest muscles after breast augmentation:

    • Gentle Movements and Stretching: Simple exercises like arm circles and wall stretches help maintain flexibility and ease muscle tension.

    • Heat Therapy: Applying warm compresses can improve blood flow and reduce muscle stiffness.

    • Massage Therapy: Gentle massages can enhance circulation and alleviate tightness.

    • Deep Breathing Exercises: These exercises can help relax the chest muscles and reduce stress.

Diagram of the human lymphatic system showing lymph nodes, lymph vessels, spleen, thymus gland, thoracic duct, and cisterna chyli.
A person lying face-up on a massage table, receiving cupping therapy with four small glass cups on their back. Their head is turned downward with braided hair.