Questions
The things people ask before their first session. If yours isn't here, just call and ask — we'd rather answer it than have you guess.
Do I need to know what's wrong before I book?
No. Describing it in your own words — "my neck has been tight since March" — is enough to start. We spend the first ten minutes of the session working out the rest.
What should I wear?
Loose, comfortable clothing you can move in. Tui na is often done fully clothed; where oil work is involved we use towels. Either way you decide what you're comfortable with, and we work around it.
Is this the same as a regular remedial massage?
There is overlap, but the reasoning is different. Remedial massage generally treats the tissue that hurts. Taoist bodywork treats the line that tissue sits on, which is why we may work somewhere that seems unrelated to your complaint.
Will it hurt?
It should feel firm and deliberate, not sharp. Some points are tender when they're first pressed and that fades within a few seconds. Tell us at any moment and the pressure changes — there is no benefit at all in enduring it silently.
How long is a session?
Sixty or ninety minutes depending on the treatment, plus a few minutes either side for intake and getting up slowly. We don't shorten sessions to fit more in.
Will cupping or gua sha leave marks?
Yes, and it's worth planning around. Cupping leaves circular marks and gua sha leaves reddening; both usually fade within three to seven days. If you have a wedding or a beach holiday coming up, tell us and we'll leave them out.
How will I feel afterwards?
Most people feel loose and a little slowed down for the rest of the day. Some feel mildly sore the next morning, similar to after exercise. If you feel wrecked for two days, the session was too much and we'll adjust next time.
How often should I come?
For something long-standing, weekly for a few weeks then spacing out. For general maintenance, monthly. We'll tell you what we think after the first session — there is no package to sign up to.
Can I book online?
No — and that's deliberate. Call or send a message and we'll find a time. It takes a minute and it means we already know something about you before you arrive.
What does it cost?
Sessions start at $70 for a short treatment and $120 for a standard hour; the price for each treatment is on its own page. Payment is at the end of the session by card or cash. We are not currently set up for health-fund rebates.
What if I need to cancel?
Please give us at least 24 hours' notice so the slot can go to someone on the waiting list. Cancellations inside 24 hours are charged at half the session fee; if you are genuinely unwell, tell us and we will waive it. Turning up sick helps nobody.
Still not sure? Ask the question directly — we answer these ourselves, not through a booking system.
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