Please Note That The Questions And Answers On This Page Apply To The World Geographic Region Of Brampton Ontario Canada And May Be Different Than The Health Care Regulations Or Laws In Your Region Of The World

1. What's the difference between an Aromatherapy Massage Practitioner and a Registered Massage Therapist - R.M.T. ?
2. Can you issue a receipt for my private extended health insurance benefit plan?
3. What is aromatherapy massage?
4. How is aromatherapy administered?
5. How do essential oils work?
6. How do I know the quality of the organic essential oil I am purchasing?
7. Where can I purchase a good brand of organic essential oil?
8. Can I take essential oils internally?
9. What is the difference between a synthetic ( adulterated ) essential oil and a pure essential oil ( unadulterated )?
10. What does therapeutic grade essential oil mean?
11. What can I expect during my first visit?
12. How long will a massage therapy session last?
13. What are the benefits of aromatherapy massage?
14. What are the benefits of hot stone massage therapy?
15. Will I need to remove all of my clothing?
16. What parts of my body will be massaged?
17. Should I expect any muscle soreness or discomfort after a massage therapy treatment?
18. How will I feel after the session is over?
19. How often should I receive a massage therapy treatment?
20. Are there any contraindications to aromatherapy massage?
21. Are there any contraindications to hot stone massage therapy?
22. Does OHIP cover massage therapy?
23. How do I schedule an appointment?
24. What is your cancellation policy?
25. What if I am late for an appointment?
26. What methods of payment do you accept?

Question - What's the difference between an Aromatherapy Massage Practitioner and a Registered Massage Therapist - RMT
Answer - First of all it is helpful to understand that there are approximately 80 different modalities of natural health care therapies. An Aromatherapy Massage Practitioner and Registered Massage Therapy Practitioner ( RMT ) are only 2 types of nearly 80 available natural health care modalities and both methods involve ways of working with the body and have some overlapping benefits. Both are indeed very different and distinct in approach. Aromatherapists are extensively trained in the therapeutic use of over 50 essential oils for use during a therapy treatment and other methods of administration. Aromatherapy is a natural health care based massage therapy which works to improve a client's physical, psychological and spiritual wellness. It benefits muscular aches and pains, stress and feelings associated with anxiety, depression, focus, concentration, and much more. For a list of many health conditions that may be of benefit by aromatherapy please visit the services page of this website for an in depth explanation

The modality of a Registered Massage Therapist ( R.M.T. ) is similar to an Aromatherapist in that it incorporates the physical level of the body systems and has relaxing effects as well. However, a Registered Massage Therapist ( RMT ) treatment typically does not involve the use of therapeutic essential oils, unless the Registered Massage Therapist ( RMT ) has proper training in this therapeutic modality. Registered Massage Therapists ( RMT's ) are trained to work with physical ailments including more serious injuries such as athletic injuries, fractures, frozen shoulder and more, and are more clinical and reactive by nature. A Certified Aromatherapist Practitioner offers more of a natural health care approach with emphasis on illness prevention and long term wellness.

Question - Can you issue a receipt for my private extended health insurance benefit plan?
Answer - The short answer is no. The long answer is important to understand. The natural health care services that I offer are genuine and recognized by reputable organizations such as the Natural Health Practitioners of Canada Association ( www.nhpcanada.org ). I received my training from the Mississauga School of Aromatherapy and Canadian Holistic Therapists Training School. In addition I have completed studies in Botany, Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology at Sheridan College and I am a Certified Aromatherapist, Certified Hot Stone Massage Practitioner and Level II Reiki Practitioner.

In spite of my extensive credentials, my natural health care services are typically not covered by private extended health insurance plans because I do not have R.M.T. status so therefore I am unable to issue receipts for private extended health insurance benefit plan purposes. Associations such as Natural Health Practitioners of Canada are working to gain acceptance of natural health care practices into the main stream health care system however it is an ongoing effort as of now.

My practice is more than a clinical occupation, it is an art form of natural health care healing massage, with the purest of intention and consideration, to encourage you to achieve long-term peace and soulful wellness through proactive natural health care massage services.

If you require therapy treatments to address a serious deep rooted physical ailment, it may be better to find a qualified R.M.T. who has more intensive training in clinical medical massage techniques. Additionally, an RMT offering Aromatherapy should have completed an additional 300 hour program through an accredited educational institution recognized by the Natural Health Practitioners of Canada Association previously mentioned above.

Proper administration of this type of therapy treatment is important because pure essence oils need to be applied with care and understanding. If you are searching for a very soothing and healing massage in a warm, inviting, relaxing and unhurried atmosphere, and do not require a receipt for your private extended health insurance benefit plan then I look forward to your call. Alternatively, there is an R.M.T. at the Yoga Loft and Holistic Centre that may be able to accommadate you. Check the Yoga Loft and Holistic Centre website holistic center description page for details.

Question - What is aromatherapy massage?
Answer - Aromatherapy is the natural health care therapeutic use of aromas ( essential oils ). It is an art and science of holistic healing using different aromas and properties derived from highly concentrated extracts of herbs, flowers, shrubs and other plants and plant material. These oils contain properties that have been found to be therapeutic when inhaled or applied to the skin blended with carrier oil. There are also many other ways to obtain benefits from these organic oils.

Question - How is aromatherapy administered?
Answer - Aromatherapy can be administered in many ways such as direct inhalation, steam inhalation, in a bath, in a diffuser or vaporizer, hot, warm and cool compress, and in a massage blend. One would attain the most benefits from receiving a therapy treatment using organic pure essence oils as you are not only inhaling the aromas, but also receiving the benefits of the organic oils through the skin.

Question - How do essential oils work?
Answer - Please visit the how essential oils work section of the services page for a thorough explanation.

Question - How do I know the quality of the organic essential oil I am purchasing?
Answer - Always seek out organic oils that are packaged in dark glass bottles. The country of origin, Latin name, precautions and expiry date should be listed on the label, if it isn't then you should question whether or not the product is pure. Some products will claim to be aromatherapy based, however, be sure to read the ingredients of the product carefully. If the word fragrance appears, again you should question the pureness, it is probably something with a synthetic fragrance. Good quality aromatherapy products will list the oils in their Latin name, country of origin, and expiry date on the label.

Question - Where can I purchase a good brand of organic essential oil?
Answer - Please consult with your aromatherapist as he/she may carry organic oils or provide you with recommended sources.

Question - Can I take essential oils internally?
Answer - Never take essential oils internally. Always consult with a trained aromatherapist.

Question - What is the difference between a synthetic ( adulterated ) essential oil and a pure essential oil ( unadulterated )?
Answer - Synthetic oil has man made unnatural chemicals added to it whereas a pure essential remains in its pure state without any harmful additives.

Question - What does therapeutic grade essential oil mean?
Answer - Therapeutic grade is the highest grade of oils produced and they are carefully processed in such a way that the molecules are still intact and alive. This means that they have intelligence and will interact with your own energy field in a way that is optimal for you. The same blend on two different people will often smell quite differently due to this ability of the oils to be uniquely activated for each person.

Question - What can I expect during my first visit?
Answer - During your first visit for an aromatherapy massage session you will first be asked to complete a brief client health assessment form. This will help to determine your current health conditions or any medical concerns that need to be addressed before the therapy treatment begins. Once the health assessment form is completed, it will be reviewed between you and your therapist. You may be asked the reason for your visit and if there are any main areas of concern you would like to focus on during the therapy treatment session. From there, a custom oil blend will be put together to match your particular health care needs. The atmosphere will always be made to be most comfortable and safe for you. The therapist will then leave the room for a few minutes while allowing you to prepare yourself for the aromatherapy session. During your visit for stone massage, the same will apply. You will complete a health assessment form and the therapist will explain to you the procedures of stone massage. The stones will be tested at all times to ensure that the heat level is comfortable for you!!

Question - How long will a massage therapy session last?
Answer - All sessions last a minimum of 1 hour assuming you have arrived for your appointment on schedule. If you arrived late and there are previously scheduled appointments with other clients then your therapy treatment session will be adjusted accordingly, however you will still be responsible for the full fee rate.

Question - What are the benefits of aromatherapy massage?
Answer - For a list of some benefits aromatherapy can provide please visit the aromatherapy massage section of the services page of this website.

Question - What are the benefits of hot stone massage therapy?
Answer - For a list of some benefits that this type of therapy can provide for you please visit the hot stone massage therapy section of the services page of this website. Also, classic massage therapy treatments are commonly understood however stone massage therapy is not as commonly known. Watch this stone massage therapy video for a short demonstration to learn more about the amazing natural health care and relaxation benefits of this ancient luxurious massage therapy.

Question - Will I need to remove all of my clothing?
Answer - Your comfort is always of the utmost importance during a therapy treatment and you will be respected at all times. You will be asked to remove only the clothing you feel comfortable with removing. Traditionally, to receive the most benefit from the healing properties of pure essence oils, it is done best directly on the skin. You will be draped and only the area being worked on will be uncovered. You will always be given complete privacy, dressing and undressing, before and after each treatment. Removing all jewelry is optional as sometimes it may take away from receiving the full benefit of the treatment. Bringing a hair tie is always a good idea for anyone with long hair.

Question - What parts of my body will be massaged?
Answer - This is a completely professional massage and you can be reassured that your therapist will treat you with the utmost respect. If you have any particular areas of concern that needs attention, it is important that you address them at the start of your session or during the review of your assessment form. The therapist will do their best to target areas of most discomfort and tightness. Full body massage includes hands, feet, legs, arms, back, chest, neck, shoulders, face and scalp.

Question - Should I expect any muscle soreness or discomfort after a massage therapy treatment?
Answer - It is not unusual to experience mild soreness, especially if you are new to massage therapy, however any soreness is usually very mild and passes within a day or two. Deep pressure and tissue work will stimulate blood flow and circulation throughout the body systems which assists in releasing toxins from the body and assists all internal organs to function at their best.

Question - How will I feel after the session is over?
Answer - Normally most clients come out of a session feeling completely relaxed, refreshed, rejuvenated and recharged, ready to face the day again. It is recommended that you drink plenty of water after a treatment session to help flush out toxins which have been released. It is suggested that you arrange some time after your appointment so that you will have a quiet space to reflect and be with your peaceful state. *Note: pure essence oil continues to work for up to 7 days following your treatment. It is recommended that you wait at least a day before taking a shower so as not to wash away the oil from your skin. It is recommended that you wait until the day after your treatment before taking a shower in order to prolong the healing benefits of the massage therapy treatment. Some practitioners may also recommend taking an epsom salt or sea salt bath with a few drops of oil which may also assist to further relax the muscles, clear the mind and alleviate any stresses.

Question - How often should I receive a massage therapy treatment?
Answer - Generally, once or twice a month is beneficial, however depending on the individual and their particular health conditions, more frequent visits may be suggested.

Question - Are there any contraindications to aromatherapy massage?
Answer - Yes. Although aromatherapy is a soothing and relaxing massage therapy, caution needs to be taken with certain health conditions. Among these would include clients with the following conditions: following post operative states and major surgeries, heart conditions such as heart attack, angina, stroke, varicose veins, infectious diseases, cancer, inflamed joints, fractures that are recent, pregnancy up to 3 months. Please consult your therapist if you have any of the following conditions so you can come up with the best possible treatment plan for your particular case. Read the contraindications to aromatherapy massage section for a complete list.

Question - Are there any contraindications to hot stone massage therapy?
Answer - Yes. Anyone with the following conditions should not have hot stone massage; pregnant up to 4 months, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart conditions, ulcers, open wounds, skin lesions, skin disease, anyone on medication that may react to heat, anyone with metal implants, cancer, Parkinsons Disease, edema, anyone on medications such as anti-inflammatory, muscle relaxers, anti-coagulants and acute injuries or inflammation. If you are unsure if this is the right therapy for you please consult with your therapist. See the contraindications to hot stone massage for a complete details.

Question - Does OHIP cover massage therapy?
Answer - No. Unfortunately, massage therapy is not covered by OHIP.

Question - How do I schedule an appointment?
Answer - You can arrange an appointment by phone or by email. To guarantee that your appointment request is received, arranging by telephone is best. If requesting an appointment via email please provide a telephone number where you can be reached.

Question - What is your cancellation policy?
Answer - If you are required to change your previously scheduled appointment time due to unforseen circumstances then please call me as soon as you possibly can to rearrange your appointment.

Question - What if I am late for an appointment?
Answer - Arriving early guarantees your full treatment time. If you are late we cannot guarantee that you will receive the full time of the treatment scheduled as we may have other appointments or committments to tend to. You will be billed full rate for the treatment and the previously agreed upon appointment time must be adhered to as a courtesy for everyone involved.