Here is exactly how it goes.
Nothing about a first session should be a surprise. Below is what to wear, what happens when you arrive, how long sessions run and what to do afterwards.
Before you come in
What to wear
Comfortable clothing. For table based work you undress only to the level you are personally comfortable with, and draping is always used. For movement based sessions, a supportive activewear top with good range of movement and something comfortable around the waist works best.
What to bring
Nothing beyond the intake form. Referral letters or notes from a GP, physio or exercise physiologist are welcome, and never required.
The intake form
Book once and the induction form arrives by email automatically. It covers health history, current treatment from other practitioners, allergies and sensitivities, relevant conditions, consent and an emergency contact.
Reminders
If you book more than two days ahead you get a short check-in text two days before, asking what the session is for and anything I should know, plus an email reminder the day before.
In the session
Every appointment starts with a conversation, first visit or fiftieth. I will ask what today is about, how you are feeling and what you want out of it. I do not assume today is a repeat of last time, because a hard gym session yesterday can change the plan entirely.
On a first visit you come in, sit down and we talk. Some simple movement testing is usually woven into that, sometimes seated, sometimes on the table, rather than run as a separate exam. From there treatment might be table based, or more active, including functional cupping with movement.
Draping. Draping is always managed to your comfort using towels, consistent with ANTA standards. During face-up work you may be handed a towel to hold yourself if a lower region such as the ribs is being treated, so modesty stays in place throughout. This is non-negotiable in every session, whatever we are treating.
Session lengths
30 minutes
Usually for returning clients working on something specific. Focused, in and out, good for a maintenance top-up or an unexpected flare up.
45 to 60 minutes
The most common length, and it fits around lunch breaks and school pickups. A lot gets covered when the session stays focused.
90 minutes
A different pace rather than simply more treatment. More conversation through the session and room to work unhurried.
I do not stretch a session to fill the booked time. If everything is covered before the clock runs out, that is what you are charged for.
Afterwards
Stay upright and moving
Try to stay gently active straight after rather than sitting or slouching for a long stretch. It reinforces the movement work we just did.
Training the same day
Fine, but start lighter than usual. Tissue may be moving more freely while the firing sequence has not caught up, so a form focused session beats a max effort one.
Water
Not essential, but rehydrating is never a bad idea after lying still for a while.
Feeling stiff tomorrow
Normal, and not a sign anything went wrong. Tissue that has been mobilised can settle back slightly overnight. Gentle movement and light stretching in the morning clears it quickly.
Ready when you are.
Booking takes a minute and the form comes to you.