Frequently Asked Questions
You may be new to aromatherapy massage, so here is some information that might answer some of your questions. If you cannot find the answer here, please do not hesitate to get in touch and I will be happy to chat it through with you.
Where will the treatment take place?
The treatment will take place in an oak-framed garden room attached to my cottage, located in Selsley, near Stroud. It is a light, spacious and airy room with beautiful panoramic views. The full address will be provided at the time of booking. On-site parking is available and there is plenty of parking on Broad St.
If you arrive early, I would kindly ask that you wait in your car until 5 minutes before your appointment as I may be with another client.
How do I make an appointment?
To make an appointment you can either use the Contact form located on the Contact Me page or alternatively, please call me on 07813 697671 or email, suzanne@cottagegardenaromatherapy.co.uk.
Please ensure you check your Junk email folder when corresponding by email.
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​Upon booking your first treatment, I will arrange to contact you by phone to chat about your requirements and to ask a series of questions around your general health, medication, any conditions of concern and general lifestyle. This is to understand if you have any contraindications which may prevent the treatment going ahead and to tailor the treatment and oils to best suit your requirements. All information provided via the consultation is treated with the upmost confidentiality.
What should I expect during my appointment?
When you arrive for your appointment, I will welcome you into the garden room and then re-confirm the treatment, what you can expect and agree the suggested oil blend and any other products being used where necessary. I will then give you some privacy for you to remove any necessary clothing and get onto the massage couch, covering yourself with the prepared sheets and coverings. Once you are on the couch, covered and comfortable, I will come in and start the treatment.
Occasionally during a massage treatment I will need to gently lift or move your arm or leg briefly to aid the massage. I may also need you to turn over on the couch to continue the massage on your front or back. Please be assured that your modesty will be protected at all times.
Once the treatment is over, I will leave you for a few moments and then give you some water and leave you to get dressed in private.
How might I feel after the treatment?
Depending on the aims of the treatment, you should either feel relaxed or energised and invigorated. Any tightness and tension should feel reduced, and aches and pains improved.
You may also notice that your sleep patterns improve.
Your body will start detoxifying after the treatment, which can cause some people to experience an increase in their symptoms initially - headaches, fatigue, increase in bowel movement or need to urinate more frequently. This is not unusual, especially if you are new to aromatherapy. These symptoms should not last for more than 24-48 hours after treatment.
It is important that you drink plenty of water after the treatment to allow your body to flush out the toxins, and where possible avoid vigorous activity, eat healthy light meals, avoid caffeine and alcohol for 6-12 hours. To make the most of the oils on the skin, it is also advisable to avoid showering for 6-12 hours.
Essential oils can also make your skin more sensitive to UV and sunlight so it is a good idea to avoid sunbeds or sunbathing for 6-12 hours after application of the oils.
Any specific safety data relating to essential oils will be advised at the time of your consultation or treatment.
What should I wear?
Depending on which treatment you have, you are likely to have to remove some of your clothing so make sure whatever you wear is comfortable and easy to take off and put back on. For safety and hygiene reasons, underwear should be kept on during the treatment.
Please be aware that you may have a little bit of residue from the massage oils on your skin that may transfer to your clothes once you put them back on after the treatment.
How should I prepare for my treatment?
Please make sure you have showered or bathed ahead of your treatment. Not only is this critical for health and hygiene, but also allows any products and oils used during the treatment to be absorbed and work to their fullest.
Try to eat light meals ahead of your appointment and avoid alcohol.
Does aromatherapy massage hurt?
Aromatherapy massage is gentle and comforting, and the pressure can be adjusted to your preference and should not hurt or cause any discomfort. I will ask you during the treatment if the pressure is acceptable.
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The massage includes Swedish style effleurage (slow flowing movements), petrissage (kneading), lymphatic drainage, and acupressure techniques to rejuvenate and encourage new blood flow to your muscles and body systems to improve your physical and mental health and wellbeing from a holistic perspective.
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Physical restrictions should be discussed before any treatment begins so that the massage can be adapted to avoid discomfort.
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Are there any restrictions to having treatment?
There may be some medical conditions that can affect treatment, but these can be discussed during the consultation and an approach agreed that works around these where necessary.
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If you have a fever, diarrhoea, vomiting, a contagious/infectious disease, pregnant or are under the influence of recreational drugs or alcohol the treatment will not be able to take place, and cancellation charges may apply.
Please note: For pregnant women, there are very strict rules around use of aromatherapy oils. To ensure the upmost protection, I would suggest you locate an aromatherapist who is fully qualified in delivering aromatherapy massage for pregnant women.
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What is your cancellation policy?
Please allow 48 hours notice for cancellation.
I appreciate that on occasions you might have to cancel your appointment at late notice, however, I would appreciate notification as soon as possible.
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For late arrivals, the full treatment fee will be charged even if the treatment cannot be completed in full.
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How do I pay for my treatment?
I accept payment by cash or bank transfer directly after the treatment. I am currently unable to accept payment by credit card.
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How do I buy a Treatment Gift Voucher?
If you would like to purchase a Cottage Garden Aromatherapy Treatment Gift Voucher, please either call me on 07813 697671 or email: suzanne@cottagegardenaromatherapy.co.uk. The minimum purchase value is £10. Payment is via cash or bank transfer. Upon receipt of the payment, I can either post the voucher to you, or directly to the recipient. Postage is by 1st class post and is an extra £2 cost.
You are welcome to collect the gift voucher or alternatively, the voucher can be emailed to you for you to print off. Treatment vouchers do not form part of any other offer.
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What are your qualifications?
Level 3 Diploma in Massage Therapy and Clinical Aromatherapy accredited by ITEC.
I am also a professional member of the Complementary Therapies Association (CThA).​​