What are the Mantra Massage hours of operation?

Massage appointments are available the following days: Tuesday through Friday from 9:00am-9:00pm, Saturday & Sunday from 9:00am-6:00pm. To schedule an appointment, call 512.960.4660 or book online.

If you walk-in or need to book an appointment for the same day, all means available will be made to accommodate your request.

What can I expect during my first appointment?

Once you have made your first appointment, within 24 hours prior to your appointment you will receive an online intake form. You may fill this out at your leisure and, once saved, it will automatically be saved for your therapist.

Before your session begins, your therapist will have a conversation with you about what to expect from your first session, what your needs are and what we can reasonably accomplish in our first hour, and possibly moving forward. We will then make a plan together on how to proceed. Please be prepared to block an extra ½ hour for your first session.

What if I must cancel my appointment?

All cancellations must be made 24 hours prior to the scheduled appointment to avoid being charged. If you cancel within 24 hours of your appointment, you will be charged you 50% of the cost of the session for your therapist's time.

What is "draping" and is it optional?

Draping is how the massage therapist will uncover parts of the body throughout the massage. If you are receiving work on your back, for example, your back will be uncovered down to your hips and when the work is done the area will be recovered. For work on your leg, the leg will be exposed, worked on, covered...and the pattern continues. Draping is not optional. All sessions are strictly professional, and clients will be appropriately covered for the comfort and wellbeing of both client and massage therapist.

What forms of payment do you accept?

Studio Mantra accepts Cash, Visa, Mastercard, AMEX & Discover.​

What exactly are the benefits of receiving massage or bodywork treatments?

Useful for all of the conditions listed below and more, massage can:

• Alleviate low-back pain and improve range of motion.

• Assist with shorter, easier labor for expectant mothers and shorten maternity hospital stays.

• Ease medication dependence.

• Enhance immunity by stimulating lymph flow—the body's natural defense system.

• Exercise and stretch weak, tight, or atrophied muscles.

• Help athletes of any level prepare for, and recover from, strenuous workouts.

• Improve the condition of the body's largest organ—the skin.

• Increase joint flexibility.

• Lessen depression and anxiety.

• Promote tissue regeneration, reducing scar tissue and stretch marks.

• Pump oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs, improvingcirculation.

• Reduce postsurgery adhesions and swelling.

• Reduce spasms and cramping.

• Relax and soften injured, tired, and overused muscles.

• Release endorphins—amino acids that work as the body's natural painkiller.

What issues does massage address?

There's no denying the power of bodywork. Regardless of the adjectives we assign to it (pampering, rejuvenating, therapeutic) or the reasons we seek it out (a luxurious treat, stress relief, pain management), massage therapy can be a powerful ally in your healthcare regimen. Experts estimate that upwards of ninety percent of disease is stress related. And perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress. While eliminating anxiety and pressure altogether in this fast-paced world may be idealistic, massage can, without a doubt, help manage stress. This translates into:

• Decreased anxiety.

• Enhanced sleep quality.

• Greater energy.

• Improved concentration.

• Increased circulation.

• Reduced fatigue.

Furthermore, clients often report a sense of perspective and clarity after receiving a massage. The emotional balance bodywork provides can often be just as vital and valuable as the more tangible physical benefits. In response to massage, specific physiological and chemical changes cascade throughout the body, with profound effects. Research shows that with massage:

• Arthritis sufferers note fewer aches and less stiffness and pain.

• Asthmatic children show better pulmonary function and increased peak air flow.

• Burn injury patients report reduced pain, itching, and anxiety.

• High blood pressure patients demonstrate lower diastolic blood pressure, anxiety, and stress hormones.

• Premenstrual syndrome sufferers have decreased water retention and cramping.

• Preterm infants have improved weight gain.

Research continues to show the enormous benefits of touch—which range from treating chronic diseases, neurological disorders, and injuries, to alleviating the tensions of modern lifestyles. Consequently, the medical community is actively embracing bodywork, and massage is becoming an integral part of hospice care and neonatal intensive care units. Many hospitals are also incorporating on-site massage practitioners and even spas to treat postsurgery or pain patients as part of the recovery process.

Does it benefit me to get a massage more often?

Getting a massage can do you a world of good. And getting massage frequently can do even more. This is the beauty of bodywork. Taking part in this form of regularly scheduled self-care can play a huge part in how healthy you'll be and how youthful you'll remain with each passing year. Budgeting time and money for bodywork at consistent intervals is truly an investment in your health. And remember: just because massage feels like a pampering treat doesn't mean it is any less therapeutic. Consider massage appointments a necessary piece of your health and wellness plan, and work with your practitioner to establish a treatment schedule that best meets your needs.

What is Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT)?

This modality uses soft-tissue manipulation to balance the body's central nervous system with the musculoskeletal system. The goal is to relieve pain and dysfunction by removing the underlying cause. NMT releases spasms that cause referred pain and restores postural alignment and flexibility.

What is Myofascial Release?

When trauma or injury surface, the fascia, a thin connective tissue covering the entire body, becomes restricted tightening the muscles it envelops. This tightening prevents the muscle belly from being able to expand or contract naturally. This work aims to lengthen the fascia again, facilitating relief through release.

What is Trigger Point Therapy?

Triggers are areas of tenderness located within a muscle. Through direct steady pressure, triggers are de-activated and muscles are re-educated into a pain-free pattern.

What is CranioSacral Therapy (CST)?

CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on approach that releases tensions deep in the body to relieve pain and dysfunction and improve whole-body health and performance. It was pioneered and developed by Osteopathic Physician John E. Upledger after years of clinical testing and research at Michigan State University where he served as professor of biomechanics. Using a soft touch which is generally no greater than 5 grams – about the weight of a nickel – practitioners release restrictions in the soft tissues that surround the central nervous system. CST is increasingly used as a preventive health measure for its ability to bolster resistance to disease, and it's effective for a wide range of medical problems associated with pain and dysfunction.

How does CranioSacral Therapy Work?

Few structures have as much influence over the body’s ability to function properly as the brain and spinal cord that make up the central nervous system. And, the central nervous system is heavily influenced by the craniosacral system – the membranes and fluid that surround, protect and nourish the brain and spinal cord. Every day your body endures stresses and strains that it must work to compensate for. Unfortunately, these changes often cause body tissues to tighten and distort the craniosacral system. These distortions can then cause tension to form around the brain and spinal cord resulting in restrictions. This can create a barrier to the healthy performance of the central nervous system, and potentially every other system it interacts with. Fortunately, such restrictions can be detected and corrected using simple methods of touch. With a light touch, the CST practitioner uses his or her hands to evaluate the craniosacral system by gently feeling various locations of the body to test for the ease of motion and rhythm of the cerebrospinal fluid pulsing around the brain and spinal cord. Soft-touch techniques are then used to release restrictions in any tissues influencing the craniosacral system. By normalizing the environment around the brain and spinal cord and enhancing the body’s ability to self-correct, CranioSacral Therapy alleviates a wide variety of dysfunctions, from chronic pain and sports injuries to stroke and neurological impairment.

What conditions does Craniosacral therapy address?

• Migraines and Headaches
• Chronic Neck and Back Pain
• Autism
• Stress and Tension-Related Disorders
• Motor-Coordination Impairments
• Infant and Childhood Disorders
• Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries
• Chronic Fatigue
• Fibromyalgia
• TMJ Syndrome
• Scoliosis
• Central Nervous System Disorders
• Learning Disabilities
• ADD/ADHD
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Orthopedic Problems

Is there any condition for which CST shouldn't be used?

There are certain situations where application of CST would not be recommended. These include conditions where a variation and/or slight increase in intracranial pressure would cause instability. Acute aneurysm, cerebral hemorrhage or other preexisting severe bleeding disorders are examples of conditions that could be affected by small intracranial pressure changes.

How many CranioSacral Therapy sessions will I need?

Response to CST varies from individual to individual and condition to condition. Your response is uniquely your own and can’t be compared to anyone else’s — even those cases that may appear to be similar to your own. The number of sessions needed varies widely — from just one up to three or more a week over the course of several weeks.

What is Cupping?

By creating suction and negative pressure, massage cupping is used to soften tight muscles and tone attachments, loosen adhesions and lift connective tissue, bring hydration and blood flow to body tissues, and drain excess fluids and toxins by opening lymphatic pathways.

Where did cupping begin?

Historically cupping was used to drain toxins from snakebites and skin lesions, in cupping’s origin hollowed out animal horns were used to suck poisons out of the patients skin. As medical skills increased the therapeutic applications of cupping were applied to an increasing number of health conditions. In time the cups originally crafted from horns evolved to bamboo, then glass and silicone. Records have proven that ancient cultures of China, and Greece regarded cupping as a medical practice as early as 28 A.D. Over the years, the incredible power of the cupping suction have been used for many aches. ills and ailments. The powerful stimulation and increase in circulation has made a powerful difference in healing these and many other physical issues. ​

• Tightened or painful muscles

• Sprains or strains

• Edema

• Fibromyalgia

• Pinched nerves

• Lung congestion

• Menstrual irregularities

• Gastrointestinal disorders

• Cough

• Asthma

What does cupping do?

Cupping is known for its ability to break up localized stagnation. Cupping is reputed to: ​

• Drain excess fluids and toxins​

• Loosen adhesion

• Lift connective tissue

• Enhance circulation in stagnant musculature and fascia

• Stimulate the peripheral nervous system

In Chinese medical theory, the stagnation can be of just about any type: blood, toxins, qi or dampness. The suction created by cupping draws stagnant toxins, heat, energy or fluid out of where it has accumulated deep within the tissues, and brings it to the body’s surface. Once close to the skin off accumulated toxins can more easily be eliminated via the body’s lymph system.

What does cupping help?

The following conditions benefit from the elimination of stagnation, and the elimination of toxins. ​​

• Stagnated Blood - Injuries, adhesion, menstrual irregularities

• Accumulated Toxins – Gastrointestinal disorders, rigid muscles.​

• Stagnate Qi or energy flow – Muscular pain, dysmenorrhea, pinched nerves

• Stagnation of the bodies fluids – Lung congestion, asthma, lactation dysfunction, edema, cellulite ​

Adhesion can be released either through the parking method or through moving the cup over the body. Congestion and stagnation are pulled up and are removed from their source. Allowing for the increased flow of fresh blood, energy and fluids necessary to expedite healing. ​

Vigorous circling movements with the cups on the thighs and gluteus maximus can help ease certain types of sciatica (along with breaking up adhesion and cellulite) in the area. ​Stationary cupping on the Back points can assist with the expansion of the chest and help relieve chest congestion, coughing and asthma.

Do you use glass cups and fire?

No. Although traditionally used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), we do not use glass cups and fire. We use the latest in silicone cups that are far more comfortable for the client and there is no risk of singed hair!

What is Lymphatic Massage?

Lymphatic massage, also called lymphatic drainage or manual lymph drainage (MLD), is a technique developed in Germany originally to treat Lymphedema. MLD is a gentle massage which is intended to encourage the natural drainage of the lymph, which carries waste products away from the tissues back toward the heart. The lymph system depends on intrinsic contractions of the smooth muscle cells in the walls of lymph vessels (peristalsis) and the movement of skeletal muscles to propel lymph through the vessels to lymph nodes and then beyond the lymph nodes to the lymph ducts which return lymph to the cardiovascular system.

How does Lymphatic Massage work if it is such a light therapy?

Manual lymph drainage uses a specific amount of pressure (less than 9 ounces per square inch or about 4 kPa) and rhythmic circular movements to stimulate lymph flow. By performing lymphatic drainage massage correctly, we can stimulate the opening of the initial lymphatic and increase the volume of lymph flow by as much as 20 times. But if we push too hard, we collapse the initial lymphatic, diminishing the lymph flow. Excessive pressure can even break the filaments that hold the initial lymphatic in place. This is one reason that deep styles of massage are contraindicated in areas of edema. Luckily if deep pressure has broken any filaments, they usually reform within 24 hours.

What is Reiki?

Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. It is administered by "laying on hands" and is based on the idea that an unseen "life force energy" flows through us and is what causes us to be alive. If one's "life force energy" is low, then we are more likely to get sick or feel stress, and if it is high, we are more capable of being happy and healthy. The word Reiki is made of two Japanese words - Rei which means "God's Wisdom or the Higher Power" and Ki which is "life force energy". So Reiki is actually "spiritually guided life force energy." A treatment feels like a wonderful glowing radiance that flows through and around you. Reiki treats the whole person including body, emotions, mind and spirit creating many beneficial effects that include relaxation and feelings of peace, security and wellbeing. Many have reported miraculous results. Reiki is a simple, natural and safe method of spiritual healing and self-improvement that everyone can use. It has been effective in helping virtually every known illness and malady and always creates a beneficial effect. It also works in conjunction with all other medical or therapeutic techniques to relieve side effects and promote recovery.

What is Prenatal/Postpartum Massage?

Pregnancy Massage can be performed from the moment you learn you are pregnant, through the laboring process and after your baby is born. It can not only provide relaxation or relief from pain during pregnancy but can prepare you physically and psychologically for labor and the birth process. In fact, massage while pregnant can result in a shorter labor. During your first trimester, prenatal massage can be performed, unless otherwise indicated while lying on your stomach and on your back, with proper elevation under one hip. Upon reaching your second trimester, you will be massaged side-laying or semi-supine position. ​​

Should I start massage right after I become pregnant?

Yes. Early on in your pregnancy, your hormones are running rampant. Massage can help alleviate headaches and morning sickness and improve your posture for the impending strain on weight bearing joints. ​​

When can I stop getting massaged while lying flat on my back?

While massage can be performed while lying flat on your back during your first trimester, it is always done with slight elevation of your right hip to reduce pressure on your vena cava, and it is not recommended beyond 22 weeks.

Is it true I can only lie on one side while getting a massage?

No. Unless you have been told by your Obstetrician or Midwife that you are not allowed to lie on one side in particular, you can receive massage while lying on each side. This allows the therapist to address both legs, hip joints and shoulder girdles, providing a balanced massage.

I can only sit/sleep with by upper body propped up. Can you still massage me?

Yes. For later in the pregnancy, and for those experiencing acid reflux, we use specially made cushions to prop up your upper body and release the strain and weight on your legs. Please let us know when making your appointment if you would like this option.

What are the Benefits of Prenatal/Postpartum Massage?

Mantra Massage provides pregnant and laboring women, as well as new mothers, relaxing, nurturing and healing massage therapy and bodywork. The therapeutic benefits are many!

For Pregnant Women:

• Relaxation and stress reduction

• Help alleviate morning sickness/headaches

• Increase blood & lymphatic circulation

• Reduce strain on weight bearing joints

• Reduce leg swelling/edema

• Relieve pain from variscosities

• Enhance sleep

• Enhance immune system

• Relief of muscle spasms & cramps

• Physical & psychological preparation for labor/shorter labor

• Improved posture

• Prepare pelvic muscles for birth process ​

For New Mothers:

• Facilitate recovery

• Alleviate muscle strain of giving birth

• Rehabilitates skin & muscle tissue

• Realign pelvic musculature

• Facilitate healing from cesarean section

• Relax & reduce the stress of caring for a newborn

What services do you currently offer?

Mantra Massage currently offers massage and bodywork services as well as acupunture and skincare. Each service will follow strict safety guidelines for protection of both client and therapist.

What is CBD?

CBD (Cannabidiol) is a non-intoxicating part of the cannabis plant. Hemp-based CBD massage oil is a particularly effective tool a therapist can use to relieve chronic pain and reduce inflammation, stress and depression.

Will adding on CBD Therapy make me high?

Absolutely not. CBD is a non-intoxicating component of the hemp plant. It has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years and has shown, in both clinical studies and anecdotal accounts, to relax the body and mind. Additionally, there have not been any negative side-effects reported to adding CBD oil to a massage.

When should I not get a massage?

Massage, or deep tissue massage, is not recommended for any of the following reasons,

• Pregnant women should check with their doctor first if they are considering getting a massage. Very deep massage is NEVER recommended for pregnant women.
• Infectious skin disease, rash, or open wounds
• Currently suffering from mild-severe fever or any COVID-19 symptoms
• Immediately after surgery
• Immediately after chemotherapy or radiation, unless recommended by your doctor
• Individuals with osteoporosis should consult their doctor before getting a massage
• Prone to blood clots. There is a risk of blood clots being dislodged. If you have heart disease, check with your doctor before having a massage
• Massage should not be done directly over bruises, inflamed skin, unhealed wounds, tumors, abdominal hernia, or areas of recent fractures.

This is my first massage, what do I do?

Relax! Your therapist will talk with you before the massage starts about what your goals for the session are. This is your chance to ask any questions you have or to make any requests about music or areas of the body to avoid. After your consultation, the therapist will step out of the room and allow you to undress and get onto the table. You can undress as much as you are comfortable, usually down to the underwear (bras off for ladies), or full nude. Professional draping is always practiced. The privacy and comfort of the client on the table is always top priority.

Can I work out after receiving a massage?

For healthy individuals it will be perfectly safe for you to work out the same day as your massage as long as you give yourself a good amount of recovery time and stay hydrated. We would not suggest going to max out on weights or do a super hard run or to attempt anything that wouldn't be "normal" for you...but the best advice would be to simply use your best judgement. If something feels wrong, don't do it.

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is one of the oldest healing practices in the world and has been practiced in China and other Asian countries for thousands of years. An acupuncture treatment consists of needle insertion along acupuncture meridians at energetic junctions called acupuncture points. Manual manipulation of the needles, or of the points (via Tuina or Shiatsu – forms of Asian Bodywork), is common during a treatment as acupuncture is most easily understood as “stimulation” of the Qi (vital energy) coursing through these meridians.

“Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) comprises a system of health care which originated in China more than 5,000 years ago and has been offered in the United States for more than 150 years. TCM is a comprehensive system for the assessment and treatment of acute and chronic disorders, as well as preventative health care and maintenance.” - The World Health Organization

What is Acupuncture used for?

Commonly treated conditions:

• Headaches
• Digestive Disorders

- Indigestion

- Diarrhea

- Constipation

- IBS

- Bloating

- Gas

- Acid Reflux

- Nausea

- Morning Sickness

• Gynecological Disorders

- PMS

- Irregular periods

- Menopausal symptoms

• Muscle Pain and Strain
• Pain – back, neck, shoulder, knee
• Sciatica
• Arthritis
• Fatigue
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Allergies

According to The World Health Organization, there are more than 100 different kinds of diseases and illnesses that can be treated effectively by using acupuncture.

What should I expect from my first treatment?

With your initial visit, we ask that you arrive 15-20 minutes early to allow ample time to fill out our extensive medical intake forms. This will be followed with a verbal consultation where a licensed acupuncturist will ask you about your health condition, lifestyle, medical history, and behaviors that may contribute to your condition.

• Eat a light meal or snack prior to your treatment (within a couple of hours) – avoid heavy meals, fasting or long periods since last meal or snack
• Avoid alcohol or recreational drugs prior to the treatment
• Wear loose fitting clothing, if possible, especially pant legs and sleeves although sheets are available
• 90 minutes will be allocated for initial treatments; subsequent visits will be 60 minutes

What does it feel like?

People experience acupuncture differently, but most feel no discomfort, or minimal discomfort, as the needles are inserted. Some people feel energized and some relaxed. But acupuncture is a “stimulation” of the Qi (energy) in our bodies, so you want to feel something. Some people report a slight twinge at the needle site, some feel warmth, some experience referral sensations (i.e. a needle is inserted in the patient’s foot and they feel it in their shoulder); aching and itching at the needle sites are also commonly reported sensations.

The best way to find out is to receive a treatment!

Are the needles sterilized?

A new set of sterilized, disposable, stainless steel needles (taken from individually sealed packages) are used with each patient. Treatment sites will be swabbed with alcohol before needle insertion to avoid adverse effects or possible infection.

How often should I come in for treatments?

The number of sessions depends on the goals of the treatment and again is individualized. Generally speaking acute conditions take fewer treatments than more chronic, complex conditions, where two-three treatments per week may be required; with follow-up treatments throughout the year needed for maintenance.

It’s important to note that people respond differently to acupuncture and the healing process will vary greatly depending on each patient’s response.

[FYI – Although acupuncture can be used for acute disorders, it is a preventative medicine, first and foremost, and is not a quick fix for complex disorders as it utilizes the body’s own natural healing capacities, and treatment is usuallly done in a short series of 3 to 10 treatments.

It does require patient compliance and a commitment to making changes. To give acupuncture, or Traditional Chinese Medicine (TMC), a real chance I would suggest that a patient commit to at least 3 treatments within a 10 day period in order to truly explore the more profound effects of the medicine.

Are there any negative side effects?

Occasionally one might experience the following:

• Bruising or bleeding from the site of the acupuncture needle.
• Soreness or muscle aches.
• Aggravation of symptoms for first 24-48 hours after treatment, then a greater period of relief. This is more common when treating pain syndromes.
• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy after treatments.

MOST OF THE TIME PEOPLE ARE PLEASANTLY SURPRISED AT HOW RELAXED THEY FEEL AFTER AN ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENT! MANY PEOPLE REPORT FEELING “BUZZED,” OR “EUPHORIC” AFTERWARDS. PEOPLE ARE ALSO OFTEN SURPRISED WHEN STUBBORN CONDITIONS START TO IMPROVE AFTER JUST A FEW SESSIONS.