Frequently Asked Questions

Your first visit begins with a confidential consultation, during which we will discuss your medical history, current health conditions, expectations and reasons for seeking treatment. This allows me to tailor your session to your individual needs and ensure that the most appropriate treatment is chosen for you.

Once we have completed the consultation, I will leave the room to give you privacy and time to prepare for your treatment.

Throughout the session, I work with a combination of the information gathered during our consultation, my professional training and a holistic approach to your wellbeing. Please feel free to let me know at any time if you would like any adjustments to pressure, positioning, temperature or music, so that your experience is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

At the end of your treatment, I will leave the room to allow you to dress in private.

Before you leave, I will offer you a glass of filtered water and we will have the opportunity to discuss your treatment, answer any questions you may have and provide any relevant aftercare advice.

Your comfort, privacy and dignity are always my priority and my intention is to provide a calm, safe and nurturing space where you can relax, restore and reconnect.

Comfort is key. I recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing that allows you to feel relaxed before and after your treatment.

For treatments such as Fascia Release Therapy, you will remain fully clothed, so soft, stretchy clothing such as leggings, tracksuit bottoms, t-shirts or comfortable layers are ideal.

For massage treatments, you will be given privacy to undress to your own comfort level before getting onto the massage table. 

As some oil residue may remain on the skin and hair following your treatment, I recommend wearing comfortable clothing and being mindful of this when planning the rest of your day.

Most importantly, please don't worry about what to wear. I will guide you through everything and ensure that you feel comfortable, relaxed and at ease throughout your visit. 

This is entirely your choice and there is no right or wrong answer.

For treatments such as Lomi Lomi Nui, which use long, flowing strokes across the body, some clients prefer to remove their underwear to allow for a more seamless experience, while others feel more comfortable keeping it on. Both options are perfectly acceptable.

Your comfort, dignity and privacy are always respected. Appropriate draping is maintained throughout the treatment and intimate areas are always covered. For ladies, breast draping or coverings are entirely optional and will be discussed during the consultation.

I will always work within your comfort zone and adapt the treatment to ensure that you feel safe, comfortable and at ease throughout your session. 

I do not currently offer shower facilities.

As some oil residue may remain on the skin and hair following your treatment, I recommend wearing comfortable clothing and being mindful of this when planning the rest of your day.

Toilet facilities are available. As my treatment room is located in the back garden and the bathroom is situated in the main house, I kindly encourage clients to use the facilities before or after their treatment where possible.

Please feel free to let me know if there is anything I can do to make your visit as comfortable as possible.

As I work by appointment only, I kindly ask that any cancellations or requests to reschedule are made at least 48 hours in advance.

Should you need to change or cancel your appointment, please contact me by phone, text, WhatsApp or email and I will do my best to accommodate you.

Appointments cancelled or rescheduled with less than 48 hours' notice, as well as missed appointments, will incur the full treatment fee. This policy helps protect the time reserved especially for you and allows me to continue offering the highest level of care to all clients.

Outstanding cancellation fees must be settled before future appointments can be made.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. 

Your comfort and wellbeing are always my priority, so please feel free to let me know at any point during your treatment if something does not feel right.

Whether you would prefer more or less pressure, an adjustment to your position, changes to the room temperature or music, if you simply need to pause or use the bathroom, I encourage you to speak up. Treatments are always tailored to your individual needs and comfort levels.

While some techniques may occasionally create sensations of tenderness or discomfort, treatment should never feel unbearable or cause you distress. Open communication allows me to make any necessary adjustments so that your experience remains both safe and enjoyable.

Please remember that this is your time and I want you to feel as relaxed, comfortable and cared for as possible throughout your session. 

This is completely normal and nothing to feel self-conscious about.

Many clients fall asleep during treatment and the body may sometimes respond with natural involuntary sounds or movements such as stomach noises or passing wind. These are simply normal bodily functions and are often a sign that the body is entering a deeper state of relaxation.

A key aim of treatment is to support the nervous system in relaxing fully so these responses are not uncommon and there is no need for embarrassment.

Your comfort and dignity are always respected throughout your session. 

Occasionally, emotions may arise during or after a treatment. This is a natural experience and nothing to feel concerned or embarrassed about.

Bodywork encourages the body and nervous system to relax, creating a space where people may become more aware of their thoughts, feelings and emotions. Some clients experience tears, laughter, memories or simply a profound sense of calm and relief. Others may notice no emotional response at all. Every experience is unique.

The nurturing nature of therapeutic touch and the opportunity to slow down can sometimes allow emotions that have been held beneath the surface to be acknowledged and expressed. This can be a deeply meaningful and restorative experience for some people.

If emotions arise during your treatment, you are under no obligation to explain or talk about them. I will simply hold a safe, compassionate and non-judgemental space for whatever you may be experiencing.

Many clients describe feeling lighter, calmer and more at ease afterwards while others simply enjoy a deep sense of relaxation. There is no right or wrong response.

As with all aspects of treatment, your comfort, dignity and wellbeing are always my priority.  

This is a common concern for many men and an important question to address.

It is helpful to understand that an erection during a massage is a normal physiological response and does not necessarily indicate sexual arousal or intent. Massage stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, often referred to as the "rest and digest" system, which promotes relaxation, increases circulation and may occasionally result in an involuntary erection.

This is a natural response and nothing to feel embarrassed or ashamed about.

What happens if this occurs:

• I will continue your treatment professionally and without judgement

• If necessary, I may adjust the draping or technique to ensure your comfort and maintain appropriate boundaries

• As long as your behaviour remains respectful and appropriate, it is not a cause for concern

What should I do if this happens:

There is no need to feel embarrassed. In most cases, the erection will subside naturally as you continue to relax.

If you feel uncomfortable or self-conscious, you are welcome to let me know or request a short pause during the treatment. Your comfort, dignity and wellbeing are always my priority.

Relax & Renew Holistic Massage provides professional therapeutic and holistic treatments only. Any inappropriate behaviour, requests or sexual advances will result in the immediate termination of the treatment and refusal of future appointments. 

Yes. Your comfort, dignity and privacy are always of the utmost importance.

Appropriate draping is maintained throughout your treatment. Intimate areas are always covered and I take great care to ensure that you feel safe, comfortable and respected at all times.

For treatments such as Lomi Lomi Nui, I use a traditional sarong for draping. This allows for the flowing nature of the treatment while maintaining your privacy and dignity. For ladies, breast draping or coverings are entirely optional and will always be discussed beforehand.

You will be given privacy to undress and dress. There is never any expectation to remove more clothing than you feel comfortable with. Treatments can always be adapted to suit your individual preferences and comfort level.

If you have any questions or concerns before or during your treatment, please feel free to let me know. My aim is for you to feel relaxed, at ease and fully supported throughout your visit.

Of course. Your treatment is your time, and there is no expectation for you to remain silent.

Some clients enjoy chatting, while others prefer to simply relax in quiet and allow themselves to drift into a deeply restful state. There is no right or wrong way to experience your treatment and I will always respect what feels most comfortable for you on the day.

That said, many clients naturally become quieter as the treatment progresses. I personally value stillness, as it allows both of us to settle more deeply into the experience. Quiet can help the mind slow down, encourage the nervous system to relax and allow me to fully focus on the subtle responses of your body and tailor the treatment accordingly.

Conversation is always welcome when needed, but equally, please know that there is no pressure to fill the silence. Many clients find the peacefulness of the treatment room to be one of the most restorative aspects of their visit.

My intention is to create a calm, safe and nurturing space where you can simply relax, let go and receive whatever support you need in that moment.

Massage and bodywork offer many benefits for both physical and emotional wellbeing. While each person's experience is unique, regular treatments can provide an opportunity to slow down, relax and reconnect with yourself.

Many people seek massage to help:

• Reduce stress and promote relaxation

• Ease muscular tension, soreness and stiffness

• Improve flexibility and freedom of movement

• Support recovery from the physical demands of everyday life

• Encourage better sleep and a greater sense of wellbeing

• Promote body awareness and mind-body connection

• Create space for rest and nervous system regulation

• Support emotional balance and resilience during times of stress

Beyond the physical benefits, massage provides something that is often lacking in modern life - permission to pause. Taking time to rest and restore can have a profound effect on how we feel, helping us to approach life with greater ease, balance and vitality.

While massage and holistic therapies can be a valuable support for overall wellbeing, they are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure medical conditions. If you have any concerns regarding your health, please consult your GP or other healthcare professional.

Appointments can be booked online via my booking system, where you can view availability and choose a time that suits you.

If you prefer, you are also welcome to contact me directly by phone, text or WhatsApp on 085 187 9892 or by email at relaxandrenew75@gmail.com and I will be happy to assist you with your booking.

If you are unsure which treatment is most suitable for you, please feel free to get in touch before booking. I am always happy to guide you and help you choose the treatment that best supports your needs and goals.

Please note that all appointments are confirmed once booked. I kindly ask that you review the cancellation policy when scheduling.

Relax & Renew Holistic Massage is located in Wicklow Town in a calm, private treatment space in a residential setting. The full address is listed on the contact page of this website.

A private driveway with space for one car is reserved for clients where possible. There is also free on-street parking available nearby.

As the treatment room is situated in the back garden, I kindly ask clients to arrive at their appointment time as there is no waiting area on site.

If you are attending for the first time and have any questions about parking or finding the location, please feel free to get in touch in advance. I am always happy to help ensure your arrival is smooth and stress-free. 

I recommend arriving a couple of minutes before your scheduled appointment time to allow yourself to settle in and begin your treatment feeling relaxed and unhurried.

There is no need to arrive significantly early, as there is no waiting area on site. If you do arrive slightly ahead of time, I will welcome you in as soon as I am ready for your session.

If you are running late, please let me know as soon as possible. I will always do my best to accommodate you within the remaining treatment time, although your session may need to be shortened to avoid impacting other clients.

My intention is for your visit to feel calm, unhurried and stress-free from the moment you arrive.

That is absolutely no problem at all. Many clients visiting Relax & Renew are receiving massage or holistic bodywork for the very first time.

Before your treatment begins, we will have a short, relaxed consultation where I will ask about your health, any areas of concern and what you would like to gain from your session. This helps me tailor the treatment to your individual needs and ensures that you feel comfortable and supported throughout.

I will then explain everything you need to know and guide you through the process step by step. You will be given privacy to undress and settle onto the treatment table in your own time and you are always in control of what feels comfortable for you.

During the treatment you do not need to do anything at all - your only job is to relax and receive. Some people talk, some drift into quiet rest and many fall into a deep sleep. All responses are completely normal.

If at any point you have questions, feel unsure or would like something adjusted, please simply let me know. Treatments are always adapted to suit your comfort level.

My intention is for you to feel at ease from the moment you arrive, even if it is your very first experience of massage or bodywork.

It is completely normal to feel a little nervous or self-conscious before your first treatment or even if you have had massage before. Many clients feel this way when trying something new or when allowing themselves time to slow down and be cared for.

Please know that you are welcome exactly as you are. There is no expectation to look, feel or behave in any particular way during your visit. Your comfort, privacy and dignity are always respected and appropriate draping is maintained throughout your treatment.

You are always in control of your experience. Nothing is ever rushed or forced and I will check in with you to ensure you are comfortable throughout the session. Treatments can be fully adapted to suit your needs, whether that means adjusting pressure, pace, areas of focus or simply allowing space for quiet rest.

Many clients find that any initial nervousness begins to ease once the treatment starts and the body begins to relax. It is very common to feel more at ease within a few minutes of settling onto the table.

My intention is to create a calm, safe and welcoming space where you can let go of any pressure or expectation and simply take time for yourself.

That is absolutely fine and very common. Many clients are unsure which treatment is best for them when they first visit Relax & Renew.

You do not need to decide alone. We will always discuss your needs, preferences and any areas of concern before your treatment begins and I will guide you in choosing the most suitable option for your body and your current state of wellbeing.

In general:

• Lomi Lomi Nui is ideal if you are looking for deep relaxation, emotional release or a full-body restorative experience.

 • Fascia Release Therapy is more focused and may be beneficial if you are experiencing physical tension, restriction or chronic tightness.

• Reflexology can be a good option if you prefer a foot-based treatment or are looking for a shorter, grounding session.

If you are unsure, Lomi Lomi Nui is often a wonderful starting point as it allows the body and nervous system time to fully unwind and the treatment can always be adapted to focus on specific areas if needed.

You are also welcome to get in touch before booking if you would like guidance. I am always happy to help you choose the treatment that best supports your needs on the day.

Both Lomi Lomi Nui and Fascia Release Therapy are deeply restorative treatments but they differ in approach, technique and the experience they offer.

Lomi Lomi Nui is a traditional Hawaiian-inspired massage characterised by long, flowing, rhythmic movements using the hands and forearms. The treatment is continuous and fluid, working across the body in a way that encourages deep relaxation, nervous system regulation and a sense of emotional and physical release. It is often described as nurturing, meditative and deeply soothing, allowing the mind and body to fully unwind.

Fascia Release Therapy, by contrast, is a more focused and structured form of bodywork that works with the body's connective tissue system. It involves slow, sustained pressure held in specific areas of tension to encourage the fascia to soften and release restrictions. This approach can be particularly helpful for areas of chronic tightness, postural strain or long-held physical patterns of tension. Clients often experience a gradual unwinding sensation as the body begins to release.

In simple terms, Lomi Lomi is more flowing and holistic in nature, working with the body as a whole to encourage deep relaxation and emotional release while Fascia Release Therapy is more targeted and therapeutic, focusing on specific areas of restriction within the body.

Both treatments support physical and emotional wellbeing. In many cases they can complement each other depending on your needs. 

If you are experiencing stress, overwhelm or burnout, both Lomi Lomi Nui and Fascia Release Therapy can be deeply supportive, depending on what your body and nervous system need at the time.

Lomi Lomi Nui is often particularly beneficial for stress and burnout as it offers a deeply nurturing, full-body experience designed to calm the nervous system, quiet the mind and encourage a state of deep rest. The flowing, rhythmic nature of the treatment helps the body to soften and let go, creating space for both physical and emotional relaxation. Many clients find it especially helpful when they feel mentally exhausted, emotionally overwhelmed or simply in need of time to switch off completely.

Fascia Release Therapy may be more suitable if stress is showing up in the body as physical tension, tightness, headaches or restricted movement. By working slowly and gently with the connective tissue, this treatment can help the body release areas of holding and support a gradual unwinding of chronic tension patterns.

In many cases, a combination of both approaches can be beneficial over time, depending on your individual needs.

If you are unsure, Lomi Lomi Nui is often a very good starting point for stress and burnout, as it allows the body and nervous system time to fully settle into a restorative state of relaxation.

You are always welcome to discuss your situation before booking. I will help guide you towards the treatment most suitable for where you are right now. 

Yes. While massage and bodywork can be highly beneficial for many people, there are certain situations where treatment may need to be postponed or adapted.

Massage may not be suitable if you are currently experiencing:
• Fever, flu or contagious illness
• Acute injury or recent trauma (unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional)
• Recent surgery (unless cleared by your doctor)
• Unexplained pain, swelling or medical symptoms that have not yet been assessed

• Certain cardiovascular conditions or other medical concerns that require medical clearance

If you are pregnant, have a diagnosed medical condition or are receiving ongoing medical treatment, please inform me before booking so that we can ensure the treatment is appropriate for your needs.

In many cases, massage can still be received safely with appropriate adjustments. It is always important that your safety and wellbeing come first. If necessary, I may recommend seeking advice from your GP or healthcare provider before proceeding.

If you are ever unsure, please feel free to get in touch before booking. I am always happy to advise and help you decide whether treatment is suitable for you at that time.