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MASSAGE FAQ

Is massage therapy professional and ethical?
Yes. Massage therapy is a licensed healthcare profession. Any inappropriate behavior or
requests will result in immediate termination of the session. Your comfort, safety, and
dignity are always the priority.


What should I expect during my first massage?
At your first visit, you will arrive 15 minutes early in order to fill out an intake form.
Your therapist will go over health history, areas of pain or tension, and your goals for the
session. You’ll have privacy to undress to your comfort level and will be properly draped
at all times. The massage will be customized to your needs, and you can speak up at any
time if something doesn’t feel right.


What should I wear?
You may undress to your level of comfort. Many clients undress completely, while others
leave on underwear or shorts. You will always be draped with a sheet or blanket, and
only the area being worked on will be uncovered.

Is massage therapy covered by insurance?

Coverage varies by plan and provider. Some insurance plans, HSAs, or FSAs may reimburse massage with a doctor’s referral. We recommend checking directly with your insurance company. We accept HSA, FSA and HRA.


Is massage painful?
Massage should never feel unbearable. Some techniques—especially deep tissue or
trigger point work—can feel intense, but it should still be within a “good pain” range.
Always let your therapist know if pressure needs to be adjusted.


Why Combine a Salt Float with Massage or Other Services?
Combining services helps your body relax more deeply and get better results from each
session.
Salt Float + Massage
A salt float helps your body reach a deep state of relaxation before massage even begins.
Floating in warm, magnesium-rich water reduces pressure on joints and muscles,
allowing the nervous system to slow down and shift out of stress mode.
When your body is already relaxed:
● Muscles soften more easily
● Massage pressure feels more comfortable
● The therapist can work more effectively without forcing tissue
Floating also helps quiet the mind, which can make it easier to stay present and fully
receive the massage.
Many clients find that combining floating and massage leads to:
● Deeper muscle release
● Less soreness afterward
● Longer-lasting results
● A greater sense of calm and reset


Massage + Sauna
Heat from the sauna helps muscles warm up and improves circulation, making massage:
● Easier on tight areas
● More comfortable
● More restorative
Massage + Salt Room
The salt room offers a calm, quiet space that supports:
● Relaxation
● Breathing
● Stress relief

Massage + Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy supports:
● Muscle recovery
● Joint health
● Reduced inflammation
When paired with massage, it can help the body heal and recover more efficiently. This
is an excellent choice to add on after your massage.


Why Combine Services at All?
Stacking services allows your body to:
● Relax longer
● Release tension more easily
● Recover more fully
It’s not about doing more — it’s about helping your body get into the right state to heal.

How often should I get a massage?
This depends on your goals:
● Pain or injury recovery: 1–2 times per week initially
● Chronic tension or stress: every 2–4 weeks
● General relaxation & maintenance: once a month

Your therapist can recommend a schedule that fits your body and lifestyle. Our
therapists are not here to sell you something, they are here to listen to you and help you
accomplish your health and wellness goals.


Will I be sore afterward?
Some people experience mild soreness, similar to post-workout soreness, especially
after deep work or if muscles are very tight. This usually resolves within 24–48 hours.
Drinking water and gentle movement can help. If you are prone to soreness after a
workout or past massages, our therapists recommend you do any preventive remedies
instead of waiting for the pain to occur.


Should I talk during the massage?
That’s completely up to you. Some clients enjoy conversation; others prefer quiet
relaxation. You are also encouraged to speak up at any time about pressure,
temperature, or comfort. We want you to feel completely safe and comfortable during
your session, so everything you share with your therapist is between the two of you.


Do I need to drink water after a massage?
Yes—hydration helps your body process the effects of massage and may reduce soreness.
While massage doesn’t “flush toxins,” it does increase circulation and tissue movement,
which benefits from proper hydration. Our therapists also suggest drinking plenty of
water prior to the massage and avoiding caffeine as well as smoking directly before the
massage.


Can massage help with stress and anxiety?
Absolutely. Massage therapy is well known for calming the nervous system, reducing
stress hormones, and promoting relaxation. Many clients report improved sleep, mood,
and overall well-being.


Are there conditions that massage is not appropriate for?
Yes. Massage may need to be avoided or modified if you have:
● Fever or contagious illness
● Blood clots or certain vascular conditions
● Recent surgery or acute injury
● Certain skin conditions or infections

Always disclose medical conditions, medications, and recent procedures so your
therapist can keep you safe.


How early should I arrive?
Please arrive 5–10 minutes early to allow time for intake forms and to settle in. Arriving
late may shorten your session out of respect for other clients.


What is Deep Tissue Massage?
Deep tissue massage focuses on chronic muscle tension and deeper layers of muscle and
connective tissue. It uses slow, intentional pressure to release tight areas, adhesion,
and trigger points.

Deep tissue may help with:
● Chronic neck, shoulder, or low-back pain
● Muscle knots and restricted movement
● Postural issues
● Old injuries
Deep tissue is not about pain, but about effectiveness. Pressure is always adjusted to
your tolerance, and communication is key.

What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)?
Manual lymphatic drainage is a gentle, rhythmic technique that supports the lymphatic
system, which helps remove excess fluid and supports immune function.
MLD may help with:
● Swelling or fluid retention
● Post-surgical or post-injury recovery
● Lymphedema (with appropriate clearance)
● Sinus congestion
● Inflammation and fatigue
This technique is very light and relaxing—not deep or painful—and is often
recommended as part of a medical or wellness plan.

What is Prenatal Massage?
Prenatal massage is specifically designed for pregnant clients and focuses on comfort,
safety, and support during pregnancy. Positioning and techniques are adapted to reduce
strain and promote relaxation.
Prenatal massage may help with:
● Low back, hip, and sciatic pain
● Swelling in legs and feet
● Sleep discomfort
● Stress and anxiety

Clients are positioned with bolsters or side-lying support, and only pregnancy-safe
techniques are used. Always inform your therapist how far along you are and share any
medical considerations.


What is Trauma-Informed Massage?
Trauma-informed massage prioritizes choice, consent, and emotional safety. It
recognizes that the body can hold stress or trauma and that certain sensations,
positions, or environments may feel overwhelming.
Trauma-informed care includes:
● Clear communication and consent before touch
● Options to remain clothed or partially clothed
● Control over pressure, positioning, and pace
● Respect for boundaries—no explanation required
This approach is supportive for anyone who has experienced trauma, anxiety, chronic
stress, or simply prefers a more empowering, client-led experience.


How Can Massage Help with PTSD?
Massage therapy can be a powerful supportive tool for people living with PTSD,
especially when provided in a trauma-informed way.
PTSD often keeps the nervous system stuck in a state of fight, flight, or freeze. Massage
can help by gently signaling safety to the body.
Massage may help PTSD by:
● Calming the nervous system and reducing hypervigilance
● Lowering stress hormones such as cortisol
● Improving sleep quality
● Increasing body awareness in a safe, controlled way
● Releasing chronic muscle tension related to long-term stress
Trauma-informed massage emphasizes choice, consent, predictability, and control.
Sessions may involve lighter pressure, slower pacing, clear communication, and
flexibility around touch, positioning, and draping.
Massage is not a replacement for mental health care, but it can be a meaningful
complement to therapy, helping the body feel safe enough to rest and heal.

What is Therapeutic Massage?
Therapeutic massage is goal-oriented and focused on pain relief, injury recovery, and
improved function. It often combines techniques such as deep tissue, myofascial release,
stretching, and trigger point work.
Therapeutic massage may help with:
● Chronic pain
● Repetitive strain injuries
● Headaches or migraines
● Limited range of motion
● Recovery from physical stress or injury
Sessions are tailored to your specific concerns and may feel more targeted than
relaxation massage.

What is Myofascial Release?
Myofascial release focuses on the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds and
supports muscles, organs, and nerves. When fascia becomes restricted—due to injury,
stress, or repetitive movement—it can cause pain, stiffness, or limited mobility.
This technique uses slow, sustained pressure and gentle stretching, allowing the tissue
to soften and release naturally.
Myofascial release may help with:
● Chronic pain and tightness
● Limited range of motion
● Postural imbalances
● Headaches or jaw tension
● Old injuries that haven’t responded to other treatments
Sessions may feel slow and subtle, but the results can be profound and long-lasting.


What is Reiki?
Reiki is a gentle, non-invasive energy-based practice that promotes deep relaxation and
supports the body’s natural healing processes. It can be done with light touch or no
touch at all, depending on client preference.

Reiki does not manipulate muscles or tissues. Instead, it focuses on creating a calming
environment where the nervous system can settle and the body can restore balance.
Reiki may help with:
● Stress and emotional overwhelm
● Anxiety or nervous system dysregulation
● Sleep difficulties
● Emotional processing or burnout
● Supporting overall well-being
Reiki can be offered as a stand-alone session or integrated into a massage for a more
holistic experience.
Clients are always fully clothed if Reiki is provided on its own, and consent is discussed
beforehand.


What is Hot Stone Massage?
Hot stone massage uses smooth, heated stones placed on specific areas of the body and
sometimes used as massage tools. The warmth helps muscles relax more deeply,
allowing the therapist to work with less pressure while still achieving effective results.
Hot stone massage may help with:
● Deep muscle tension
● Chronic pain or stiffness
● Stress and anxiety
● Improved circulation
● Relaxation and nervous system calming
The heat is always monitored for comfort and safety, and stones are never too hot. This
massage is deeply soothing and grounding.


What is CranioSacral Therapy?
CranioSacral Therapy is a gentle, hands-on technique that works with the craniosacral
system, which includes the skull (cranium), spine, sacrum, and the membranes and
fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
This system is closely connected to the central nervous system, which influences stress
response, pain, and overall body balance. The practitioner supports the body’s natural
rhythms and release patterns.
CranioSacral Therapy may help with:

● Headaches or migraines
● Jaw (TMJ) tension
● Chronic pain or nervous system imbalance
● Stress-related conditions
● Trauma and emotional tension held in the body
Many people experience deep relaxation, improved sleep, and relief from stress-related
tension.

What Is a Doula?
A doula is a trained support person who helps during pregnancy, labor, and birth.
They provide:
● Emotional support
● Physical comfort
● Information and reassurance
Doulas do not give medical care or make decisions. They work alongside doctors and
midwives to help you feel calmer, more supported, and more confident throughout
pregnancy and birth.

Tipping Guide
Tipping is optional but much appreciated. Here are some examples based on session
length and type:
● 30-minute massage: $15-$25 (these sessions require a lot of focus and detail)
● 60-minute massage: $15–$30
● 90-minute massage: $20–$40
● 120-minute massage or full spa session: $30–$50
● 60-minute Hot Stone Massage: $20–$35
● 90-minute Hot Stone Massage: $30-50
Tips are given directly to your therapist and show appreciation for their care and skill.

Kind - Knowledgable - Above & Beyond

Review about our team: 

​I recently had the absolute pleasure of visiting Serenity Now Float Spa, and I can’t stop raving about the experience! From the moment I walked through the door, I was enveloped in a sense of calm and tranquility that’s hard to find anywhere else. The ambiance is pure bliss—soft lighting, soothing scents, and a peaceful vibe that instantly melts away stress.

The real stars of the show, though, are the staff. They went above and beyond to make my visit unforgettable. Every team member I encountered was warm, welcoming, and genuinely passionate about ensuring I had the best experience possible. They took the time to explain the float process with patience and enthusiasm, answering all my questions and making me feel completely at ease. Their attention to detail and personalized care were nothing short of exceptional—I felt like a VIP from start to finish.

The float itself was pure magic. The serene environment of the tank, paired with the perfect water temperature and effortless buoyancy, left me feeling rejuvenated and deeply relaxed. It’s like they’ve mastered the art of serenity here! After my session, the staff even checked in to see how I was feeling and offered thoughtful tips to extend that post-float glow.

Serenity Now Float Spa is an absolute gem, and the staff’s amazing service elevates it to a whole new level. If you’re looking for a place to unwind, recharge, and be pampered by some of the kindest and most skilled people around, this is it. I’m already counting the days until my next visit—five stars aren’t enough for this incredible team and experience!

- Josh

Welcoming- Exceptional - Amazing

Review about our team: 

Absolutely amazing experience! This spa has been life changing for me. It’s excellent for recovery after the gym, no matter what level of fitness you are. The float tanks are above and beyond any sort of deprivation tank I have seen yet. They are large enough so you do not feel claustrophobic and they are located in your own luxury suite, so you feel you get the whole pamper experience! The best thing I ever did for myself was get a membership here. The entire staff is incredibly welcoming and friendly, they offer health seminars that are very interesting. My overall health has improved dramatically since coming here regularly and has helped aid my weight loss and fitness journey. My skin is always radiantly glowing after leaving here and my skin and nails are a long healthier and stronger as well. The benefits are endless. They have so many options here, including halo therapy, contrast therapy, float tanks, PEMF mats, sonix machines, massages, and so much more! My favorite is to do a full detox day here, I leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated every time! Give yourself the greatest gift of health and happiness and try serenity float spa for yourself. They have a lot of affordable options.

- Jamie

Located at 7760 Winghaven Boulevard, O’Fallon, MO, Serenity Now Float Spa offers a sanctuary from the stress of daily life. Our spacious, cabin-style float tanks (7-ft ceilings) provide private, sensory‑neutral experiences using warm Epsom-salt water to promote deep relaxation, improved sleep, muscle and joint recovery, mental clarity, and emotional balance.

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Business Hours

Mon/Wed/Fri

     10:00 am – 8:00 pm

Thursday

   10:00 am – 6:00 pm

Saturday

    8:30 am – 6:00 pm

​Tues/Sunday

       CLOSED

© 2025  Serenity Now Float Spa

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