What is infrared?

The same infrared heat produced by the sun which is required by all things for optimum health is the source for our saunas, without all the harmful UV effects. The radiant heat surrounds you and penetrates deeply into your joints, muscles, and tissues increasing oxygen flow and circulation. Our saunas help to remove impurities from your cells, specifically the cells inside our fat where the body stores waste and harmful toxins such as cholesterol and heavy metals.

There are three levels of infrared (our saunas incorporate up to all three!) near, mid, and far – each resonates with the subcutaneous fat layer of the human body producing different healing responses.

What are the benefits?

Near Infrared – Healthy cell immunity, wound healing, skin purification, and pain relief. Near infrared wavelengths have a lower micron level and a resulting shorter wavelength which mostly penetrates the epidermis layer of the skin. This makes it a very safe choice for the improvement of cell health, the renewal of skin, tissue growth, and wound healing.

Mid Infrared – Pain relief, improved circulation, and weight loss. Mid Infrared wavelengths penetrate deeper into the body than near infrared and are therefore good for increasing circulation and blood flow. When used on a consistent basis, mid infrared sauna therapy has been shown to significantly increase blood flow and reduce muscle and joint pain. Healing can occur faster because mid infrared penetrates deeper into soft tissue where inflammation occurs.

Far Infrared – Weight loss, detoxification, better circulation, reduction in blood pressure, and relaxation. Because far infrared sauna therapy heats the body directly rather than simply warming the air, it raises the core body temperature and produces a deep, detoxifying sweat at the cellular level, where most toxins reside. Far infrared also aids in blood pressure reduction & weight loss as you get a great passive aerobic exercise. Remember our saunas include up to all three!

How does infrared differ from a traditional sauna?

Traditional dry saunas use temperatures as high as 185-195 degrees F, and this can overwhelm those who are more sensitive to the heat. Infrared saunas use a milder temperature environment anywhere from 120-160 degrees F. However, because the heat of infrared saunas travels much deeper into the body, they are able to cause a more vigorous sweat at lower temperature, states Dr. Richard Beever in the July 2009 issue of "Canadian Family Physician." When comparing an infrared sauna to a traditional steam sauna, it’s important to look at humidity. A steam sauna is going to have a lower temperature than a traditional dry sauna, but it is also going to employ large amounts of heated steam, which creates a humid experience. Infrared saunas do not use steam and rely fully on the heat from the infrared heaters for overall effects. The results of an infrared sauna are produced at lower temperature than a conventional sauna and might be tolerated better by people who can’t withstand the very high heats of other dry saunas or even steam rooms.

What should I expect at my first massage?

We’ll ask you to arrive a few minutes before your scheduled appointment to fill us in on your medical history, medications, allergies (in case you’re allergic to a product we’re using), etc. After completing the short form, we’ll also ask you questions about specific issues you’d like addressed and may even perform certain assessments to evaluate your condition. With this information, we can ensure that massage will be helpful and not harmful for you. This information also helps us customize your massage to fit your needs.

Do I have to take off all my clothes?

If you’re uncomfortable with removing all of your clothing, you won’t be able to relax, which is obviously counterproductive. For that reason, we recommend that you leave on whatever you want, with the understanding that we will have to work around those articles of clothing. After you undress in privacy, you’ll lie on the table and cover yourself with a sheet. During your massage, the sheet will cover your body at all times, with only the area that is being massaged exposed. If you are an athlete and getting a massage to train for a sport, we may recommend that you wear running shorts and, for women, a sports bra.

Is massage not recommended for certain medical conditions?

Yes. While we can’t name every condition here (and it will vary from person to person), it’s important that you let us know your complete medical history prior to your first massage. Not only will the form help us know whether massage is appropriate for you, but it also will help us tailor the massage to your needs. We’ll also check in with you before each subsequent massage for any changes in your health.

Should I give feedback during the massage?

Absolutely. Your input is essential for you to receive the best result possible. Please tell us if the massage is too deep or not deep enough, and if we’re working the right areas. Also if you’re hot or cold, in an uncomfortable position, or don’t like the scent of the oils. We always want to know what is or isn’t working for you.

Why should I drink water after my massage?

Every day, your body’s muscle tissue absorbs chemicals from food, cosmetics, deodorants, etc. When we massage those muscles, we release those toxins and push them back into your bloodstream. Drinking water right after a massage (in fact, add an extra glass or two beyond what you normally drink) helps the body flush out the toxins and keeps you feeling better longer.

If I want to use the sauna, is it best to do it before or after my massage?

Before is best. The sauna warms up your muscles, which in turn will make them more pliable and allow for deeper work. If you don’t have time to hit the sauna before the massage, using it afterward can also be beneficial for that increased circulation and flush.

Should I work out before or after a massage?

Much like the sauna, working out before a massage warms up the muscles and will allow us to do a deeper massage. If you’re planning to work out after a session or preparing for a race or other athletic event in less than a week, be sure to tell us so we can adjust the massage to provide the greatest benefit.

Do you accept walk-ins?

No. We work by appointment only.

What are the age restrictions to receive body work, such as massage, energy work or acupuncture?

Services offered at Rooted Method, LLC., is for the purpose of general wellness, stress reduction, and relief of muscular tension. Minors are permitted to receive massage therapy and acupuncture at our spa with parental consent. The parent or legal guardian must be present in helping complete the required forms for the minor, along with consent for the services requested. Minors (all clients under the age of 18 – unless otherwise emancipated) can only receive services with written parental/legal guardian consent. In collaboration with the consenting adult and child, the service provider will assist in establishing goals for the session(s). The parent/guardian must remain on site for the duration of the service. Parents/Guardians may elect to stay in the treatment room with the minor. Appropriate draping will be used at all times during each session.