Bodywork in the Time of Covid: Beginning June 2020
"The world is indeed full of peril, and in it there are many dark places; but still there is much that is fair,
and though in all lands love is now mingled with grief, it grows perhaps the greater." ~ J.R.R. Tolkien, Lord of the Rings
and though in all lands love is now mingled with grief, it grows perhaps the greater." ~ J.R.R. Tolkien, Lord of the Rings
This time of isolation has been difficult for all of us, especially for those accustomed to receiving bodywork. One reason for this is that touch is an essential human need, necessary for our psychological well-being. And simply put, the stress of the unknown has caused increased strain in our bodies. My work involves touch and connection. Now is the time to begin slowly healing.
There are many new considerations as I re-open my practice. Many of these precautions I will provide for you, and many changes will rely on your cooperation. In this way, I hope you understand that I come from a place of love and not fear; love for you and for this work. I want to convey this to you above all else.
What we know about this new coronavirus is that we do not know everything. Because we do not know everything, please understand that it is not possible to ensure a 100% risk-free environment for treatment. After researching many guidelines, I find the following protocols the most feasible to implement in the environment where I practice.
What I am doing to safeguard your health while in my treatment space:
What I need you to do when you come for treatment:
I hope these measures provide some reassurance to you, protect me and others, and help you to relax during your time here.
*My liability insurance, through my massage association, ABMP, does not provide coverage for COVID19-related incidences.
There are many new considerations as I re-open my practice. Many of these precautions I will provide for you, and many changes will rely on your cooperation. In this way, I hope you understand that I come from a place of love and not fear; love for you and for this work. I want to convey this to you above all else.
What we know about this new coronavirus is that we do not know everything. Because we do not know everything, please understand that it is not possible to ensure a 100% risk-free environment for treatment. After researching many guidelines, I find the following protocols the most feasible to implement in the environment where I practice.
What I am doing to safeguard your health while in my treatment space:
- A medical-grade air purifier will be in use in the treatment room.
- A touchless soap dispenser in the bathroom and a touchless hand sanitizer dispenser in the treatment room are for your use.
- I will thoroughly wash my hands (as always) before entering the room, and not touch any other surface prior to treatment.
- I will wear a mask during your treatment to protect you.
- A new mask will be provided for those who want to wear one during their treatment (more on this below).
- All contact surfaces will be cleaned with a CDC-approved cleaner between clients.
- And as always, all linens are cleaned with detergent in the hottest water after each treatment.
What I need you to do when you come for treatment:
- Important: On your first appointment after June 1, fill out, either online HERE, or print and bring with you, the COVID19 Liability Waiver. Note: I will not be able to treat you without it.*
- Within 24 hours before your appointment, I will text you a short health questionnaire that you can answer with Yes/No. Please respond promptly. If you do not have text messaging you will be directed to respond HERE.
- If you have symptoms the day of your appointment, please call and cancel asap; there is no penalty for cancellations.
- Remove your shoes upon entering.
- Do not linger in the living areas.
- Immediately wash your hands in the bathroom, use the disposable hand towels provided to dry hands and turn off faucet.
- This is optional: You may choose to wear or not wear a mask. Wearing a mask protects me and keeps you from touching your face. It is difficult to breathe in one normally, especially when lying face down, and it may inhibit full relaxation during treatment. If you choose to wear one, I will provide a new one for you. Please do not bring in a mask you have previously worn.
- After you get off the table use the hand sanitizer provided before opening the door.
- Remain in the room after treatment for follow up, payment and re-scheduling, rather than coming out to the living areas.
- Very important: If you present with any symptoms within 2 weeks of your treatment, you must contact me immediately.
I hope these measures provide some reassurance to you, protect me and others, and help you to relax during your time here.
*My liability insurance, through my massage association, ABMP, does not provide coverage for COVID19-related incidences.