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Yoga FAQ

How can yoga benefit me?

As your practice develops, you may find:

  •     improved flexibility
  •     greater energy and vitality
  •     better muscle tone and greater strength
  •     relief of head, neck and back pain
  •     more restful sleep

How should I prepare for class?

  •  arrive 10 -15 minutes before class
  •  refrain from eating one hour before class
  •  wear comfortable, light, fitted leggings, tights, and tanks or tees
  •  turn off cell phones
  •  inform your instructor of any injuries, conditions, or concerns you may have.

Do I need to be physically flexible to practice yoga?

No, yoga can be done by anyone. Yoga classes and poses done during the class can be adapted to meet each student’s ability. With continued practice, your flexibility should improve. It is critical, however, that you inform your instructor if you have any injuries, limitations, or experience pain during class.

Do I have to select and enroll in one class?

You may always select a particular class to attend regularly; however, at Blue Heron Wellness you to have the freedom to experience different teachers and styles of yoga, and to “graduate” to the next class level, as you see fit or as your schedule requires.

If I do not attend all classes during the time required by the pass card, may I move the unused classes to the new card?

While we may make exceptions for hardship issues, all classes must be used in the period of time associated with the level of card purchased. Be aware that you can attend multiple class sessions in a week in order to use the sessions allotted by the pass card.

What else do I need to know about the pass cards?

While providing students with choice and flexibility is our goal, cards are not refundable or transferable.

What if I am new to yoga?

New students should arrive at least 10 minutes early to speak with your instructor and to prepare for class. New students arriving more than 5 minutes late are discouraged from entering the class for safety reasons.

Can I use my passcard for Pilates Sculpting Series, Yoga Fundamentals classes, or any other workshop?

Passcards can be used for any class on the Passcard schedule. This does not include series or workshops. Workshops and series are purchased separately.

Acupuncture FAQ 

What is traditional acupuncture?

Traditional acupuncture has been practiced for more than 3000 years. Its benefits are becoming well-documented in western medical journals and popular press. This low cost, non-invasive form of medical care uses hair-thin needles inserted at specific points along a pathway, called the body’s meridian, to keep energy, called chi or qi, moving through the body in order restore harmony or repair dis-ease.

Does acupuncture hurt?

The sensations that you may experience during acupuncture range from nothing at all to a brief ache or heaviness in the area being treated. While some places may be more sensitive than others, by and large, patients describe the sensations as fleeting and the treatment experience as deeply relaxing.

Are the needles safe?

Yes. Sterile disposable needles are used. They are used once and then disposed of immediately.

Do I have to be ill to benefit from acupuncture?

Absolutely not. Many patients come for regular treatments to achieve increased energy, calm, and enjoyment in life.   Acupuncture can be a powerful preventative measure to keep you healthy all year.

Massage Therapy FAQ

What are the benefits of acupuncture?

The World Health Organization states that acupuncture provides relief from over 40 conditions including:

  •  pain associated with bone or muscles, such as back and knee pain
  •  stomach conditions such as chronic indigestion and constipation
  •  menstrual or menopausal complaints
  •  insomnia
  •  asthma and allergies
  •  depression and anxiety

What should I expect during the first visit?

The first appointment typically lasts 1.5 hours. During this visit we will speak at length about your health concerns and address any questions you may have about acupuncture and the healing process. We will also discuss your health and personal histories in detail, followed by a physical examination. The primary objective of the first appointment is to assess the underlying conditions that have led to your current concerns.

Following the initial consultation, optimally you will be seen in weekly one-hour sessions for 6 to 12 visits. During this time, significant signs of progress will likely appear. As you begin to progress, treatments may be less frequent.

How do I get the most out of each treatment?

To get the most of your treatments, please turn off all pagers and cell phones during your visit. Please refrain from wearing makeup or scented lotions or perfumes for the first few treatments. It is also advisable to avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages the day of your appointment and for at least 24 hours afterwards. Also avoid intense physical activity before or after your scheduled treatment.

Is acupuncture covered by insurance?

Blue Heron Wellness accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield for those clients whose specific plan covers acupuncture. Call your insurer to find out. Then call our office for more information. A growing number of other insurance companies will reimburse for acupuncture treatments. Consult your insurer for the terms of coverage on your policy. Blue Heron Wellness will provide the necessary codes and verification to enable our clients to bill their insurer for reimbursement.

What are some benefits of therapeutic massage?

Massage has been found to be effective in treatment of a number of health concerns, such as: relieving stress lowering blood pressure relieving upper and lower back pain aiding in recovery from injury supporting post-surgical rehabilitation relieving stress and pain associated with pregnancy, both pre- and post-natal.

What can I expect during my first massage?

Your massage therapist’s only goal is to ensure that your visit is comfortable and meets your needs. Before your massage starts, she or he will talk to you about your medical history and your goals for massage.

You will be given a few minutes privately to undress in the massage room. What clothing you choose to remove or leave on is solely up to you. Throughout the session you will be “draped” or covered by a sheet or a blanket. This cover will be moved only to provide the therapist with access to your leg, arm or back for treatment.

Your massage will general last about one hour, unless you have arranged for a massage of a different duration. After the massage, you will be given a few minutes privately to dress again. But don’t rush off! You are invited to enjoy a glass of water or cup of tea in the Serenity Room.

What information do I need to share with my practitioner?

Advise your massage therapist of any medical conditions or pregnancy so she can offer appropriate treatment. Be sure to speak up and let your practitioner know if the pressure is not adequate or too firm. Express your likes and dislikes and feel free to ask questions.

What do I wear during the massage?

Wear what makes you comfortable; although the majority of clients completely undress for treatments, it isn’t necessary. You will always be properly draped with sheets during your massage, exposing only the body part that the therapist is working on. Practitioners will respect boundaries. Tui Na sessions are done with clients wearing loose comfortable clothing.

How often should I schedule massage appointments?

This is a very individual issue and depends on your own wellness goals. If you are dealing with acute pain or injury, you may find more frequent appointments helpful. In other instances less frequent, regular appointments may work well. Massage can also be something you do less frequently. Whatever works well for you is fine. Talk with your therapist to help determine what schedule of massage is best for you.

Should I tip my therapist?

It is fairly standard practice to tip your massage therapist, although it is not required. The gratuity is usually about 15-20% of the fee for the service. At Blue Heron Wellness, we ask that you plan to leave the tip in cash.

How do I make an appointment for a massage?

Schedule your appointment by calling the office at 301-754-3730 as far in advance as you can. You can schedule a 1/2 hour, one hour, or 1 1/2 hour massage. You may either request a particular practitioner or ask for a time slot that is convenient. Arrive about 15 minutes before your appointment, especially before the first appointment, to allow time to check in and change. Late arrivals normally do not receive an extension of time.

What are some conditions Cranio-Sacral Therapy addresses?

  • Migraines and Headaches
  • Chronic Neck and Back Pain
  • 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

How is CST different from massage?
In a CST session, you are fully clothed, and the practitioner works around you on the table using at most times no more than 5 grams (the weight of a nickel) of pressure. If you have never had bodywork, this modality may be a good one to try out.

How many Cranio-Sacral Therapy sessions are necessary?
Since each person has a unique reaction to CST, the number of sessions needed could range from just one up to three sessions a week over several weeks. Many people also use CST as part of a preventive program for their health

Herbal Medicine FAQ

Do herbal therapies work?

Yes; however, the herbs recommended by the herbalist work very differently than typical pharmaceuticals. Herbal and nutritional therapies improve health by strengthening the body and its internal organs and they do so over time. Herbs do not necessarily kill bacteria or virus. Herbs may reduce some of the symptoms you experience with an illness or issue but, and more importantly, herbs help the body to develop its own strength to prevent the issue in the first place.

Are herbal supplements safe?

Yes, herbs are relatively safer than drugs, but bear in mind that every active substance has potential to do harm.  Herbalists practicing at Blue Heron Wellness are trained to use herbs to treat many health concerns. They know the interactions of the herbs and the appropriate and safe usage of herbal therapeutics in a variety of health concerns. It is critical that you take the herbs as they recommended, much as you would medications prescribed by a medical doctor.

From where will I obtain recommended supplements?

This depends on those herbal supplements recommended. In some instances, the herbs may be provided by your herbalist.  In other instances, you may either pick them up from local, nearby markets, such as Mom’s Organic Market.  While you will not have a prescription, per se, you will have instructions regarding the administration of the herbs and it is critical that you follow them. More is not better!

What are the benefits of herbal treatments?

Like other wellness modalities, herbal supplements and nutritional therapies are used to treat effectively many health concerns and well-being goals. Including, but not limited to:

  • effects of stress, whether chemical, physical or emotional in nature
  • digestive conditions
  • depression
  • menstrual and menopausal conditions
  • weight loss or gain
  • skin conditions
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