Frequently Asked Questions

Trying something new can be scary, so I want to put you at ease as much as I can. 

Have a question that isn't answered here? Please contact me and I will answer it for you.

How should I prepare for my first treatment?

Before your first session, you will be asked to complete two online forms that your therapist will email, unless you're unable to recieve email, in which case you will simply fill them out when you arrive for your appointment. It is recommended that you hydrate well the day leading up to your massage. Be sure to use the restroom beforehand if you feel like that might be an issue. There are restrooms onsight. And, remember to breathe and slow down as you make your way to your appointment. We want to calm the nervous system to reap the healing benefits, not stress it out! I allow time in my day for you to make the time in your busy day... please don't rush on my account!



How do I schedule a massage?

When you select 'Online Booking' at the top of this page, it will take you to a list of services you can choose from. Once you've made your selection, you may indicate which day and time you'd prefer and I will do my best to accomodate. You can expect to hear from me within 24-48 hours. If it is an emergency, please let me know so I can respond as soon as possible. You can also contact me directly by email (amy@vitalflowcu.com) or phone (217.766.4828).



Are there forms to complete?

Yes! As a Licensed Massage Therapist, I am required to have your signed consent before I can initiate services. I would also like to know more about you! The information you provide on the intake form allows me to gain insight into what is going on for you and how I can best be of hellp. You may provide as much or as little personal information as you want. In response to Covid-19, I also require special consent for treatment as well as answers to a few standard questions in order to keep everyone safe. These forms can be found in the ‘FAQ' drop-down menu under ‘Forms & Policies’. They are both online. When you schedule an appointment, your therapist will plan on sending you the links directly, unless you complete them prior. If you are unable to complete these online before your session for whatever reason, it is not a problem; your therapist will have you complete them when you arrive for your appointment.



What can I expect once I arrive for my massage?

When you arrive, you will be greeted by your therapist who will escort you to the treatment room. Since you will have already shared much of your information on the intake form prior to your session, your therapist will briefly go over any areas of concern, giving you an opportunity to discuss things further and ask questions. Once the initial conversation is over, your therapist will step out of the room so that you can disrobe and lay down on the table. During a massage, clients are draped appropriately with a sheet and blanket so you may remove your clothes to a level you are comfortable with knowing you will not be exposed. Organic, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic massage gel is applied to the skin during massage. Unlike certain other places that offer massage, you can expect to receive whatever you paid for in full. In other words, when you pay for a 60 minute massage at Vital Flow, it will always be at least 60 minutes (or even a bit longer). You can also expect to enjoy your massage in peace and quiet. One of the ways our bodies heal is by getting the mind to shut off which cannot happen with endless conversation. At Vital Flow, your therapist is committed to helping you let yourself let go with the aid of soothing background sounds and music.



Do you accept insurance?

Not at this time. For those who find that the regular service rates fall outside of their budget, Vital Flow does offer special rates through our 'Wellness For All' fund that anyone may apply for. You can find more information on the 'Wellness For All' page.



What are some of the benefits of massage?

Massage increases circulation by encouraging blood to be distributed throughout the body. It also helps move lymph which is involved with our immune system across nodes where it goes to be filtered out and recirculated. Because of its ability to calm the central nervous system, massage can help improve sleep and aid in repair to the CNS. This is also why it can be helpful to those dealing with symptoms of trauma and other stress and anxiety related conditions. In addition, massage helps break up adhesions which is scar tissue that develops from repetetive activity or injury and is made of dense fibrous tissue within a muscle. These fibers fuse together, limiting movement and often creating pain and/or weakness. As a result, other problems or injuries may begin to arise, including nutritional deficiencies or imbalances, infection causing inflammation, and other inflammatory conditions like arthritis or age-related diseases. Because everything in the body is connected, dysfunction in one area often leads to pain or dysfunction elsewhere in the body leading to chronic conditions that can by harder to treat.



Where are you located?

1210 E. Main in Urbana, Illinois. We are inside Pure Being Wellness Center, which shares a parking lot with The Little Red Dog House (dog groomer). The building is located across the street from VFW Post 630.



What are your hours of operation?

Vital Flow operates by appointment only. That means that if you wish to schedule an appointment, you can indicate a preferred day and time and I will do my best to accomodate.



I'm interested in hoop lessons. What do I need to know about that?

Hoop lessons are scheduled by appointment. You and your instructor will discuss a time that works best. Lessons are about an hour long. There can be flexibility on the location of lessons - all we need is enough space, hula hoops and music. Generally, however, lessons may be held at Pure Being wellness center, where my practice is based. There are both indoor and outdoor options available there. Hula hoops and music are provided. All you need to bring is yourself and perhaps your own water to stay hydrated. Be sure to dress comfortably and where supportive shoes - unless opting for bare feet. Consider inviting a friend to join you and imagine the fun you'll have!