What happens on my first visit?
Your first visit is a full hour: an intake and assessment, a breath-led downshift, guided hands-on reset work, a short integration, and a written plan you keep.
I feel tight everywhere and don't know where it starts. Can I still book?
Yes. Many people tell us it is "all over" or "all of the above". Your first visit starts with an assessment, so you do not have to work out where it starts on your own. Most people find it in the hips, shoulders, neck and lower back.
What if my tension is emotional as well as physical?
That is common: most people who request a first visit tell us it is a mix of both. Stress, grief and pressure often show up as tension in the hips, shoulders, neck and jaw. We work with the body and the breath. We are not a substitute for counseling or mental-health care.
Is stretch therapy the same as massage?
No. Massage works the tissue while you lie passive. Stretch therapy here is assisted stretching paired with breath-led nervous-system work, aimed at changing how your body holds tension rather than only feeling good for an hour.
Does it hurt?
No. The work is slow and paced with your breath, and your practitioner stays within what your body allows on the day.
What should I wear?
Gym or yoga clothes you can move in, and clean socks. Come hydrated and, if you can, not straight after a heavy meal.
Do you take insurance? Can I use my HSA or FSA?
We do not bill insurance. Most clients can pay with HSA or FSA funds; ask the front desk for an itemized receipt. Check coverage with your plan administrator.
Do I need to see a doctor first?
Not usually. If you are currently under the care of an orthopedist, chiropractor or physical therapist, check with them before booking.
Can I book if I have sciatica, a herniated disc or arthritis?
Often, yes, with your doctor’s OK. Tell us about any diagnosis when you book so your practitioner can adapt the work and stay within what your body allows. We do not diagnose or treat medical conditions. Sharp, shooting or worsening pain, new numbness or a recent injury needs a medical professional first.
Can I come after surgery, during pregnancy or during medical treatment?
Talk to your doctor first, then call the studio before you book. We will tell you honestly whether a session is right for you now, and plan it around your doctor’s guidance.
How is this different from physical therapy or chiropractic care?
We are not a medical practice and we do not diagnose. We take a whole-body approach: where it hurts is often not where the problem starts, so we work the whole system.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancel or reschedule at least 24 hours before your appointment at no charge. Cancellations inside 24 hours carry a late-cancellation fee, paid before your next booking. A deposit holds your spot.
Can someone help me book, or get me in this week?
Yes. Call either studio and we will find a time with you, including this week when there is space. You can also book online in about two minutes.
Do you work with runners and athletes?
Yes. Runners, lifters, former athletes and people training for a goal come to us for hips, hamstrings, calves and lower backs that stay tight through training, and for recovery between hard blocks.
Where exactly is the Bethesda studio, and is there parking?
We are at 4853 Cordell Ave, PH1, in downtown Bethesda, walkable from Bethesda Metro, with public garages on Cordell and Woodmont.
Is the Bethesda studio easy to reach from DC, Silver Spring or Rockville?
Yes. It is a short walk from Bethesda Metro on the Red Line, which runs to downtown DC, Silver Spring and Rockville. Clients also come from Chevy Chase, Gaithersburg and Arlington.
