General Questions
What type of services does Starshine Offer?
Starshine Wellness offers personalized bodywork designed to support relaxation, pain and tension relief, nervous-system regulation, and overall well-being. Services include Therapeutic Massage, Rest & Reset Massage, Quiet Mind Massage, WATSU® Aquatic Bodywork, energy-based bodywork, and other specialty treatments and add-ons. Each session is tailored to you rather than following a one-size-fits-all routine. Not sure which service is right for you? You’re always welcome to reach out or schedule a Meet & Connect Consultation before booking.
How do I book an appointment?
Starshine Wellness currently accepts clients by request or referral so that I can make sure the services I offer are a good fit for what you’re looking for. You can submit an appointment request through the website or contact me directly. We’ll talk briefly about what you’re looking for, and I’ll help you choose the service that best fits your needs. If you’d like to meet first, you can also schedule a Meet & Connect Consultation with no pressure to book a full session.
What is a Meet & Connect Consultation?
The Meet & Connect Consultation is a short, low-pressure opportunity to visit the studio, meet me, ask questions, and get a feel for Starshine before committing to a full bodywork session. We can talk about what brings you in, any concerns or preferences you have, and which services may be a good fit for you. You can also see the treatment space and learn more about how I approach massage and bodywork. This can be especially helpful if you’re new to massage, have had uncomfortable experiences with bodywork in the past, feel unsure about what type of session you need, or simply prefer to meet your therapist first.
Does Starshine offer mobile services?
Yes. Mobile Wellness Services are available by request for select massage and bodywork sessions. Depending on the service and location, I may be able to bring the Starshine experience to your home or another appropriate private space. Mobile WATSU® sessions may also be available when there is access to a suitable heated pool. Because every location is different, please contact me to discuss your space, location, scheduling, and any applicable travel fees.
What is WATSU®
Aquatic Bodywork?
WATSU® is a gentle form of aquatic bodywork performed in warm water. During a session, your body is supported while I guide you through slow movements, stretches, stillness, and gentle bodywork. The warmth and support of the water can create a deeply relaxing experience and allow the body to move in ways that may feel very different from massage on a table. You do not need to know how to swim, and your face remains above the water. Your comfort and sense of safety guide the entire session.
Where are you located?
Starshine Wellness is located inside Living Wellness A.I.M. in Boise, Idaho. There is plenty of free parking on the left side of the building, which is also where you’ll find the entrance closest to the Starshine studio. You’re welcome to park directly in front of my door when space is available. You can also enter through the Living Wellness A.I.M. main entrance, and their team can direct you to my studio. Because Starshine operates by appointment, please schedule or contact me before stopping by.
What are your hours?
Starshine Wellness is available by appointment only. Because I keep a limited schedule so I can give each client my full attention, availability may vary from week to week. Current appointment times can be viewed through the booking page, or you’re always welcome to reach out to ask about upcoming availability.
Is parking available?
Yes! Free parking is available right outside the studio. You’ll find parking along the left side of the building, which is also where the entrance closest to the Starshine studio is located. When available, you’re welcome to park directly in front of my door. You can also park near the main entrance of Living Wellness A.I.M. and come through the front doors. Their team will be happy to direct you to the Starshine studio.
What forms of payment do you accept?
Starshine Wellness accepts cash and major credit or debit cards. Payment is due at the time of your appointment unless other arrangements have been made in advance. If you’re participating in a pre-arranged service or wellness trade, those details will be discussed and agreed upon before your appointment.
What is your
cancellation policy?
I understand that life happens and sometimes plans need to change. If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, I ask that you please provide at least 24 hours’ notice whenever possible. Cancellations with less than 24 hours’ notice and missed appointments may be subject to a cancellation fee. I also understand that illnesses, emergencies, and unexpected circumstances happen, and those situations will always be approached with understanding. If you’re feeling unwell, please reach out. We can decide together whether rescheduling your session is the best choice.
Do you offer gift certificates?
Yes! Starshine Wellness gift certificates are available for those who would like to give someone the gift of intentional rest and bodywork. Gift certificates can be used toward eligible Starshine Wellness services. Because sessions are personalized and appointments are accepted by request or referral, the recipient will still have an opportunity to connect with me before scheduling their first session. If you’re purchasing for someone who has never been to Starshine before, I’m happy to help you choose an appropriate gift amount without requiring you to select a specific service for them.
Before your session
What should I wear to my appointment?
Come in whatever you feel comfortable wearing. There’s no need to dress a certain way for your appointment. For massage, you’ll have privacy to undress to your personal comfort level before getting onto the table. You are always welcome to leave on as much clothing as you prefer.
Should I shower before my massage?
A shower is not required before your appointment. Normal everyday hygiene is perfectly fine, and there’s no need to rush home from work or rearrange your day just to shower before coming in. If you’ve just finished a particularly sweaty workout or activity, a quick shower beforehand is appreciated when possible.
Do I need to shave before my massage?
Not at all. There is absolutely no need to shave before your appointment. Body hair is completely normal and does not interfere with massage. Please come as you are and don’t worry about shaving your legs, underarms, or any other area before your session.
Is there anything I should avoid doing right before my massage?
It’s also best to avoid alcohol or other intoxicating substances before your session. Otherwise, there’s no special preparation needed. Drink water as you normally would and come ready to settle in.
How early should I arrive?
For your first appointment, arriving about 5–10 minutes early gives you time to get settled without feeling rushed. If you’ve been to Starshine before and your intake information is up to date, arriving a few minutes before your scheduled appointment time is perfect.
Do I need to fill out any forms before my appointment?
Yes. New clients will be asked to complete an intake form before their first session. This gives me important information about your preferences, health history, areas of concern, and what you’re hoping to get from your session. Whenever possible, completing your forms ahead of time allows us to spend more of your appointment focused on you rather than paperwork.
Do I need to undress for my massage, and will I be covered?
You only undress to your level of comfort. Some clients remove all or most of their clothing, while others prefer to leave certain items on. Either is completely okay. You will be appropriately draped with a sheet and blanket throughout your massage. Only the area currently being worked on will be uncovered, and your privacy and comfort are always a priority.
Can I bring someone with me to my appointment?
Yes. If having a trusted person with you would help you feel more comfortable, please let me know before your appointment. Depending on the session and available space, they may be able to join us during the initial conversation or remain nearby. We can talk beforehand about what would make you feel most at ease while still allowing you to fully enjoy your session.
What if I’m nervous, have questions, or need something changed during my session?
Please tell me! Your session is a collaboration, and you are always allowed to ask questions, change your mind, or request an adjustment at any point. That might mean changing the pressure, skipping an area, adjusting the temperature or music, taking a break, or stopping the session altogether. You never need to “tough it out” or worry about hurting my feelings. If you’re nervous before your first appointment, that’s okay too. We’ll take some time to talk before we begin so you know what to expect and can tell me what would help you feel comfortable.
What if I’m self-conscious about my body?
You do not need to look a certain way, be a certain size, or feel completely confident about your body to receive massage. My focus is on providing thoughtful, professional care—not evaluating or judging your body. You’ll remain appropriately draped throughout your session, and we can always adjust positioning, bolstering, or how we approach the session to help you feel more comfortable. You are welcome here exactly as you are.
What if it’s been a long time since I’ve had a massage—or I’ve never had one?
That’s completely okay! You don’t need any experience with massage or bodywork before coming to Starshine. Before we begin, we’ll talk about what to expect, what you’re comfortable with, and what you’d like from your session. You’re encouraged to ask questions at any point, and we can take things at a pace that feels comfortable for you. There’s no “right” way to receive a massage.
During your session
Should I talk during my massage, or is it okay to be quiet?
Either is completely okay. Some people enjoy chatting, while others prefer to close their eyes and enjoy the quiet. I’ll follow your lead. I may check in occasionally about pressure or comfort, but you never need to make conversation or worry about filling the silence. This is your time to rest.
What if the pressure is too much—or not enough?
Please tell me. Pressure is very personal, and what feels good can even change from one area of your body to another. You can ask for more or less pressure at any time. Speaking up isn’t an interruption—it helps me give you a session that actually feels good and meets your needs.
Can I ask you to stop working on a certain area?
Absolutely. You can change your mind at any point during your session. If an area feels uncomfortable, sensitive, or you simply don’t want it worked on, just let me know. We can move to another area, change the technique, or skip it entirely. You never need to explain or justify your decision.
What if I need to change positions or move around?
Go ahead! You don’t need to stay perfectly still. If you need to adjust your head, stretch your fingers, move your legs, scratch an itch, or change your position, you’re welcome to do so. If you’re uncomfortable and aren’t sure how to reposition yourself while staying properly draped, just let me know and I’ll help.
What if I need to use the restroom during my session?
No problem. We can pause the session at any time so you can use the restroom. Please don’t spend the rest of your massage uncomfortable because you’re worried about interrupting the session. Your comfort comes first.
Is it okay if I fall asleep?
Yes—and it happens all the time! Falling asleep can simply mean that you’ve become deeply relaxed. There’s no need to apologize if you fall asleep, snore, or wake yourself up. You don’t have to stay awake to “get the most” out of your massage. Just rest.
What if I feel emotional during my massage?
Sometimes slowing down and receiving caring touch can bring emotions to the surface. You might feel peaceful, unexpectedly emotional, or simply notice feelings you hadn’t been paying much attention to. You don’t need to apologize or explain. We can continue quietly, pause, change what we’re doing, or end the session if that’s what you need. There is space for you to simply be.
Can I ask to change the music, temperature, lighting, or table warmer?
Definitely. If you’re too warm, too cold, don’t like the music, need another blanket, want the table warmer adjusted, or would prefer a different environment, please tell me. Those little details can make a big difference in your ability to relax, and I’m happy to adjust what I can.
What if something feels uncomfortable or I change my mind during the session?
Please speak up whenever something doesn’t feel right—whether it’s a technique, position, pressure, area being worked on, or simply a feeling that you’d like to stop. Consent is ongoing throughout your entire session. Saying yes to something at the beginning doesn’t mean you have to continue with it. We can adjust, pause, or stop at any time.
Do I need to help you move my arms, legs, or body during the massage?
Usually, no. When I’m gently moving or repositioning an arm or leg, you can allow it to relax and let me support its weight. If I need you to move or change positions yourself, I’ll let you know. And if you’re ever unsure what I’m asking you to do, please ask. There’s no need to guess!
What if I don’t know what I need?
That’s completely okay. You don’t need to know which technique you need, how much pressure is “right,” or exactly where your tension is coming from. Part of my role is to listen, pay attention to how your body responds, and adapt the session as we go. I may check in with you along the way, and you can always tell me what feels good, what doesn’t, or simply say, “I’m not sure.” You don’t have to figure everything out before you can relax. We’ll work together to create a session that feels right for you that day.
After your session
How might I feel after my massage?
You may leave feeling deeply relaxed, refreshed, sleepy, energized, or simply a little different than when you arrived. There isn’t one “right” way to feel after a massage. If possible, give yourself a few minutes before jumping right back into a busy day. Move slowly, notice how your body feels, and give yourself a little time to transition.
Is it normal to feel sore after a massage?
Mild tenderness or soreness can sometimes happen, particularly after more focused or deeper work. However, you do not need to be sore for a massage to have been effective. Soreness should generally be mild and temporary. If you experience significant, unusual, or persistent pain after your session, please reach out to me and seek appropriate medical care when needed.
Do I need to drink extra water after my massage?
There’s no need to force yourself to drink large amounts of water or “flush out toxins” after a massage. Simply hydrate normally and listen to your body. If you’re thirsty, have some water. Keeping yourself comfortably hydrated is a good everyday habit, massage or not.
Should I exercise or work out after my massage?
Gentle movement, such as walking or easy stretching, can feel wonderful after a massage. If you’ve had deeper or more focused bodywork, you may prefer to save an intense workout for another time. Pay attention to how you feel and give your body permission to rest if that’s what it’s asking for.
Is there anything I should avoid after my session?
There aren’t many strict rules after a massage. When possible, avoid immediately jumping into anything that feels overly strenuous or stressful, especially if you’re feeling deeply relaxed. Take your time getting up, eat and hydrate normally, and give yourself a little space to enjoy that post-massage feeling.
What can I do at home to help the benefits of my massage last longer?
Usually, simple is best. Gentle movement, comfortable stretching, warmth, rest, good sleep, and paying attention to your body can all be helpful between sessions. If I notice something during your massage that may benefit from a little extra care, I may offer simple between-session suggestions tailored to you.
What if I notice pain or discomfort after my massage?
A little temporary tenderness can occur, but significant pain shouldn’t simply be dismissed as part of getting a massage. If something doesn’t feel right after your session, you’re welcome to contact me. Depending on what you’re experiencing, I may also encourage you to check in with your physician or another qualified healthcare professional.
How often should I schedule a massage?
There isn’t one schedule that works for everyone. Some clients enjoy massage as part of a regular wellness routine, while others schedule when they notice they need a little extra support. We can talk about your goals, how your body responds to massage, your schedule, and your budget to determine what feels realistic and beneficial for you. There’s never pressure to book more frequently than feels right.
When should I book my next appointment?
You’re welcome to book your next appointment before you leave or wait until you know when you’d like to return. If you prefer a particular day or appointment time, booking ahead can make it easier to get the time you want, especially since Starshine has limited weekly availability.
What if I have a question or concern after I leave?
Please reach out. I want you to feel comfortable communicating with me before, during, and after your session. Whether you have a question about something you’re feeling, want clarification about an aftercare suggestion, or simply want to share how your body responded to the session, you’re always welcome to get in touch.
Am I expected to leave a tip?
Gratuity is always appreciated, but it is never expected or required. My priority is for you to receive the care you need without feeling any additional pressure at the end of your session. If you’d like to show your appreciation, a tip is welcome, but so is leaving a review, referring someone to Starshine, or simply coming back when you’re ready for another session. Most importantly, I want you to leave feeling cared for—not wondering whether you did something “right” at checkout.