frequently asked questions
We understand that life happens. Cancellations made 24 hours PRIOR to an appointment will not be charged.
Any cancellation made WITHIN 24 hours as well as no-shows will be charged 100% of the total service price. Meta Physica does not close during winter weather. If you are concerned about travel due to snow or rain, please contact us to cancel 24 hours before your appointment is scheduled. If you are feeling sick or have a last minute change of plans you may send another guest in your place to avoid a cancellation charge.
We are a small boutique style wellness center. We have two massage rooms and three private infrared sauna rooms. We have a staff of about 13 massage therapists who perform various types of bodywork and massage. You can find detailed information on our services and pricing, as well as staff bios in the massage section of this website.
We are a small boutique style space with two massage rooms. These rooms can be booked in tandem for two massages at the same time, but we do not offer couples massages in the same room if that’s the experience you are looking for.
Your massage therapist may require you to fill out a health history form. Afterward the therapist will begin by asking you general questions to establish what areas you would like worked on, if there are any conditions needing to be addressed, and to determine if massage is appropriate for you. Your massage therapist may perform certain assessments and testing to evaluate your condition and to see if you have any presenting complaints. It is important to list all health concerns and medications so the therapist can adapt the session to your specific needs without doing any harm. It is also important to list any allergies so the therapist is aware if they need to use a different oil or lotion during the session.
You should undress to the level you are comfortable. For a full body massage, most get completely undressed. However, if you will be more comfortable during the session you may leave your underwear on. The therapist will work around the clothes you left on as best as they can. If removing all your clothes makes you too nervous and unable to relax, then you are not getting the optimal benefit from the session.
Your massage therapist will give you privacy to undress and get comfortable on the table.
PLEASE NOTE: Clothing is worn during CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY and DEEP RELAXATION COMPRESSION SESSION.
The average full-body massage treatment lasts approximately one hour. Many people prefer a 90-minute session for optimal relaxation. Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session.
This depends on the type of massage and the depth of the strokes. A light, relaxing massage that doesn't probe very deep into the muscles, shouldn't hurt. With that being said, there is a 'feels good' hurt and an 'ouch, stop it' hurt. A good massage, even a really deep tissue massage, should always stay in the 'feels good' hurt range. Pain can be an indication that the muscle is possibly injured or inflamed and pressure should be adjusted. Also, pain can cause you to tighten up and negate the relaxing effects of the massage. The most effective and deepest massage always works with your body's natural response, not against it.
"Some is better than none."
What does that mean? Well, it varies from person to person. If you are just looking for some occasional relaxation, then a session every 3-6 weeks may be fine for you. However, if you are looking to address a specific condition, then it is recommended to go more frequently at first and then slowly taper down to a maintenance schedule. Frequent sessions can be effective until your goals are met and a maintenance schedule is in place. Frequency of sessions should be discussed with your massage therapist after your treatment when they have a better hands-on understanding of your particular muscular issues.
Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience a significant decrease or freedom from long-term aches and pains. Many feel a little slowed down for a short period and then notice an increase of energy, heightened awareness and increased productivity which can last for days. If you received a deep massage, you may be slightly sore the next day - much like a good workout at the gym. Sometimes a hot shower, or a soak in the tub can ease this soreness. After your session you should increase your water intake a bit. Just a glass or two more than normal is usually fine. This helps keep your body's tissues hydrated and healthy.
There are few conditions which would prevent you from enjoying massage. You should not book a massage if you have a fever, cold/flu, or contagious skin infection. There are many other conditions in which your therapist may need to adapt their techniques (i.e. arthritis or osteoporosis) or avoid an area completely (i.e. cuts or burns). With some conditions it is a good idea to get an approval from your physician before you receive massage (cancer, certain heart conditions, pregnancy). This doesn't mean you can't get massage. But it is always better to err on the side of caution.
Your therapist can advise you about your specific needs.
Children ages 15-17 years of age can be massaged with a parent present in the room at all times. Please call to book your child’s massage and let us know in advance so we can place them with an appropriate therapist. Deep tissue, cupping or aromatherapy will not be applied during this session.
We offer 60 minute prenatal massage sessions right up to your due date.
We do not allow people who are pregnant to use our saunas. After birth, guests my use our saunas.
Meta Physica previously had an operational juice bar but it did not reopen after lockdown. We currently offer bottled juice from The Raw Juicery.
Raw Juicery is based in LA. They use high quality ingredients, cold pressed. We order once per week and the company ships it to us fresh overnight.
You may visit us during open hours to purchase a hard copy gift certificate, or you may purchase a digital gift card online via the booking app on our website.
We require a valid debit or credit card to be on file even if you are using a gift card. We never charge until after your appointment is finished - so you can bring your gift card with you on the day of your appointment and we will reduce the total at checkout.
Gift cards can be applied to any type of service at Meta Physica - massage, sauna, etc. As well as used toward gratuity or for the purchasing of products.
We are located in Corktown at the corner of Trumbull and Bagley in a multi-use building that is also home to Folk and Mink.
There is free street parking on Trumbull and Bagley. If you prefer secure parking there is a parking garage one block north on Trumbull and Church st.
We do not accept medical insurance. Some insurance companies will reimburse clients for massage therapy with a receipt; however, please check with your insurance provider.
If you have left an item behind we ask that you pick up your item(s) as soon as possible due to the small size of our space. We hold items for 14 days total.
Meta Physica Wellness Center is not responsible for any items left behind by clients.
