LGBTQ+ Friendly Wellness Services That Fit Your Life

Booking a massage with Soothe is simple. We want to give you full peace of mind from start to finish. You start by choosing your preferred massage style (Swedish, Deep Tissue, Sports, Reflexology, and more!), add any preferences to that service, and check out your cart!

Soothe offers easy scheduling and flexible options that adjust to fit your life. If you’re planning a relaxing date night or preparing for an important event, you can select a wellness service from our app and enjoy it from the comfort of home. All providers will bring the necessary products for your appointment, meaning you just have to stay hydrated and set the vibe to prepare for the experience.

Each massage is built around your needs. That includes the option to choose your therapist, define your goals for the session, and get support from a team that understands how meaningful it is to feel respected and seen. 

Why Soothe is a Smart Choice

With Soothe, a licensed, background-checked professional will arrive at your home with a massage table, clean linens, and all necessary supplies.

Every Soothe appointment is shaped around your needs.. This ensures a comfortable and affirming experience from the beginning.

Safety and professionalism are non-negotiable. Soothe enforces a strict Zero Tolerance Policy, which prohibits inappropriate conduct of any kind from either clients or therapists. This policy supports a safe, respectful environment where all clients—including those in the LGBTQ+ community—can feel confident receiving care.

You can expect the same high standards every time: a personalized session, thoughtful communication, and wellness delivered with care and integrity.

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What Happens to Your Muscles During a Golf Swing?

Most of your body is engaged when you swing a golf club. From your shoulders, which provide power during a swing to your core, driving that momentum into a club head, a lot is going on. It can also impact your forearms and lower back, which can lead to stiffness if done repeatedly. Intense muscle contractions are occurring followed by a sudden release, which while it may sound like you’re getting a good workout in, can cause micro-tears and fatigue. 

Common Injuries for Golfers

Proper recovery techniques are essential to rebuild your strength and mitigate body stiffness. Here are some common injuries to look out for:

1. Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis):

A golfer’s elbow is a common overuse injury that is caused by repetitive gripping, swinging, and wrist flexion during a golf swing. It results in inflammation of the tendons that attach to the inside of your elbow. Symptoms include pain and tenderness on the inner elbow, weakness in grip strength, and a sensation of stiffness or ache that can extend down the forearm. Without proper recovery and treatment, a golfer’s elbow can significantly impact your performance and comfort while partaking in the sport.

2. Lower Back Strain

The rotational forces required for a strong golf swing often put stress on the lower back, particularly if proper form and posture aren’t maintained. Without proper form, you may experience muscle strains, ligament sprains, or even more serious conditions such as herniated discs. Lower back strain manifests as pain during or after a play, with stiffness, and difficulty in bending or twisting. Addressing these issues early with proper care can help prevent chronic pain and long-term injury.

3. Shoulder Impingements

Repetitive overhead movements and excessive rotation during the golf swing can lead to impingement of the shoulder tendons, particularly in the rotator cuff. An impingement results in pain, reduced range of motion, and weakness in the shoulder, often worsening over time if left untreated. Shoulder impingements can interfere with a golfer’s ability to execute a full, smooth swing.

Preventative Measures for Golfing Injuries

Incorporating regular warm-ups, maintaining proper posture, and focusing on core and flexibility exercises can help mitigate these injuries. Recovery tools like massage therapy are also critical for reducing muscle tension and inflammation, promoting healing, and preventing further strain.

Integrating Theragun® percussive therapy into your wellness routine not only supports injury prevention but also helps you in the recovery process, ensuring you’re always at your best on the links.

When in doubt about your preventative injury or recovery routine, consult your physician for guidance on what is best for you.

How a Massage Benefits Golfers

Golfing targets several major muscle groups in the body. Here are a few ways a massage for golfers can help performance, whether you’re preparing for a tournament or looking to wind down after golfing.

Pain Relief

A massage can help reduce muscle soreness from the repetitive movement of swinging a club and using the same muscle groups over and over.

Injury Prevention

By getting massages regularly, golfers can address tightness that could turn into strains or sprains early on. This also improves muscle elasticity and joint mobility.

Improves Flexibility

Massages can increase your body’s range of motion, relaxing tightened muscles, which can optimize your swing on the golf course.

Massage Therapy for Golfers

At Soothe, we understand the unique physical demands that golfers face and offer specialized sports massage services to support your recovery and performance. Our licensed massage therapists are trained to address muscle groups commonly affected by golfing, such as the forearms, shoulders, and lower back. By focusing on these areas, our sports massages aim to reduce muscle soreness, alleviate tension, and improve flexibility, all of which are crucial for an optimal swing. 

To improve the effectiveness of our treatments, Soothe offers percussive therapy using Theragun®, a device that delivers rapid, targeted pulses to deep muscle tissues. This approach is particularly effective for addressing golfer’s elbow, helping to alleviate pain, reduce stiffness, and improve your range of motion, ensuring a faster and more focused recovery.

Booking a massage with Soothe is convenient and tailored to your schedule. With flexible scheduling options, you can easily incorporate regular massages into your routine, ensuring consistent care and support for your golfing activities, no matter the time of year.

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The question here is: who do you go to first?

Chiropractic care and massage therapy may seem similar, as they both can target movements on one’s back and neck to relieve pain, tightness, or discomfort in those areas. They are quite different, however. In short, chiropractors focus more on addressing the spine and manipulating its alignment while massage therapists focus more on the muscles and connective tissues.

If you are still determining who to start with for your neck, shoulder, or back discomfort, we put together a short guide that goes more in-depth about the differences between chiropractors vs. massage therapists. We also recommend the types of massage that may suit your needs to relieve your own discomfort.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic treatment is a physical, noninvasive approach formulated to restore one’s natural range of movement. The focus of this treatment method is on your spine, joints, and musculoskeletal system. This is a drug-free alternative to approaching pain and discomfort in the body.

The goal of chiropractic care is to address any misalignments in the spine that could be pinching nerves. After this treatment, the body can balance to fix itself. The theory here is that messages from the brain cannot be transmitted properly when their connection is disrupted by misalignment. There is also concern that this could cause lasting health issues if not addressed appropriately. 

A chiropractor will create personalized treatment plans to address one’s unique concerns and needs. This can include one-on-one help with props, the chiropractor’s hands, or movement-based exercises to address sources of pain. An experienced chiropractor should be able to establish a regimen with you that fits your lifestyle. 

State regulatory boards work with the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) to set licensing requirements. In most cases, licensing for chiropractors requires a more extensive educational and medical background compared to massage therapists. This makes them an alternative-medicine option to consider if you are unsure of the source of your pain.

Benefits of Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is a physical, hands-on approach that focuses more on a patient’s muscles and soft tissues. This is typically accompanied by oils and lotions on the body to help relieve muscle tension, pain, and stiffness.

The focus of massage therapy is to provide pain relief and reduce tension. By massaging the muscles, a therapist can improve blood flow to the affected area, which aids recovery. Think of this process as untwisting a tangle in a piece of string or jewelry. There are various methods to manually target where one feels tension to relieve pains or spasms directly at the source. It is common for practitioners to have many techniques mastered, and that is something that can be directly inquired about before an appointment to ensure the provider has the tools and techniques needed to address your specific concerns.

In most states, massage therapists need a license to practice. Licensing requirements may vary, from 500-1000 of training hours required, passing a background check, earning a diploma from an accredited school or program, and passing the Massage & Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx). 

With Soothe, your peace of mind is our top priority and we’re proud to have partnered with EvidentID, the trusted solution for our vetting process.

Our community can rest easy knowing that each independent Provider who uses the Soothe platform is fully licensed, insured, and has passed a thorough background check.

Who Should I See For Neck or Back Pain?

This is up to you and your condition. If the pain is severe, a trip to your primary care physician may be necessary. When it comes to a chiropractor vs massage for lower back pain or neck pain, it depends on your source of discomfort.

In some cases, both can go hand in hand to support your treatment needs for pain relief. While a massage can physically relax your muscles and leave you feeling mentally at peace, a chiropractor may help with longer-term effects.

Since a massage is non-invasive, you may experience some relief from your pain with regular massage therapy. The type of massage that you choose may depend on your level of experience and whether your pain is symptomatic of an actual injury. For instance, a Swedish massage, the most common type of Western massage therapy, is relatively gentle, but can help release tension in your muscles, improve circulation, and ease back pain.

Those who are new to massage may find a Swedish massage ideal. It is widely available, and you can find a therapist who can come to you wherever it may fit into your schedule. While this method is primarily for relaxation, it should be noted that the benefits felt immediately after a massage may diminish over time, and regular massages can help with that.

With those who are more experienced with massages and comfortable with more pressure, a deep-tissue massage may suit your needs. Deep tissue massage is a more intense massage experience that reaches the deepest layers of your muscle tissue. You may find more relief with deep tissue massage over time since it works to release chronically tense areas.

If you’re ready to take the first step with a massage, Soothe is here to help you manage your pain and feel better.

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Reflexology (zone therapy) is an alternative therapy method that applies pressure to specific points of the body, such as hands, feet, or ears, to allow the body to relax. This pressure can be varied and targeted to the recipient’s needs.

Though reflexology involves the use of hands, it is not considered a form of massage therapy, technically speaking. Similar to acupressure, reflexology is a complementary therapy that can be used alongside traditional medical treatments. It’s important to note that reflexologists do not diagnose or treat medical conditions; they work to support overall wellness.

How Does Reflexology Work?

In a reflexology session, a practitioner called a reflexologist will apply pressure to various pressure points around the body to improve overall health and wellness.

There are several theories regarding what makes reflexology work. 

One theory comes from traditional Chinese medicine’s belief that the human body is made up of qi, or vital energy. Stress and other negative emotions can block qi, which results in an imbalance of emotional, mental, physical, or spiritual health. Where reflexology comes into play is that there is a belief that it can balance qi.³

A modern theory suggests that reflexology can balance the way that your brain registers pain. When these pressure points are massaged, these relaxing sensations could relieve stress, which can impact the way that you perceive pain.²

A 19th century theory proposes that reflexology stimulates the nervous system. By pressing on various pressure points on the body, it can send messages to the central nervous system. This can help the body relax, and provide various benefits for you.¹

While there are several schools of thought studying reflexology, a 2014 paper claims that reflexology is not a legitimate treatment for any medical condition.⁶

What Can Reflexology Do for You?

Reflexology is something that can be generally applied as an alternative therapy for most conditions. When in doubt, always consult your medical team before booking an appointment.

Potential Benefits of Reflexology

Relaxation

A study shows that a five-minute foot massage resulted in a significant reduction in heart rate and blood pressure, potentially increasing relaxation.⁸

Improved Nerve Functioning

Reflexology can bridge to the central nervous system, targeting and improving what information flows to and from different areas of the body.¹

Healthier Sleep Quality

Balancing the body’s sleep cycle, reflexology can stimulate the nervous system and endocrine glands, allowing people to get more regular sleep.⁵

Stress-Induced Tension Headache Relief

With reflexology’s relaxation qualities, it has been found that this can be extended to improve results on stress-induced conditions, such as tension headaches.⁷

Improvements to Pain Management

By targeting specific areas on the body, the pressure from reflexology can address pain by targeting associated pressure points. This can, for example, include toe reflex point focuses for headache relief, and heel pressure to improve lower back pain.⁴

What Happens During a Reflexology Session?

When it comes to preparing for a reflexology session, just make sure that you are clean and hydrated. Wearing comfortable clothes will also improve your session.

At the beginning of your reflexology session, your reflexologist will begin by asking you questions about your health, diet, lifestyle, and any known conditions. These answers will guide them in developing a specific plan regarding working on particular pressure points in your feet, hands, ears, or a combination of them.

The location will be a soothing one, similar to a spa. Think low lights, soft music, and possibly aromatherapy. You’ll wear something comfortable, and sit back to let the reflexologist do their work. They will be working various pressure points with pressure application, rotation, and finger walking, to name a few methods.

Here’s what they can be looking for when it comes to pressure point work focusing on the feet:

In the foot reflexology chart above, you can see that there are precise mapped spots that reflexologists manipulate in order to meet your wellness goals. Each foot is typically worked on equally during your session.

These sessions are typically 30-60 minutes long, and you will likely leave with a sense of relaxation. Frequency can be determined by what is best for you, which for some may be weekly, others monthly, and even quarterly.

After your session, there really isn’t that much of a recovery time following foot reflexology. Any minor effects such as feeling tired or increased emotions is common, but temporary.

While there is more to be studied and understood about what reflexology is and how reflexology works, the benefits of a self-care routine can improve the quality of life for the recipient immensely.

Soothe has a network of independent reflexologist Pros that can come to your home, hotel, or office to give you the relaxation you need, any day of the week. Book an in-home reflexology massage today. 

Bibliography

1.Begum J. Brain Diseases. WebMD. Published 2024. https://www.webmd.com/brain/brain-diseases
2.Hayes J, Cox C. Immediate effects of a five-minute foot massage on patients in critical care. Intensive and Critical Care Nursing. 1999;15(2):77-82. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/s0964-3397(99)80003-2
3.National Cancer Institute. Complementary and Alternative Medicine. National Cancer Institute. Published May 22, 2024. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/cam
4.Eghbali M, Safari R, Nazari F, Abdoli S. The effects of reflexology on chronic low back pain intensity in nurses employed in hospitals affiliated with Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research. 2012;17(3):239-243. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3696219/
5.Huang H, Chen K, Kuo S, Chen I. Can foot reflexology be a complementary therapy for sleep disturbances? Evidence appraisal through a meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials. Journal of Advanced Nursing. 2020;77(4). doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/jan.14699
6.McCullough JEM, Liddle SD, Sinclair M, Close C, Hughes CM. The Physiological and Biochemical Outcomes Associated with a Reflexology Treatment: A Systematic Review. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2014;2014:1-16. doi:https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/502123
7.Quinn C, Chandler C, Moraska A. Massage Therapy and Frequency of Chronic Tension Headaches. American Journal of Public Health. 2002;92(10):1657-1661. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1447303/
8.Wang WL, Hung HY, Chen YR, et al. Effect of Foot Reflexology Intervention on Depression, Anxiety, and Sleep Quality in Adults: A Meta-Analysis and Metaregression of Randomized Controlled Trials. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2020;2020:1-21. doi:https://doi.org/10.1155/2020/2654353

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One of the greatest benefits of in-home massage is that there’s no need to travel to receive a spa-quality massage. By ordering a massage to your home, you skip the inconvenience (and the frustration) of parking and driving immediately before or after a massage. Another benefit of enjoying a massage in the comfort of your home is that you can truly customize your experience. Whether you live in an expansive single-family home or a modest studio apartment, you can transform your home into a soothing oasis tailored perfectly to your taste.

Though a massage is sure to be a relaxing experience, there are several ways you can create a relaxing space by preparing for a massage in your home. We compiled our top seven tips to make your at-home massage prep easy

1. Set Aside Space

Clear six feet of space any place in your home that you feel comfortable. This can be in your living room, bedroom, or even backyard. Wherever you decide to set up, make sure that there will be sufficient space for the massage table and massage therapist to move around it. When preparing for massage, you’ll want to make sure your chosen spot is free from distractions like the TV, pets, and other family members so you can truly relax.

2. Give Yourself Privacy

Draw the curtains or blinds in the room you plan on getting your massage in so that you have complete privacy. If you have other family members at home with you, give them a heads up not to bother you until after your massage is complete. When your therapist is finished setting up, they will step into the restroom to wash their hands, giving you privacy to disrobe to your level of comfort and position yourself on the table. Please note, Soothe does not allow fully nude massages.

3. Take A Shower

As part of our Soothe Safe program, we ask that you please shower prior to your therapist’s arrival. Showering before your massage is an important part of upholding our community wellness standards. It also helps in preparing for massage, as the hot water will warm up your muscles and help you feel more refreshed and relaxed. Your therapist will appreciate your consideration, too!

4. Put On Comfortable Clothing

After you’ve showered, indulge in comfortable non-constricting clothing that you can remove easily when it’s time for your massage. Wearing a robe before and after your massage is always a treat. Our Soothe Swedish Robe is the perfect all-season option, with its textured, breathable fabric and comfortable kimono style. If you don’t have a robe, sweats are always a good option.

5. Check In With Your Body

When preparing for massage, take a moment before your session starts to scan your body, starting at the top of your head and extending to the tips of your toes. Do you feel any pain, tension, or stress in specific areas of your body? If so, be sure to tell your therapist so that they can focus on these problem areas.

Consider hydrating and eating a light meal before your massage. This can help you maximize your experience and relax your muscles during the massage. Avoid eating a heavy meal when preparing for a massage at home as it could be uncomfortable, but consider having a meal after the experience to unwind.

6. Silence Your Phone

Make sure to put your phone on silent or do-not-disturb once your therapist arrives. Hearing phone notifications or vibrations will distract your from truly relaxing during your massage.

7. Set the Mood

The final touch to creating a spa day at home is to emulate a spa experience. Our Soothe therapists come prepared with aromatherapy, oils, and music, but they are happy to use your products or music if you prefer. Lighting a candle can make your at-home massage experience a little more luxurious.

Now that you’ve transformed your home into a relaxation-ready oasis, get ready to unwind during your massage and learn how to stay relaxed long after your therapist says goodbye. Preparing for a massage in your home is simple and will make your massage that much more enjoyable.

Ready to book an at-home massage with Soothe? Our top-rated, independent professional massage therapists are available in your area. Book a massage appointment with Soothe today.

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