Welcome to Alma Massage
a space to reconnect with
your body, calm your mind
and nourish your soul.

How do I book a massage?

You can book online, or contact me by SMS/WhatsApp on 021 256 662 or email c.pinto1402@gmail.com.

Bookings are essential as Alma Massage is not a walk-in studio.

I am usually with a client and unable to answer calls during treatments. If I don’t answer, please leave a message or send me a text/WhatsApp and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

What can I expect from my first visit?

Your first visit begins with a conversation about you—not just your muscles.

We will discuss what has brought you in, how your body has been feeling and what you would like from your treatment.

Then I listen through my hands and allow your body to guide the session. There is no fixed routine—your pressure, preferences, boundaries and needs all form part of the treatment.

Every body is different, and no two massages need to be the same.

Your massage is a conversation between your body and my hands.

How do I know which massage to book?

Don’t worry if you’re unsure. Book the treatment that sounds right for you and we can adapt it on the day.

Before we begin, we will talk about how you’re feeling, any areas of tension and what you would like from your session. I don’t simply follow a fixed sequence. I listen to your body and allow my hands to guide the treatment, adapting the pressure and techniques to what you need that day.

Your preferences and boundaries are always respected. If you don’t like having your feet, face, head, abdomen or any other area touched, simply let me know. You have the say in what feels comfortable for you.

How often should I have a massage?

It depends on your goals and your body.

For a specific concern or ongoing tension, weekly or fortnightly treatments may be helpful for a period of time. For general wellbeing and maintenance, every 3–4 weeks works well for many people.

For Brazilian lymphatic drainage, a series of treatments may be recommended depending on your individual goals and how your body responds.

What is the difference between Relaxation and Deep Tissue Massage?

Relaxation Massage uses flowing, longer movements with personalised pressure to encourage the body to soften and the nervous system to settle.

Deep Tissue Massage uses firmer, more focused techniques to address areas of persistent muscular tension.

Deep tissue doesn’t have to hurt to be effective. The right pressure is the pressure your body can respond to.

Can I combine different massage techniques?

Some techniques can be combined depending on your needs.

However, Brazilian lymphatic drainage is best experienced as a treatment on its own, allowing us to maintain its specific rhythm and intention. Many clients find lymphatic drainage deeply relaxing by itself.

What is the difference between Traditional and Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage?

Traditional Manual Lymphatic Drainage, such as the Dr. Vodder method, uses very gentle, specific movements to support lymphatic flow.

The Renata França Brazilian method, which I am trained in, uses firmer pressure and more rhythmic, dynamic movements.

They are different techniques and are not interchangeable. I am qualified in the Renata França method, not the Dr. Vodder method.

What is Holistic Pulsing?

Holistic Pulsing is a gentle, rhythmic form of bodywork using continuous rocking and pulsing movements through the body.

The familiar rocking rhythm can create a reassuring sense of safety, helping the mind and nervous system settle and the body relax more deeply. It can encourage the nervous system towards a restful parasympathetic state, associated with relaxation and recovery.

You remain fully clothed during Holistic Pulsing. It can be particularly lovely for older people, those who are sensitive to touch, or anyone who wants the benefits of deeply relaxing bodywork without direct massage pressure.

Is it normal to feel sore after a massage?

Some tenderness can occur after deeper work, particularly around areas of long-standing tension.

However, massage does not need to hurt to be effective. Please always tell me if the pressure doesn’t feel right so we can adjust your treatment.

Can I have a massage after eating?

It is more comfortable to avoid a large meal immediately before your massage. Ideally, allow 1–2 hours after a substantial meal. A light snack is usually fine.

What is the minimum age for massage?

Alma Massage primarily treats adults. Please contact me before booking for anyone under 18 so we can discuss whether the treatment is appropriate and any consent requirements.

Do you offer pregnancy massage?

Yes, pregnancy massage can be arranged, but not during the first trimester.

Please let me know when booking that you are pregnant so the treatment and positioning can be adapted appropriately. If you have any pregnancy-related concerns or complications, please consult your midwife or healthcare professional first.

Are there reasons I should not have a massage?

Yes. Massage may need to be postponed or adapted if you have a fever or acute illness, contagious skin condition, recent surgery or injury, certain cardiovascular or vascular conditions, or unexplained swelling or pain.

Please let me know about any relevant health conditions, medication or recent procedures before your appointment. If you’re unsure whether massage is appropriate, please check with your healthcare professional first.

Do I need to undress for my massage?

You will always be appropriately draped, with only the area being worked on exposed.

You undress only to your own comfort level and should never feel pressured to remove anything you don’t want to.

Holistic Pulsing is performed fully clothed.

Do you offer home visits?

My preference is for you to come to the Alma Massage space, where everything is prepared for your treatment and you can step away from your own environment.

Special home visits may be arranged depending on location and availability. Additional charges may apply for travel, setup and pack-down time.

Can you provide massage at hotels, retreats or private events?

Yes. I have experience working in luxury accommodation and wellness retreats, and I particularly enjoy creating personalised massage experiences for guests.

Hotel treatments, retreats, private groups and wellness events can be arranged by request. I am also open to collaborating with retreat organisers, accommodation providers and other wellness professionals.

What is your cancellation policy?

I kindly ask for at least 24 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule.

Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice may be charged at the full treatment price, as there is usually not enough time to fill the appointment.

If you have a genuine or serious reason for cancelling at short notice, please contact me. Where possible, I will always try to rearrange your appointment rather than charge a cancellation fee.

​