Updated September 22nd

Hello!

I never expected that starting a small business would be straightforward. But launching a massage practice during a pandemic? Now that's just bad cosmic timing.

I was not comfortable with what felt like a rushed re-opening in late May and decided to keep massage closed when other clinics and spas were opening up. Were up in DC, MD, and VA, though not as dramatically as other states. The testing in our area was far below what was necessary to suppress the virus, and barely enough to mitigate its spread. The contact tracing force wasn’t efficient yet.

However, by September, the metrics from DC were good enough for me to feel safe re-opening. The test positivity rate is 1.9%, a very good indication that we are testing at an adequate level. We are around 7 new daily cases per 100,000 people, a low rate of community spread. The contact tracing force is fully operational.

I will continue to track the national and regional metrics and if I think massage is unsafe at any point, I will postpone sessions for your safety and mine. But, given where we are now, I am cautiously optimistic that the risk will be remain low enough to safely practice massage.

Hands on Healing COVID Policies

  1. Before arriving for a session, I ask clients to disclose any COVID-related symptoms, exposure to known cases, or positive test results. I also ask clients to affirm that they are observing physical distancing and mask-wearing precautions.

  2. I will get tested at most every 14 days, if not weekly. If I test positive, I will postpone all massages and support contact tracing by providing contact information for all clients since my last negative testing date.

  3. I will wear a mask during all sessions and ask clients to do the same.

  4. I will bring a portable fan to promote airflow during our session, if airflow in the room is not sufficient.

  5. As always, I will carefully handle and wash linens between clients to avoid cross contamination.

  6. I’ll observe physical distancing, wear a mask, and wash my hands throughout my everyday life. I will avoid staying in crowded indoor spaces for longer than absolutely necessary.

If there are other precautions you would like me to take during your session, you are welcome to be in touch before booking.