FAQs  |  glossary

FAQs

If this is your first bodywork treatment, or your first visit to Allyu, the following information may be helpful for you. If you have any further questions, please call us at 312.755.1313. We are looking forward to meeting you! 

what kind of massage will I receive?

what should I wear to a massage/acupuncture?

does acupuncture hurt?

is it acceptable to talk during the treatment?

how long will I be there?

do I need to shower after?

should I always reschedule with the same therapist?

is tipping appropriate? if so, what is the customary amount?

do you have gift certificates?

is there parking?

what if I need to cancel my appointment?

what forms of payment do you accept?
 

what kind of massage will I receive?

Each time you receive a massage your needs will probably differ. Today you may need to relax and have your immune system supported through Swedish techniques. Next week you may need specific work on any area causing pain. All of our therapists are licensed and trained to address these issues in a personalized way. Feel free to directly communicate your needs before and during the treatment or request your therapist’s advice on the best approach.  

what should I wear to a massage/acupuncture?

Wear whatever you like. Spa sandals are provided for the treatment area. Before massage treatments you will privately undress according to your comfort level and lay under soft flannel sheets. The areas of the body addressed by your therapist will be modestly and respectfully uncovered during the work.  

Most acupuncture appointments do not require that you undress.

 

does acupuncture hurt?

The needles for acupuncture are almost as small as a hair. The gentle insertion into the skin does not hurt. When the energy at that point starts to “wake up” there may be a sensation or slight throbbing. This is a good sign! As with any treatment, any discomfort you have should be communicated to your practitioner.  

is it acceptable to talk during the treatment?

We encourage you to give feedback during your session regarding your comfort level or specific areas of focus. We also invite you to take this time to sink into relaxation – a very important component of healing! Quieting of the mind often occurs more easily in silence.  

how long will I be there?

We recommend arriving about 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment in order to fill out initial paperwork. Please allow at least 15 minutes after your appointment to dress, enjoy a glass of water or warm cup of tea, and bring up any questions you may have with your therapist. We also invite you to enjoy some quiet time in our meditation room both before and after your service.

do I need to shower after?

We offer luxurious shower facilities. Each shower room is plastered in a richly-colored Moroccan plaster and stocked with natural soaps and shampoos for your use. We will ask if you would like to reserve one of the four rooms at the time you schedule your appointment. Some people prefer not to shower after their treatment to allow our nourishing creams to feed their skin for the day.  

should I always reschedule with the same therapist?

The are numerous benefits to working with the same therapist over an extended period of time. They will learn your needs more specifically and your body will be able to relax more easily with a familiar touch. However, you may also find you enjoy a variety of styles, or wish to see different therapists under different circumstances. This choice is completely yours.  

should I keep my appointment if I’m feeling ill?

If you are feeling the beginning of illness, acupuncture can be of enormous assistance in supporting your immune system. However, the lymphatic stimulation of massage therapy could actually exacerbate symptoms of illness in its early stages. And, of course, if you feel you are contagious, we request that you reschedule your appointment. Please call us if you have any concerns or questions.  

is tipping appropriate? if so, what is the customary amount?

A 10%-20% gratuity is customary. However, if the additional cost makes it difficult for you to get bodywork on a regular basis, we would prefer to see you regularly and allow you to receive the benefits of consistent treatments.  

do you have gift certificates?

Yes. Gift cards can be made out for any service or dollar amount. You may pick them up in person or purchase them over the phone.  

is there parking?

We validate parking ($3 for up to 3 hours) in the 600 West garage across from our entrance and at the garage around the corner at 900 N Kingsbury Ave. If you choose to park in the Kingsbury garage, take the elevators down to the Riverwalk level and go south (toward the Tribune) along the water to our space.  

what if I need to cancel my appointment?

We understand the occasional need to cancel an appointment. We do ask that you please notify us of any cancellation at least 6 hours in advance. A 50% cancellation fee will be charged to your credit card for cancellations with less than 6 hours notice. A full fee is charged for appointments missed without notice.  

what forms of payment do you accept?

Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, checks and cash are accepted. Payment is expected at the time of treatment.