FAQs
If this is your first bodywork treatment, or your first visit to Allyu, the following information may be helpful to you. If you have any further questions, please call us at 312.755.1313. We’re looking forward to meeting you!
what kind of massage will I receive?
what should I wear to a massage/acupuncture?
is it acceptable to talk during the treatment?
should I always reschedule with the same therapist?
is tipping appropriate? if so, what is the customary amount?
do you have gift certificates?
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 just relax and have your immune system supported through Swedish techniques. Next week, you may need a much more 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 for 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 will be provided for the treatment area. Before massage treatments you will privately undress to your comfort level and lay under soft flannel sheets. The areas the therapist is working will be modestly and respectfully uncovered during the work.
Most acupuncture appointments can occur fully clothed.
does acupuncture hurt?
The needles for acupuncture are almost as small as a hair. The gentle insertion into the skin doesn’t 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 conveyed 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 anything different you may need. However, we also invite you to take this time to sink into relaxation – a very important component of healing! – and allow your mind to quiet. Often this occurs more easily in silence.
how long will I be there?
When you schedule your first appointment, we will ask you to arrive about 15 minutes early to fill out initial paperwork. We would also suggest you allow at least 15 minutes after your appointment to leisurely get ready and bring up any questions you may have with your therapist. If possible, some quiet time in our meditation room with a warm cup of tea is a lovely addition to allow a gentle transition – for as long as you want!
do I need to shower after?
We do have 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’d like to reserve one of the four rooms at the time you schedule. 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 touch it knows. 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 an enormous assistance in supporting your immune system. However, the lymphatic stimulation of massage therapy could actually exacerbate symptoms of illness in the 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 we do. Gift card can be made out for any service or dollar amount. You can 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 a 6 hour notice. A full fee is charged for appointments missed without notice.
what forms of payment do you accept?
Visa, Mastercard, American Express, checks and cash are accepted. Payment is expected at the time of treatment.