FAQs

The FAQs listed below aims to answer some of the questions you may have.

Please call me on 07525 758 969 to find out more or  contact me now via this website.

Appointment Length Guidance

Appointment times include a brief chat at the beginning of the session to help us decide your treatment plan, ask any questions, and perform any relevant tests/postural assessment if relevant.

The hands-on massage treatment will end 5 minutes before the end of the appointment or slightly earlier if aftercare is needed.

30-minute Follow-Up (Not suitable for new clients)

30-minute follow-up for existing clients who have already been to the clinic before.

A follow-up from a previous treatment to focus on a particular small area already discussed in a previous treatment.

45-minute (Not suitable for new clients)

45-minute follow-up for existing clients who have already been to the clinic before.

Perfect for a short pick-me-up session or a follow-up from a previous treatment to work on one particular area of focus or for a relaxation treatment.

It’s just enough time for a treatment and you can pop in during your lunch hour!

60-minute

60-minute is the most popular length of a massage session.

I advise booking 60, 75, or 90 minutes for an initial session. There is time to talk through your needs and plan your session, have a relaxing treatment, and discuss some aftercare.

Depending on what you need and how you feel on the day, we can decide at the beginning of your appointment whether you’d like a holistic or deep tissue massage or a combination of the two.

  • Swedish-style holistic relaxation massage to improve overall well-being
  • relaxation massage with deep tissue massage techniques to work on a more specific area of tension and discomfort

If you would like a remedial or sports massage, please note you will be moved about during a session. You will have to be physically interacting and engaging with your therapist, and willing to complete any homework given to you to aid recovery and to become ‘pain-free’. Anyone who suffers from physical discomfort or limited mobility, regardless of age and ability, can benefit from remedial and sports therapy.

In a remedial or sports massage, further to our initial conversation, I will perform some postural assessments and passive/active mobility tests if relevant to better inform our session. If you would like an initial full postural assessment or have several areas of concern, please book a longer session.

In case postural assessment and testing are necessary, bring a pair of shorts or loose-fitting pants and, for women, also an optional vest-top if you are not happy being in a bra.

75-minute

75-minute session is ideal for an initial session or if you have more than one area of concern.. Plenty of time to talk through your needs and plan your session, have a relaxing treatment, and discuss some aftercare.

In case a postural assessment and tests are needed, please bring a pair of shorts or loose-fitting trousers, and for females also an optional vest-top if you are not happy to be in your bra.

90-minute

90-minute session is ideal for an initial session or if you have more than one area of concern.  Plenty of time to talk through your needs and plan your session, have a relaxing treatment, and discuss some aftercare.

In case a postural assessment and tests are needed, please bring a pair of shorts or loose-fitting trousers, and for females also an optional vest-top if you are not happy to be in your bra.

120-minute

120-minute session gives us a lot of time. It is ideal for an initial session if you have several areas of concern or if you would like to combine several treatments in one session (cupping, Reiki, Thai Foot, Holistic, Deep Tissue, Sports, Postural Assessment, Aftercare).  We can talk through your needs and plan your session, have a relaxing treatment, and discuss some aftercare.

In case a postural assessment and tests are needed, please bring a pair of shorts or loose-fitting trousers, and for females also an optional vest-top if you are not happy to be in your bra.

Ideal if:

  • there are several areas of concern
  • need a full postural assessment
  • need passive/active mobility tests to inform the treatment
  • combine several treatments in one session: Cupping, Reiki, Thai Foot, Holistic, Deep Tissue, Sports, Remedial
  • discuss aftercare in more depth

Massage Studio

10-12 Picton Street, Montpelier, Bristol, BS6 5QA

  • I’ll send you a confirmation email with details on how to access the building and other info once you’ve booked your massage
  • If you are a first-time client, complete the client intake form included in your appointment confirmation email
  • What to bring to your appointment
  • Entrance is via number 10, please ring my buzzer. If it is your first visit, I will also meet you at the entrance so I can show you around
  • You’ll need to be able to walk a couple of short flights of stairs to reach the studio
  • There is no waiting room, so please be punctual rather than early. There are plenty of excellent cafes and shops surrounding the practice rooms if you have time to explore.
  • You may use our secure bike parking if you cycle – please arrive five minutes ahead of time via Picton Lane and let me know beforehand on 07525 758 969 so I can let you in
  • Montpelier is on a residents’ parking scheme (RPS)  area (9 am – 5 pm Monday – Friday), and parking can be limited
  • Picton Street has a parking meter, and it’s cheap to stay for an hour or two
  • There are usually some free spaces on Arley Hill and Sydenham Road
  • There is metered parking on Upper York Street and Wilder Street (both approximately 7 minutes’ walk away) with a 2-hour maximum stay, charges apply Monday – Sunday, 8 am – Midnight
  • The nearest car park that has no limit on the time you can stay is St James Barton (approx. 11 minutes walk away)
  • Buses run up and down Stokes Croft / Cheltenham Rd, which is only two minutes’ walk away
  • Montpelier train station is just 5 mins walk away
  • I understand that Sandra Alonso is not a medical practitioner and any treatment given should not supplement, nor replace, conventional medical attention.

Regular Hours | Autumn 2025

Mon 11:15 am – 7:00 pm

Tues 11:15 am – 8:30 pm

Wed 11:15 am – 5:00 pm

Thu 11:15 am – 8:30 pm

Fri  11:00 am – 7:00 pm

Sat 11 am – 4 pm (subject to availability)

If you don’t see a time that works for you on the booking system, it is worth trying again later, as sessions do become available again as people rearrange or extra time is added.

If you are unable to find a suitable slot, please email me at info@sandraalonso.com or contact me via this website with your preferred day/time, and I will do my best to accommodate you.

For emergencies or late cancellations, please text me on 07525 758 969.

Building Noise Levels

Please note that while the building is usually quiet, occasional noise may occur as it is a shared space. If you find it disruptive, we can play soothing music to ensure your comfort—please feel free to request this at any time.

The building may be more lively, with noise potentially occurring before and after Yogasara Studio classes, as well as during lunch or tea breaks when relevant.

Weekly Classes at Yogasara Studio: Explore the weekly classes.

Movement Medicine noise typically occurs between 2:30 PM and 3:30/3:45 PM. For reference, upcoming dates are available here.

Weekend Teacher Training Courses Teacher Training Courses usually run on weekends from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with lunch generally taking place between 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM. Upcoming dates are also available here.

At weekends, the studio hosts a variety of other activities outside the normal timetable. While most (though not all) are listed on the workshops page.

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> Treatments I offer

> FAQs

 

To respect everyone’s time, ensure fair access to appointments, and maintain the sustainability of my practice, I kindly ask for:

  • At least 72 hours’ notice for cancellations or changes to standard appointments
  • 15 days’ notice for Onsite and Event bookings

This allows me to manage my schedule effectively and offer openings to others on the waiting list.

Appointments cancelled with less notice—or missed entirely—may be charged at the full rate.

I understand that plans can change unexpectedly. If you’re feeling unwell or need to reschedule, please get in touch as soon as possible. I’ll always do my best to accommodate you.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

If you have any symptoms of or have recently been suffering from nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, please call as soon as possible to reschedule your massage for a later date.

Likewise, if you have any fever, chills, or fatigue potentially related to a cold or flu, it isn’t appropriate to have a massage for either of our interests.

Please take a common-sense view on this and re-book your massage as soon as possible if you have any symptoms of illness. Try as much as you can to keep within the cancellation policy time-frames; this will need to be assessed on an individual basis. I keep the right to refuse to massage if you are sick.

Covid operating protocols have been relaxed. Surgical type IIR masks are now optional for clients and practitioners during treatment.

As always, each treatment situation should be risk-assessed. If any of us feel that there is a need to use increased PPE or if we feel more comfortable doing so, then that should be respected.

Please bring any PPE you feel that you may need to use for any massage practice we do.

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Some ways in which massage might help amongst many others:

  • Help to reduce pain by releasing endorphins; endorphins also elevate the mood
  • Relax sore muscles, improve muscle tone and flexibility
  • Relieve muscular tightness, stiffness, spasms and restrictions in muscle tissue
  • Restore balance and the natural healing processes of our bodies strengthening the immune system
  • Improve circulation of blood bringing more oxygen and nutrients into the muscle helping reduce fatigue
  • Improve nervous function
  • Help to increase joint mobility, free adhesions, breaks down scar tissue and decreases inflammation
  • Relieve physical discomfort such as sciatic, tension headaches, bad digestions or constipation
  • Improve your sleep and energy levels
  • Maintain your physical and emotional wellbeing
  • Promote body awareness, create a feeling of well-being and enhance self-esteem
  • Ease emotional trauma through relaxation
  • Decrease the heart rate due to relaxation
  • Temporarily decrease blood pressure
  • Deepen breathing and improve lung capacity by relaxing any tightness in the respiratory muscles
  • Improve digestion and increase movement in the large intestine which helps to relieve constipation
  • Reduce levels of the stress hormone Cortisol that can cause insomnia, lowered immunity, high blood pressure, heart disease, depression, weak bones and muscles
  • Reduce stress and anxiety  that can cause low immunity, high blood pressure, heart disease, depression, weak bones and muscles by relaxing both mind and body

How do I book a massage with my MoveGB?

Booking happens in two quick steps:

Step 1: Reserve your slot on my booking system

  • Check availability and choose a 60‑minute or 90-minute appointment time that suits you.
  • Select “Pay Later” at checkout.
  • Add this note in the comments box: “MOVEGB + Your Postcode + Date of Birth”.

Step 2: Confirm and pay through MoveGB

  • Log in to your MoveGB account and choose 60‑minute or 90-minute.
  • Select the same date you reserved with me.
  • Complete your MoveGB booking there.

What is your cancellation policy for massage appointments?

All massage appointments have a 72‑hour cancellation policy. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please contact me as soon as possible so your slot can be offered to someone else.

 

How do I book a SHESENSU® class with MoveGB?

  • You can book SHESENSU® directly through MoveGB.
  • The booking system closes 1 hour before class.

What is the cancellation policy for SHESENSU®?

SHESENSU® bookings have a 24‑hour cancellation policy.

 

Who do I contact about my MoveGB membership or payments?

For any questions about your membership, billing, or credits, please contact MoveGB directly.

Prices

  • 30-minute Appointment Follow-Up – £40
  • 45-minute Appointment Follow-Up – £50
  • 60-minute Appointment – £60
  • 75-minute Appointment – £75
  • 90-minute Appointment – £90
  • 120-minute Appointment – £120

FEES: Fees are reviewed each year to reflect changes in costs and services. Thank you for your continued support!

PAYMENT: To confirm your appointment, I take payment in advance by BANK TRANSFER. Check your appointment confirmation email for details.

INSURANCE: Please check which accreditations and qualifications are accepted. I am registered with MTI (Massage Training Institute), and I can invoice you for holistic, deep tissue, remedial, and sports massage.

GIFT VOUCHER: Let me know at the time of booking if you have a Gift Voucher code or paper card.

CANCELLATION POLICY: Please provide at least 72 hours’ notice for changes to avoid a cancellation fee. If you cancel your appointment within this time frame or do not show up, you will still be liable for the cost of the appointment. Please review the cancellation policy section.

EVENTS & ONSITE: For  Events and Onsite Massage, please note that the costs are based on the number of clients, frequency of visits, location, and length of time spent per treatment. Please note that there is a minimum 15-day cancellation policy.

 

Private Insurance

Your health insurance may cover your sessions. Some health insurance policies will be limited to a specific number of sessions, and others will be limited by a ‘pot’ of money from which sessions can be taken.

There are many different types of private health insurance policies (be that paid for by an individual or paid for as a benefit by the person’s employer) that offer many different levels of cover. The key is to check your policy and if you can’t find something which specifies massage treatments, call them or drop them an email and ask.

I am aware that the following companies were covering Sports / Remedial / Deep Tissue Massage: Healthshield, UK Healthcare, Westfield Health, and Simply Health. Things do change, and you should always check your policy to see that you are covered. The provider will tell you whether you will pay up front and claim the money back, or whether they will pay for it.

I have an MTI-accredited Sports and Remedial Massage Diploma, so I should meet insurer standards.

Wednesdays, 5:50–6:50 pm

Drop‑in: £10 per class, book a single class whenever a space is available.

Unity Studios, 4 Neptune Court, Barton Manor, Bristol, BS2 0RL

BOOK YOUR SPACE HERE. Booking confirms you have read and understood the T&Cs and the contraindications.

Postural Assessment and Tests For a Remedial & Sports Massage Postural Assessment, please bring a pair of shorts or loose-fitting trousers that can be rolled up above the knee. Female clients who prefer not to undress to their underwear are welcome to wear a vest-top for comfort.

Myofascial Release Preparation For Myofascial Release, please bring a pair of shorts and, if applicable, a vest top or sports bra. Additionally, please refrain from using any moisturiser, including on your face, prior to the session to ensure the best results.

PPE Guidelines Please bring any PPE you feel you may need during the massage practice. Surgical type IIR masks are now optional for both clients and practitioners during treatment.

Bring Your Own Drape – An Eco-Friendly Option You have the option to bring your own drape for your sessions, offering several benefits:

  • It’s eco-friendly, reducing water and energy usage, and supports mindful, reusable consumption.
  • It also helps me reduce unnecessary laundry, allowing me to focus more energy on providing the best care for you.

I recommend bringing a single flat sheet, an extra-large towel, or a thin fleece blanket—large enough to cover you fully and soft enough for easy adjustment during treatment. If you prefer not to use couch roll, you can also bring a fitted sheet to place underneath you.

Please note, items may become slightly marked by massage oils, so you may want to designate these as part of your massage kit for ongoing use.

This option is completely voluntary, but many clients enjoy its contribution to sustainability. Thank you for embracing thoughtful and eco-conscious practices as part of your wellness journey! Together, we can make a small yet meaningful difference.

Payment Information If you haven’t made payment either via the booking system or through the bank account provided in your email confirmation, please ensure payment is made no later than the morning of your appointment. Alternatively, you can bring cash or a gift voucher to your appointment.

 

 

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CNHC Quality Mark indicating that Sandra Alonso is registered with the Complementary & Natural Healthcare Council.MTI logo indicating that Sandra Alonso is a member of the Massage Training Institute.TMJ Massage Graduate badge indicating Sandra Alonso’s specialist training in TMJ-focused massage.SHESENSU® logo representing Sandra Alonso’s movement and somatic fitness class.    

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