FAQs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

ABOUT US

WHAT TRAINING AND REGISTRATIONS DO YOU HAVE?

* Registered NDIS provider (Minimum Booking: 4-hour minimum service bookings)

* Registered practitioner with Cuddle Therapy Australia - Cuddle Therapy certification.
*  Registered practitioner with CR Kinesiology and Coaching - Facial Emotional Therapy certification.  

* Certified member of the International Institute of Complementary Therapists (IICT) and the Energy Therapies Association - bound by the national code of conduct for health care workers. 

* Be U Wellness also holds current police clearance, working with children check (WWCC) and is committed to high standards of professionalism and client confidentiality. 

DO YOU HAVE A LOYALTY AND REWARDS PROGRAM?

Yes we do! We pride ourselves on caring for our customers and believe in building meaningful relationships with every client that walks through our doors. Our customer service strategy is founded on building long-lasting relationships with our loyal clientele. We do this is by allowing our customers to:

  • Earn 5 loyalty rewards (1per 1hr of CT/ FET) for 5% off current booking;
  • Earn 10 loyalty rewards (1per 1hr of CT/ FET) for 10% off current booking;
  • Earn 15 loyalty rewards (1per 1hr of CT/ FET) for 15% off current booking;
  • Redeem 15% off your next session for each successful referral.

NB Only 1 loyalty and/or referral reward can be redeemed at any given time. Redemption is on an “opt-in“ basis and does not apply automatically or retrospectively. Please keep track of sessions and advise when you wish to opt in to redeem your loyalty discounts. 

ARE STAFF FULLY VACCINATED AND IS ANYONE WELCOME TO BECOME A CLIENT EVEN IF THEY ARE NOT VACCINATED?

All staff are fully vaccinated and clients are only required to wear a mask as a condition of entry if that is a requirement of current covid-19 restrictions.   

Anyone is welcome to become a client and at Be U Wellness we will accept you just as you are. We have a wide range of clients across different age groups, genders and occupations. Some are single, while others are in relationships trying to reconnect. Our clients come to us for many reasons, from seeking an outlet to celebrate success, to relaxation and self-care, or to work through trauma around touch.  


PAYMENTS, DEPOSITS AND TIPS

HOW MUCH DOES A THERAPY SESSION COST AND ARE THERE EXTRA FEES?

1hr consultations during standard hours start from $165 per hour and are hosted at our centre in Carlingford. We may consider a callout / guest session on a needs basis, but this is only for exceptional circumstances. 

Please NB that all offers and pricing are subject to change without notification.

An after hours (AH) surcharge applies to all appointments outside of our standard advertised hours. A last minute (LM) surcharge also applies to sessions booked same day / within 48hours (subject to availability).

We encourage all clients to book in 48hours or more in advance during standard hours to avoid any additional fees.  

WHY DO I NEED TO PAY UPFRONT?

Life and Time are precious, so to deter “no shows” and last minute cancellations payment is required before we confirm and block out your time. Please note, all payments including booking deposits are non-refundable for any cancellations or changes made within 48hrs of a booked session time. We  have a strict no-refund policy for all payments however you can reschedule an appointment at no additional cost if 48hrs notice is provided. All payments and deposits made with Be U Wellness are non-refundable unless the Australian Consumer Law applies. If less than 48hrs notice is provided, any amount paid is forfeited and becomes non-refundable and non-transferrable.

WHEN DO I NEED TO PAY / HOW DOES PAYMENT WORK?

Full payment is generally required upfront and 48hrs in advance to confirm all standard bookings.        

By express arrangement only, you may be able to book in last minute / same day and payment is due 3hrs before same day bookings. We accept all major credit cards, transfers (EFT)  or PAYID / Osko. 

WHY CAN’T I SEE YOUR OLD PROMOTIONAL OFFERS OR REQUEST OLD OFFERS?

All offers and pricing are subject to change without notification. We occasionally run promotion prices as incentives or limited time offers during a promotional time period. Due to the time sensitive and promotional nature of these offers, we are unable to offer price protection or retroactive discounts and refunds.

SHOULD I LEAVE A TIP?

No, but thank you for your generosity. In lieu of tipping, we kindly request a Google review and a referral to friends, family or colleagues. We also encourage you to book yourself another session as we look forward to seeing you again.

I CAN’T MAKE MY APPOINTMENT, CAN I CANCEL/ RESCHEDULE?

We have a strict 48hour cancellation and rescheduling policy so please let us know at least 48 in advance to not forfeit your booking fee.  If the required notice is not provided all deposits / payments made are non-refundable and non-transferrable to another session or person.  


WHAT TO EXPECT

CAN I TALK DURING A SESSION, IS CHAT PART OF THE THERAPY AND IS ANY TOPIC 'OFF LIMITS'?

You can talk if that'd make you more comfortable as we are always happy to listen. All we ask is that you keep any topics light and PG and we will be honest with you about how much is "too much" in terms of what you share. Compassionate listening can be a wonderful part of natural therapy; however please understand the therapy benefits are wholly in the therapy itself and not in any accompanying conversation. A natural therapist is not a counsellor, so it is important to understand that talking is not part of the booked sessions and in no way constitutes medical or other advice.   

WHAT IF I DON'T WANT TO TALK?

We have created a sensory oasis to allow you to have space for silence and where you do not have to talk but can just relax. All you need to do is enjoy the sounds, lighting and scents designed to indulge your every sense to relax in comfortable silence or chat away; the choice is entirely up to you.    

WHAT IF I'M ANXIOUS TO DO A NATURAL THERAPY FOR THE FIRST TIME?

That's perfectly OK! Most people are anxious because of all the stigma related to natural alternative therapies. However, you’ll find that any anxiety will usually disappear / dissipate after five minutes in a session. Our therapists can read energy and are trained at putting clients at ease. Many clients also find that the potential benefits for one’s heart, soul, body and mind, quickly outweigh any initial trepidation. 


DRESS CODE AND HYGIENE

WHAT DO I WEAR TO A NATURAL THERAPY SESSION?

You are free to choose what is comfortable for you to wear but loose fitting clothes, T-shirts with sweatpants or yoga gear are generally suitable attire. As long as you’re in a minimum of a T-shirt and long shorts, you’re A-OK! You'll always be given time before a session to get settled and to change.

CAN I TELL THE THERAPIST WHAT TO WEAR?

No, however you are free to wear any clothes that are not constricting and are comfortable (ideally scent-free) for your own comfort.

WHAT IS YOUR POLICY REGARDING HYGIENE FOR NATURAL THERAPY (CT)?

We ask that all clients please be considerate by ensuring to shower and brush their teeth before any appointments. It also helps to try and avoid any strong perfume or cologne. 


CUDDLE THERAPY (CT)

WHAT ARE THE POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF TOUCH / CUDDLE THERAPY (CT)?

According to Cuddle Therapy Australia human beings thrive on CONTACT because of its ability to release oxytocin, dopamine, serotonin and inhibit cortisol. The possible benefits to expect include:- 

  • Decreased stress and increased relaxation
  • A Happy and beautiful feeling
  • Lessened depression
  • Lessened anxiety and social anxiety
  • Improved social skills
  • Improved self-esteem 
  • Improved sleep
  • Lowered blood pressure and heart rate
  • Not feeling lonely
  • Reduced risk of heart disease
  • Improved immune system and faster recovery
  • Protection against inflammation and oxidative stress
  • Pain relief and raised pain threshold
  • Reduced drug cravings
  • Lessened Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
  • Assistance with overcoming Traumas of Sexual or Physical Abuse
  • Slowing down and feeling like there are no expectations from cuddling

Still not convinced but curious to learn how others are using cuddle therapy for self care and greater mental health? Then read this https://www.womenshealth.com.au/cuddle-therapy-is-the-latest-in-self-care-but-what-is-it/

I AM LOOKING FOR AN AVENUE TO HELP ME "HEAL", "RESTORE" OR "RECHARGE", IS THAT A GOOD REASON TO TRY CUDDLE THERAPY (CT)?

Yes indeed! That is one of the many beautiful outcomes that one might experience from CT. Some people find cuddle therapy very healing and restorative, so often comment about CT adding a "pep back in their step". Previous clients have also described walking out with a fresh perspective on life, as they begin or continue their journey for healing, relaxation, restoration and/ or recharging.   

IS CUDDLE THERAPY (CT) THE SAME AS CUDDLING WITH A ROMANTIC / SEXUAL PARTNER?

No. CT sessions are designed to be purely platonic so cannot mimic the full intimacy one would experience with a romantic / sexual partner. We simply empower you with some tools to go out and create successful, deeply connected relationships.  

WHAT'S THE BEST WAY TO CUDDLE IF I'M NEW TO CT?

Whatever makes you comfortable / "your way" will always be the best way! Every person is unique and has different preferences about the best way to cuddle; so there are many right ways to cuddle! Half of the fun is in discovering what is right for YOU so we will work with you through a range of cuddle placements. We want you to leave feeling more relaxed, better about yourself and more confident about communicating your own needs while respecting the needs of others. We’re also happy to provide guidance and reading materials on the different cuddle placements that you can explore and enjoy.  

CAN THERE BE KISSING, NUDITY OR UNDRESSING FOR SKIN TO SKIN?

No. All participants must be fully clothed in outer garments and cannot make requests for kissing or removal of clothing to facilitate skin-to-skin. Our therapists only facilitate skin to skin through hand to hand holding, hand to foot holding and hand to face, neck and scalp holding. The only exception to this is the removal of excess clothing for thermoregulation of body temperature (eg you get too hot in your jumper). You are also free to make a request to turn the air-conditioning up or down or off. 

WHAT IF I BECOME AROUSED DURING THE CUDDLING SESSION?

That is perfectly OK because our bodies can react in different ways. As human beings we are instinctively physical creatures, so it is not a big deal. We will just stop and re-direct the session. It is completely natural, but keep in mind that no sexual activity of any kind will take place and we would take a break and change positions, so any arousal does not take focus😊 We trust you to help us keep the space non-sexual in action and intention, and to make sure that any possible arousal is quickly redirected.  

CAN CUDDLE THERAPY (CT) BE SEXUAL?

No. Cuddle Therapy is not intended to be sexual in any way. We request that all clients ensure they are a good fit for our services by reading all FAQs about what we do and don’t offer. We take great care in keeping our sessions completely G-rated. We understand the importance of sex, sexuality and sex work; it’s simply not the service we offer. Non-romantic, non-sexual touch (think siblings!) is what we’re all about. All clients are also required to sign an agreement to acknowledge our terms and conditions for the provision of platonic therapeutic touch.

WHAT TYPES OF ACTIVITIES / ACTIONS ARE INAPPROPRIATE AND ARE NOT PERMITTED?

Activities that would be inappropriate might include: kissing, touching any intimate areas, smoking/taking drugs, alcohol consumption, anything sexually oriented or sexually driven, watching pornography etc.  If you are unsure if an activity would be inappropriate, please just ask and we will happily tell you if we believe a suggested activity is appropriate or not.  

WHAT IF I BECOME UNCOMFORTABLE AND WANT TO STOP DURING A CT SESSION?

Consent is an integral part of CT and other touch based therapy. So it is important to know that you are free to stop the session at any time and for any reason.  

I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT PLATONIC CUDDLES LOOK LIKE? IS THERE A RESOURCE FOR ME?

Yes there most certainly is! CNN did the below gallery article on ways to cuddle platonically. Please just NB that we call these 'Cuddle Placements' and work with you to explore a range of other placements to suit your needs. https://edition.cnn.com/2015/02/10/living/gallery/cuddling-positions-cuddle-con-irpt/index.html 

CAN I WATCH SOMETHING TO LEARN A BIT MORE ABOUT THE BENEFITS OF TOUCH TOUCH THERAPY?

You certainly can! Watch David Linden’s 2016 TEDx talk titled “The Science of Touching and Feeling” in which he explores the science and complexities of touch on human health at the bottom of this page or using this link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lW8pJ7E9taQ&list=PLndoT-7Sn6AuA8_Hxm7f_yvc-lUkAIFRk&index=2.

You can also watch a 2019 Tedx Talk titled “Cuddling can make us better human beings” by Rebekka Mikkola, a qualified cuddle and massage therapist. Drawing on her own personal experience as a cuddle therapist and from client feedback, she explores some of the rarely discussed benefits of touch in the below link  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBQa6tixYBs&list=PLndoT-7Sn6AuA8_Hxm7f_yvc-lUkAIFRk&index=16.


FACIAL EMOTIONAL THERAPY (FET)

WHAT TRAINING AND REGISTRATIONS DO YOU HAVE?

Be U Wellness was certified under CR Kinesiology and Coaching as a Facial Emotional Therapist and is registered for the FET modality with the International Institute of Complimentary Therapists (IICT). 

To be accredited with IICT for FET one must complete a minimum  of 25 hours of training prior to obtaining practitioner certification in FET. 

FET practitioner training is a combination of techniques drawn from facial harmony, kinesiology, reiki, physiotherapy, brain gym, remedial massage and reflexology. 

HOW DOES FACIAL EMOTIONAL THERAPY (FET) IT WORK?

FET is a breakthrough therapy that combines techniques drawn from facial harmony, kinesiology, reiki, physiotherapy, brain gym, remedial massage and reflexology. 

FET works on energy blockages that can be the result of stress, an injury or trauma, or bad living habits (diet, addictions, lack of exercise) and can be traced to the root of all health (physical, mental, spiritual) problems.

Through gentle sensitive touch applied to the face, head and neck, an overall release of tension is experienced in the nervous system. Clients can experience a sense of being brought back into balance, as well as a strong state of relaxation which can open up a profound sense of awareness. 

FET has a range of other benefits which include and are not limited to:

  • releasing stress and toxins, 
  • improving skin and muscle tone
  • stimulating and increasing blood circulation 

“Revealing who you truly are can be a joyful experience. Releasing yourself from the burdens of conditioning and limiting beliefs, you uncover and actualise the beauty and great potential that already exists within your own heart.” - Tanmayo Lawson* 

*International speaker and presenter with over 30 years experience in the field of wellness, self inquiry and transpersonal study.

WHAT ARE SOME BENEFITS OF FACIAL EMOTIONAL THERAPY (FET)?

“Some clients have reported that it reduces and softens lines and wrinkles, reduces puffiness and fluid retention around the eyes; reduces tension-induced sinus discomfort.” - Tanmayo Lawson  

Many find this treatment profoundly relaxing and calming, in addition to experiencing feelings of being re-balanced and nurtured.  

WHAT AREAS OF THE BODY DOES AN FET SESSION FOCUS ON?

FET is on the face, neck and head only so a client will generally lie on a massage table and the therapy is concentrated on the face, head and neck. Your therapist will be seated on a stool by the head of the table.


SOUND BATH THERAPY (SBT)

WHAT ARE SOME BENEFITS OF SOUND BATHS, SOUND HEALING, AND MEDITATION?
  • > Calms your body and mind
  • > Reduces stress and anxiety
  • > Increases focus and clarity
  • > Decreases tension and fatigue 
  • > Improves sleep and improves memory
  • > Relieves pain and combats depression
  • > Elevates feelings of spiritual well-being
  • > Decreases risk of heart disease and stroke 
  • > Reduces blood pressure and lowers cholesterol
  • > Boosts your mood and reduces feelings of anger
ARE THERE ANY RISKS WITH SOUND BATH THERAPY?

Sound bath therapy using Tibetan singing bowls is generally regarded as safe but the research is limited on all risks and side effects. People who may want to avoid singing bowl therapy include those who:

  • Are prone to headaches: Some people report experiencing headaches as a result of the noise and vibrations that the singing bowls produce. 
  • Are pregnant: Because the effects on pregnancy are not known, you might want to avoid this type of therapy if you are currently pregnant.
  • Have epilepsy: In some instances, noise and vibrations may trigger seizures. 
  • Have certain neurological disorders: will foreclose the use of singing bowls.
  • Have other clinical disorders currently being medicated: it is important to receive permission from your doctor, psychiatrist, or therapist before going forward with sound therapy. 
  • Are not ready for this type of healing: singing bowls and sound therapy should be avoided until a later time. 

A range of other illnesses, conditions or circumstances might require completely avoiding sound bath therapy using singing bowls. Please read the below linked Shanti Bowl article on dangers of Singing Bowls:- https://www.shantibowl.com/blogs/blog/dangers-of-singing-bowls

If you find that you have one or more of these conditions but are still interested in the healing effects of singing bowls, you should consult your doctor before use. 

WHEN SHOULD SINGING BOWLS AVOID CERTAIN PARTS OF THE BODY?

Singing bowls should not be placed directly on or near acute inflammations, tumors, implants, screws, artificial joints, and inflamed joints and veins.
In addition, singing bowls should not be placed on your body if you have a heart pacemaker, coronary stent, cardiac shunt, artificial heart valves, implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), metal inserts, metal implants, or metal staples.
If you have carotid atherosclerosis, singing bowls should not be placed in the area around the neck. Singing bowls should also not be placed near diseased or clotted veins. In cases of thick vein thrombosis, singing bowls should not be placed on top of the affected vein or near it.

If you have heavily scared areas or have an inflammatory skin disorder, such as hives, psoriasis, eczema, singing bowls should not be placed on your body or touch your skin / these areas.


YIN YOGA (YY) AND VINYASA YOGA (VY) FAQS

IS THERE A CORRECT WAY TO HOLD A POSE OR IS THIS A PERSONALISED PRACTICE?

There is no right way to do Yin poses, so it is less about how a pose 'looks', and more about how it 'feels'. Poses are adjusted for each individual, so props and modifications should be used in a way that makes sense for each person's body. "Anatomical uniqueness" is the backbone of this personalised practice, and each person should work to reach their body's individual, personal edge (which will ultimately look different for each person).  

WHAT IF I FEEL PAIN WHILE TRYING TO LONG HOLD A POSE?

Yin poses should allow you to feel sensations and push through some discomfort, but never any pain. We discourage holding a pose to the point of feeling intense pain, as this does not allow you to maintain the appropriate quality of stillness and quiet in the mind. 

We offer props and modifications to allow you to be with the correct form of discomfort. This has huge benefits for the physical body, and also the mind and energetic body. We can assist you to figure out which prop setups and modifications are best for your body.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I CAN'T MOVE ANY DEEPER INTO A POSE? WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

Once we reach a point where we can not physically move deeper into a pose, then the practice becomes about the energetics and the quality of the mind. After we move to the most physical sensation we can feel in the body, we can open up our energy centres. 

So after lengthening tissue to protect the longevity of joints, we can use compression to release energetic blockages and to let go of past experiences or negative emotions that we are holding on to. Which may ultimately leave you feeling more balanced, grounded and connected.

WHY IS YIN YOGA PRACTICED COLD / WITH A COLD BODY?

Yin Yoga is not about targeting the major muscle groups, so instead focuses on opening up connective tissue, which is best done when the body is cold. By practicing cold we can avoid engaging our muscles, focus on calming the mind and experience physiological benefits to look at the way we think and why behave the way we do.     

Mindful yin practice will slow the rate of respiration, slow heart rate, lower blood pressure and activate the parasympathetic nervous system ( network of nerves that relaxes the body after periods of stress or danger). 

Traditionally Yin yoga is a cooling practice that lowers our body temperature since we are not actively engaging muscles, and therefore not creating 'heat'. So one pose does not prepare the body for another pose, but is instead looked at statically and individually.


DURATION, LOCATION AND PARKING

CAN YOU COME TO ME FOR THERAPY AND WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR OUTCALLS / HOME VISITS?

We generally require all clients to visit us at our centre, however in extenuating circumstances (e.g due to physical limitations) we can come to your registered residential address for an additional fee and subject to a 2hr minimum booking period. The additional Travel fee is either based on time or distance (whichever is higher) as detailed below:

TIME - Travel time from the Clinic to Client's address (one way trip); or

DISTANCE - $1 per/KM from Clinic to Client's address and back to Clinic (return trip).

At this stage we are only able to offer travel within 5km of our Carlingford location.

HOW LONG CAN A NATURAL THERAPY SESSION GO FOR?

Initial sessions are a min of 1 hour then ongoing sessions range from 1–3 hours (longer sessions are available by request on a client by client basis). 

WHERE ARE YOU LOCATED AND IS THERE PARKING?

Be U Wellness is located along Tintern Avenue in Carlingford and there is driveway parking available for clients or their support workers.  

Please reach us at [email protected] if you cannot find an answer to a question you may have.