Holy mother, is this place ever wonderful. Wanting a massage on a quick overnight trip to Salem, I happened upon this gem. It's definitely a different experience than your typical massage studio. They specialize in a style of massage that is similar to a combination of Swedish and Shiatsu, meaning lots of strokes with plenty of acupressure points to work out the knots, relieve pain and get that lymph flowing.
When you arrive, the welcome can be a bit awkward, in part due to a language barrier and in part because some of the people I've encountered at the desk are a little brusque. Services are performed in partitioned off sections of a large, very clean and dimly lit room. It's very spa-like and not at all sketchy. Keep in mind that communal acupuncture and therapeutic massage are typically performed this way in China.
You'll be led to a low massage table and left to wonder what's next. Relax, take off your shoes and socks and moments later your practitioner will appear with a luxurious foot soak for you to relax into. You essentially sink your toes into warm water and lay back on the massage table fully clothed to enjoy the head, neck, shoulders and arms portion of your massage. Then your feet are tenderly dried in a fluffy towel and massaged until they feel like clouds. Some stretches, legs massage and then you're flipped so your back and neck can be worked over further. Hot towel wipe down for your feet and viola - you are as relaxed as you've ever been.
I've had tons of massage, all over the world - this place is quite special. An hour massage will run you a measly $35 and is consistently good.
Some tips to make your trip easier:
- Call and book an appointment.
- Wear comfortable clothing, basically what you would for a yoga class.
- Bring cash. Though they will accept cards for the service, the tip should be in cash. There is a BofA ATM next door.
- Come a bit early. There is a large parking lot but it's shared with a bank, starbucks and other businesses so it can take a few (or 15) minutes to find a convenient spot. Leave time as no one needs to get stressed before a massage.
- Understand that your practitioner probably speaks very little English but they want to make you happy. If you need more pressure, say "harder please". If it's too hard, say "softer please". I've had three massage there and each practitioner has asked me if pressure was okay and checked in several times during the massage but don't be shy.
In closing, this place is fantastic. I live in Maine but bought a package and now drive down once a month to indulge in a little relaxation. A massage here is worth an hour and a half on I-95 and if that doesn't clear things up for you, I don't know what will. read more