This event could not have come at a better time - I am about as stressed at work as I have ever been and could feel how tight my shoulders and back have been, not having had a massage since January. I spend a lot of time hunched over at a computer writing reports, and I also have an old lower back injury/degenerative spine condition that creates a lot of tightness and pain.
Upon arrival, the staff were very friendly and explained how everything worked. There was a comfortable waiting area to complete the intake form and wait for your massage therapist. I was greeted by Lizette, my massage therapist, and she guided me to the room and waited an appropriate amount of time for me to undress and get under the blankets before knocking.
As a larger woman, I have been on some massage tables that don't feel as comfortable. Although I would not say that this is the most comfortable table I have been on, there was nothing to complain about - it was comfortable and sturdy and the blankets felt soft. The room itself was a little small, with just enough room to walk around the massage table, but it does the job. The lighting and temperature in the room was perfect for me - I don't like being overly warm and sometimes that can happen. There was some soft music in the background and even though it was only a half hour massage, I was able to get to a very relaxed state, which as someone with anxiety, can be quite difficult for me at times. Lizette asked me what areas I would like to focus on, and I said my neck, shoulders, and back, and that is what she did. I probably should have said I still would have liked the rest of my body to be massaged but I understand that was probably difficult to do in only half an hour. She started off with too much pressure for me but I let her know it was too firm and she quickly adjusted and checked in on a few occasions to make sure the pressure was okay. One of the best parts of the massage was the warm towel placed over my back towards the end, it was such a nice feeling. After the massage was over and I had gotten dressed, she greeted me with a cup of water, which I appreciated and expect at any good massage place, since staying hydrated after a massage is so important. She had also written out a little treatment recommendation card, which was a nice afterthought.
The owner was out in the front with the rest of her staff and had set out a lovely spread of refreshments for us, as well as a cute tote bag, as we looked over the specials that were being offered today - the special being offered to become a member was very reasonable and I like the format that they have setup when it comes to the membership. However I ultimately decided not to sign up as the Simi location is a bit far from me in Ventura. However, I may consider signing up in the future and would definitely encourage others in the area to consider a membership there. I left feeling so relaxed and that relaxation has carried over to the rest of the day.
Thank you Elements Massage and Yelp!! read more