I think I just had best and first proper massage in my life.
I now know why everyone complains about the strength of a massage and how difficult it is to find a person that can really “get in there”. Like many others, when I get a massage and the masseuse checks in with me to see if the pressure is ok, I comply, and say “yes”. Despite paying for the service, I feel obliged to go with the flow as they are servicing me so intimately. Despite wanting to say, “go stronger”, I keep shy, unless it is too strong and I need them to soften up, lest I cry.
However, today with a slew of aches and pains from daily workouts without rest days, poor sleeping patterns, and the incessant ache of wrist and forearms; I decided to get serious. I went into Knead determined to ask for exactly what I thought I would need to remedy some of the above.
Here, we were at Knead’s second and newest location in Marpole, here for a 60 minute body massage. They also offer foot massages and RMT services, or a combo of both, at prices varying by time.
Like the original location this is meant to be a quiet space, so I was aware of entering in silence, and keeping my voice hushed.
Past their foot parlour are individual service rooms. A rectangular space with only the essentials. I was asked to disrobe down to your underwear, before crawling into the massage bed, belly down.
I was then asked if there are any parts I wanted to focus on or any pain I was feeling. I expressed my concerns, and together with the masseuse, we agree to focus on my upper body. This would allow for just as much time on the shoulders and neck as each individual forearm to wrist.
Despite her smaller stature and youth my masseuse was incredibly effective in applying pressure. She utilized the full weight of her body, as well as the density of her elbows and the strength of her forearm bone. She easily identified knots and gave warning when they would be particularly “crunchy”. I gave her the greenlight for everything saying that I am quite strong, so she did not hold back. She was not shy to tackle any of the tension I needed to release, and was able to loosen all of the knots, some more than others due to their stubbornness.
Coupled with rotating pressure. She also had me breathing and looking in specific directions for my neck, and squeezing and holding my fist for my wrists. The added movements added healing pain, which was necessary for the results, that are only awarded to the brave.
They were parts where I had to breathe through the uncomfortable pain, but was more than willing to do it. The results were worth it, I walked away with so much tension released, my shoulders feeling incredibly loose, the soreness in my forearms felt therapeutic, and it immediately alleviated some pain from my afflicted wrists.
Truly, the best massage I have had to date, and I will need to make note of her name so that I can return for maintenance and upkeep from her in the future. I cannot recommend Knead and her anymore.
At session’s end, it felt like too quick. As a parting gift, I accepted a stunning glass of floral tea. This was a lovely way to bring me back into the moment. However, less enjoyable in the small space waiting room as clients came and went.
And before you leave, be sure to stop by their washroom. I love a good washroom moment and the girly zebra jungle moment they have created is fantastic.
Knead Foot & Body Massage Studio Marpole
7918 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6P 472
(604) 388-9697
theknead.ca
