Cupping & Foot Massage
Today we were at the North Vancouver location of Yuen Foot Massage & Spa. A welcoming space with grounding crystals, trickling running water, and soft piano hymns. Peace and tranquillity to set the tone for a relaxing experience from the getgo.
We came as a couple and were given a private room to share. This would be the first time for us both. Foot massages are done on one of the most comfortable seats I have ever sat in. Large, squared, and roomy with plenty of cushioned support.
The treatment begins with a bucket of hot water lined with plastic and equipped with dull spikes at its bottom. You soak your feet in the hot water and your body quickly adjusts. The bumps also help to soften the soles of your feet for the massage to come.
As you soak and rest the masseuse gives you a 10 minute back massage. Over a towel your neck, shoulders, and arms are kneaded, rolled, and chopped. The latter came towards the end and startled me, catching me off guard and simultaneously waking me in alert.
I especially appreciated the hand massage as each was flexed by the wrist and I ndividual fingers cracked at each knuckle.
We were them told to pivot and take our seat within the reclinder, and given a heated neck pillow for extra comfort.
Each limb moisturized and wrapped one at a time as each leg is given its own service. With oiled palms each leg was stretched and ankles to toes loosened. Even the tops of toes are pulsed and rubbed. Top and bottom, the whole foot is pampered. It was so comfortable that it was a challenge to not fall asleep.
I just could have used more pressure and would have liked to been told more about the reflexology process. What they felt and learned from the kneading.
The service ended with each foot being wiped clean with a hot towel and dried thoroughly down to each individual toe, one at a time. The foot as a whole punched, slapped, and flicked.
Next we moved into a couple’s room with massage tables. However, there are also shared rooms where you can more easily go from feet to back massage in one.
We would both try cupping. I have had the traditional method with glass and flame done to me before, but this would be the first time with suction. And given the results, I would say it is a lot more effective.
With a battery operated gun and plastic cups the trainned technician pin points pain points and places a cup over the skin. The cup uses suction to draw blood to or away from specific areas of the body.
It is left pn for 10-15 minutes to increase blood flow, soften scar tissue, and decrease muscle pain. It can also help with chronic and ongoing health issues like back pain, arthritis, depression, migraines, and acne.
Some supporters of cupping therapy also suggest that it can aid in fat reduction. The suction created by the cups is believed to stimulate the lymphatic system, potentially facilitating the removal of toxins and fatty deposits from the body. Similarly it can also increase oxygen-rich blood circulation, revitalizing your skin and strengthening it and connective tissues, thus reducing sagging and making your skin firmer and tighter.
The sensation is like nothing else. The tension and tightness it causes creates great pressure and higher levels of discomfort. It is hard to relax and seek calm, compared to a traditional massage service. But the results are hard to argue with. More potent and at a quicker speed, with proof of its efficacy in the form of round cupping bruises. Bruising is the sign of the cups doing their job, bringing blood to the surface. Apparently you can tell what ails you by the colour of the bruises. This too I wish they took the time to explain, to better have us understanding its benefits and committing to repeat sessions in the future.
In conclusion, Yuen is a great spot for a quick and easy spa day, plus a fantastic option for a girl’s outting or any celebrating that needs to be done.
Yuen Foot Massage & Spa North Vancouver
99 Mahon Ave, North Vancouver, BC V7M 1A5
(778) 968-7779
yuenspa.com
