“Did you see that email?” “Have you got five minutes to chat through this thing?” “What’s for dinner?” “Where’s my wallet?” “Have you called mum this week?” “What are we doing this weekend?”
Sound familiar? While it’s flattering to be considered someone who has all the answers, there might be times when, like us, you could really use a break from constant questioning.
Well, allow us to introduce you to MASAJ; the wellness brand that offers the closest thing to a real-time pause button from work deadlines and domestic duties.
Amy Hunter
It has three beautifully minimal studios in London: one in Shoreditch, another in Marylebone and after a successful, 18-month run in Soho, a full-time residency in the beautiful Pfeffer Sal skincare clinic in Fitzrovia. Each offers MASAJ’s signature treatments, which cover six core areas:
No.1 – Relaxing Massage
For total relaxation. You can also choose to focus on a particular area for 30 minutes, or go for longer with a 60, 90 or 120 minute full-body.
No. 2 – Deep tissue Massage
Helps to release muscular pain in areas that are prone to tension. This is a full-body, deep- tissue designed to relax muscle fibres and improve circulation.
No. 3 – Focus Area Massage
Ideal for targeting an area that feels overworked. Perhaps your neck and shoulders need a wiggle from too much sitting down? Or your feet could use some deep-tissue work. The best part, it’s available in 30 / 45 / 60 / 75 / 90 / 120 minute sessions.
No. 4 – Sports Massage
For always-on-the go bodies. This is a recuperating sports massage that targets a problem area or two. For those particularly active types, this helps relieve overexerted muscle groups.
No. 5 – Pregnancy & Post Natal Massage
This is a self-care massage with full body or focused muscle work, helping to relieve the stresses and strains of carrying a human.
No. 6 – Lymphatic Drainage Massage
For those looking for a healing massage that digs a little deeper. This is a gentle treatment that helps to move lymph fluid around the body for better circulation and immune function.
As well as these six core treatments, the Marylebone and Shoreditch MASAJ studios also offer couples sessions so you can bring a plus one and either share your massage experience in the same room or choose to have separate sessions.
Each of the MASAJ studios is an earth-toned cocoon. They’re tucked away from some of London’s liveliest streets and whether it’s smart insulation or slipping into a zen state, you somehow don’t even notice the hum of traffic outside. Once you’ve picked your treatment and chatted through any areas you’d like to focus on, you can choose a playlist and even let your therapist know how much interaction you’d like during your session. As big believers in the power of touch, there’s certainly a feeling of being gently swaddled at MASAJ – every step of the experience is tailored to your specific needs.
Post massage, you’ll be asked a question you’ll be only too happy to answer: “would you like a herbal tea or infused water to help you unwind?”
NOTE: MASAJ studios are open every day. You can find out more and book a treatment on the MASAJ website.
Shoreditch: 10 Charlotte Road, EC2A 3DH | Marylebone: 34a Paddington Street, W1U 4HG | Pfeffer Sal: The Stables, 10B Warren Mews, W1T 6BY
Looking for more excuses to bliss out? Read our guide to the best saunas in London.
