Men and Massage

Many men are turning to massage to manage stress and to enhance their overall health and well being. Massage has become increasingly popular with men over the last two decades in both spas and clinics. The number of men booking monthly, bi-weekly and weekly massage sessions is at an all time high and growing steadily.

Generally speaking, men are seeking the same results from their massages as women. Men are especially interested in the pain relief properties and enhanced athletic performance that therapeutic massage can create.

For men over 30 in particular, the health benefits of massage are a draw, as well as the stress relief and anti-aging benefits of massage.

Benefits most often reported by men from their massages include:

• relief from chronic pain
• relief from old injuries
• increased range of motion 
• neck and shoulder tension relief
• recovery from work related stress
• recovery from travel fatigue 
• decreased recovery time from sports injuries and pain 
• improved performance at the gym
• headache relief 
• improved sleep
• overall relaxation

Men are more likely than women to stick to a regular massage time slot. Our male clients are highly likely to get a massage series to save money on individual sessions. Massages favored by men include:

• scalp massage
• sports massage
• deep tissue massage
• myofascial massage
• foot massage
• our deep therapeutic foot massage
• hot stones
• our signature massage
• the massage and scrub combo

Urban Sanctuary is a man-friendly spa. We had men in mind when we designed our space and our service offerings. Spas are not just for women anymore. Times have changed. Everyone benefits from a good self care and stress prevention regime.

We like to say, "be kind and unwind"... 

5 Fruits That Heal Joint Pain and Recommended Massages

Joint pain can plague people of all ages and it becomes more likely as the years pass. Even teenagers experience joint pain on occasion resulting from binging  on processed sugary foods or over exertion. Adults experience joint pain and inflammation caused by food allergens, sports injuries or many other stresses that tax the body. Plenty of folks who have not been diagnosed with arthritis often experience  joint pain when the weather is cold and damp. 

Quality therapeutic massage, healing herbal bath soaks and foot massage are great remedies for nagging joint pain. 

Also, there are some great food cures for pain and in particular a handful of fruits that have a great capacity for reducing joint pain and inflammation. 

These five fruits are amazing pain relievers:

-Papaya

-Cherries

-Pineapple 

-Blueberries

-Raspberries 

At Urban Sanctuary, we specialize in results producing, pain relieving massage . Sports Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Neck Massage, Aromatherapy Massage, Hot Stone Massage and Asian Foot Massage are a few that effectively deal with joint pain and inflammation. There are probably a couple of massage modalities from that list that would be a perfect fit for you. Call 706-613-3947 for a recommendation or consultation. Read about the benefits of massage and the various massage modalities in our blog archives.

Sandalwood Aromatherapy Benefits

Urban Sanctuary has Sandalwood soap and candles available for purchase and features a Sandalwood Scalp  massage.

Sandalwood is a very precocious essential oil with great medicinal and fortifying properties. It is one of the most expensive essential oils on the planet, to harvest, because the Sandalwood tree must be at least 30 years old before it produces any of the sweet oil. Sandalwood trees are considered sacred in several of the countries where they thrive and that limits the availability and increases the value in the world marketplace. The effects of the oil are incredible and well worth the effort, if you can find a small vial to purchase and use at home.

Sandalwood aromatherapy is great for scalp and foot massage, because it pacifies the nervous system and brings calm and focus to scattered, fragmented energy. Sandalwood oil is both calming and cooling for overactive skin. It is healing and balancing in cases of inflammation, insomnia, frayed nerves, lack of sex drive, a racing mind, lack of focus, anxiety, dry skin, dry scalp and itchy scalp. Here are some of the primary benefits in list form. Sandalwood oil is commonly used to promote:

• peace
• balanced nerves
• restful sleep
• meditation
• sex drive
• calm
• confidence
• healthy skin
• healthy scalp
• focus
• spiritual fortitude

Sandalwood has been used throughout the ages in meditation practice. It is known for heart healing and opening. It's also a powerful aphrodisiac.

Sandalwood can be found in many soaps, candles, bath and cosmetic blends. It has a sweet woodsy scent that is slightly masculine with out being overpowering. It is popular with both men and women.

Try a Sandalwood Scalp and Neck Massage at Urban Sanctuary. Or stop into our store and sample our Zum sandalwood soap and candles. Call 706-613-3947 to inquire or book yourself a massage and spa service. We are open seven days a week, in Athens, Georgia to provide the perfect place to unwind...

9 Reasons to Choose Urban Sanctuary

1 We Give Result-Producing Massages:

Bring us your headaches, your sciatica, your frozen shoulder. We'll work with your sports injuries, the crick in your neck and that hitch in your lower back. At Urban Sanctuary we have a strong track record of results producing massages that make a measurable difference in the chronic pain and stress ailments that you are dealing with. Ask for deep tissue, myofascial, sports massage, deep therapeutic foot massage or let us make a specific recommendation to address what ails you.

2 We Are An Award Winning Spa:

Urban Sanctuary won Best Day Spa in Athens. We’ve enjoyed a Beautiful Business Award and a Historic Preservation Award. The greatest honor of all has been to be voted Athens’ Favorite Day Spa by the readers of Flagpole Magazine for three consecutive years. 

3 We Specialize In Services For Men:

We are a Man-Friendly Spa. We had men in mind when we designed our space. We have a Men’s Service Menu, which includes Massage, Pedicures, Facials and Waxing. Men are welcome to unwind and to enjoy services designed specifically for them.

4 We Celebrate Relationships:

Unwind at Urban Sanctuary together. We have many offerings for groups and for pairs. Mother Daughter Spa Days, Birthday Parties, Spa Parties, Bridal Spa Services, Staff Parties and Services for Couples.

5 We Are Eco-Friendly:

We maintain eco-friendly practices in our day-to-day operations. We carry many eco-friendly product lines as well as organic products, natural, fair trade, handmade, free trade, cruelty free, chemical free, vegan and biodegradable products and gifts.

6 We Are a Sanctuary:

Unwind in this tranquil and serene space. Our clients do not have to compete with the hustle and bustle of a salon. The colors, the aromas and the music weave together naturally to create the perfect space to unwind.

7 WE ARE OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK:

 That gives you plenty to choose from.

8 We Provide Skincare That Makes a Visible and Lasting Difference:

Our estheticians are passionate about skincare and give extraordinary customer service. Have a facial that addresses your unique skin type and learn how to best care for your face at home with wholesome, natural and effective products.

9 We Guarantee All of Our Services:

At Urban Sanctuary we are committed to excellent customer service. We stand firmly behind that with a money back guarantee. If you are not happy with your service, we will offer you a “do-over” to ensure that your experience meets your expectations--or you can have your money back. You deserve to feel happy and well taken care of and you will be, here at Urban Sanctuary.

810 N. Chase Street  Athens, Georgia 30601   •  706.613.3947

 www.urbansanctuaryspa.com  urbansanctuaryspablogspot.com

Staff Highlight: Terra Johnson

A rose petal foot bath and pedicure top off a Queen for a Day Spa Day at Urban Sanctuary.

Terra Johnson does manicures and pedicures at Urban Sanctuary .   She specializes in the Asian Foot Massage Pedicure and gives an amazing foot massage. We are really happy to have her with us. Thanks to Terra, you now have many more options to choose from in the evenings and on the weekends when scheduling your manicures and pedicures at Urban Sanctuary. These additional options include Sundays from 1:00-6:00. Hooray!

Terra's favorite services are the Asian Foot Massage Pedicure, the Urban Pedicure and the Urban Manicure. She gives a great hand and foot massage and is truly a good listener. Have a service with Terra and you'll have an opportunity to talk about your day, decompress and just completely unwind....


Terra, what got you interested in studying cosmetology and doing nails?

I have been painting other peoples' nails since I was seven years old. I used to love watching my mom do her make-up and hair. I have always been a "girly" girl, myself. I just love it all. Nail polish, make up, accessories--you name it! I think it's fun!

Tell us about your family.

I've been married for seven years and have two great step kids. Elizabeth is 12 (not at all into my nail polish and make up!) and Sloan is 17. We have two very spoiled dogs.

Tell us about life in your hometown.

Elberton is where I grew up and I still live there. It's about 45 minutes outside of Athens. In Elberton, you mostly have granite companies. I have worked for two of them. Once in a granite slab house and another time working with people designing custom kitchen counters. Everybody knows everybody in Elberton.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I love planting flowers and doing yard work. I take great pride in my yard and really enjoy finding rare and unusual plants to display. I get that from my father. I also like cooking, entertaining friends and family, and listening to music. Our favorite restaurant is called Moogy's. It's in Tacoa.

Any favorite movies or TV shows?

I'm completely addicted to all of the Housewives shows! Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Real Housewives of Atlanta, Orange County, New York and the list goes on. I'm a junky. I also love the Food Network. Pretty Woman is my all time favorite movie!

Terra is really fun. Whether you just love dishing about reality television or not, you'll find her company to be delightful. Book a manicure or pedicure with Terra today by calling 706-613-3947. View our entire menu of spa services online at Urban Sanctuary Spa.

Photo taken during a little girls' spa party at Urban Sanctuary.

Deep Tissue Therapeutic Foot Massage

  Not for the faint hearted, but enormously productive for those who have plantar fasciitus, hammer toe, dancer's feet or old foot and ankle injuries. Our Deep Tissue Therapeutic Foot Massage routine aims to produce measurable improvements in your stance, gate and range of motion. The deep myofascial work included in this massage usually impacts overall posture for people after just one session!

  Our Deep Therapeutic Foot Massage is available at Urban Sanctuary for 60 minute sessions, 90 minute sessions and two hours. The time flies by even during a two hour session, as hard as that is to believe. It takes the initial 20-30 minutes of the massage to open up the energy and blood flow in the legs, knees, hips and torso to prepare your feet for the therapy to come next. Your ankles, arches, calves and soles require time to warm up, soften and let go of surface tensions before the deep therapy can begin. This should not be rushed. No need to cause you white knuckling pain by zipping through this massage. Most massage therapists agree that effective deep tissue requires a slow hand and careful attention. This has never been more the case than when handling your soles...

Who this is good for:

• men with thick or dense foot tissue
• runners, cyclists and tennis players
• professional dancers
• athletes
• people engaged in foot pounding activities
• people with old foot injuries that continue to affect their gate

  The Deep Therapeutic Foot Massage will usually "hurt good" and therefore allow for the release of old holding patterns in your feet and ankles. Deep specific friction helps to break up scar tissue and adhesion. A variety of methods are implored to allow for the release of chronic pain. This is a highly intentional and slow moving massage. In order to fully stretch and expand the tissue of the soles of the feet, slow thorough coverage works best. Along the arches and heels, slow pinning, stretching, stripping and deep specific friction are employed. If you can give yourself an hour or longer, you will be very happy with the transformation that comes...

BENEFITS

• releases knee, hip and low back pain
• relieves plantar fasciitus
• hammer toe
• old football and sports injuries to the feet
• improves stance and balance
• lengthens the body by releasing restricted muscles
• helps recover the feet from regular pounding (tennis, running)
• helps recover the feet from restrictive shoes (high heels, work boots) 
• releases holding patterns affecting your walk and the way you stand
• rejuvenating

   Please call us with questions or to schedule a foot massage at 706-613-3947. At Urban Sanctuary we have an army of massage therapists ready to transform your feet...

12 Benefits of Asian Foot Massage

   At Urban Sanctuary, we very much respect and appreciate the wisdom of the East. The Asian Foot Massage was the first to grace our menu of foot services when we opened 8 years ago. Today it is the most popular of our foot massage offerings. The wholesome and energetic approach of our Asian Foot massage routine addresses the entire body, creating freedom and renewed energy in the legs, hips & back. The feet are connected to the legs, the legs are connected to the back, the back is connected to the head and in between you have your ankles, knees, hips and so on... The overall balancing and recharging effects of this massage are quite remarkable!

   The Asian Foot Massage incorporates Thai, Japanese and East Indian massage techniques. Three powerful healing traditions from the East are combined with some of our unique methods (developed at Urban Sanctuary in Athens, Georgia). All are engaged to release tension, pain and restrictions in the toes, ankles, feet and legs. In doing so, the hips, knees and back are often completely renewed. In fact, many find this massage to renew their entire being.

  The list of possible health benefits is quite extensive. Here are twelve:

1. Relaxes the Feet, Legs, Hips & Back
2. Improves Flexibility
3. Increases Range of Motion
4. Eases Soreness from Standing, Walking, Sports & Running
5. Helps with Neuropathy
6. Eases Foot Cramps, Aches & Pains
7. Headaches, Dizziness & Lightheadedness
8. Improves Balance, Gait and Posture
9. Increases Circulation
10. Recovers old Injuries
11. Relieves Stress & Tension
12. Feels Amazing 

   This very rounded approach to foot massage incorporates rhythmical movements to gently coax tension out of the legs, hips, low back and feet. The rocking, rotations and compressions open up meridians in the legs and along the entire spine. People often feel a rush of energy through the sacrum and along the spine as the massage progresses. People often feel their pelvis and low back relax. It extends up to the face, neck & shoulders for many.

   Your feet spend years holding the weight of your entire body. That is a big job. Extra wear & tear is caused by flip flops, ballet shoes, work boots, high heels and many types of dress shoes. Feet change shape over time to accommodate your shoes as well as your standing and living habits. Having the soles of your feet massaged and stretched helps make it so that your stance is better. This in turn helps with balance, coordination and posture. The more pliable and relaxed the soles of your feet are, the more your feet can properly mold to the ground and contact the ground when you stand and walk. A sure and steady stance is very good for the health of your knees, hips and back. The older we get, the more likely this is to be compromised.  People notice their stance improve after just one massage!

  This foot massage is recommended for adults of all ages and it is especially beneficial for older people. It's not usually recommended for pregnant women or for children. There are exceptions, of course. It is enjoyable as a 30 minute or a 60 minute service. An hour allows for much more thorough coverage of the feet, ankles and legs with time to address specific problem areas. Some people request 90 minutes or 2 hours. We offer both the Asian Foot Massage and our Deep Tissue Therapeutic Foot Massage in 1 hour, 90 minute and 2 hour appointments. One hour appointments are the perfect fit for most, but 90 and 120 minute appointments have served to treat people with Plantar Fasciitus and chronic foot pain very well...

 

  Call Urban Sanctuary at 706-613-3947 to book an Asian Foot Massage for yourself or a friend. We have more than 14 people who have special training with this massage on staff. You can have this incorporated into a pedicure or booked as a massage to be received lying down on the massage table in a private spa room. You have an array of in-house-made herbal foot baths to choose from, should you decide to have a foot bath to compliment your massage. Email questions to candice@urbansanctuaryspa.com. Our entire menu of services can be viewed online at http://www.urbansanctuaryspa.com/


 
 

Your First Massage: How To Choose and How Long It Should Be

Urban Sanctuary is nestled in the historic Boulevard district of Athens, Georgia.

     Massage is the most popular of all types of spa services. Massage therapists use various techniques to heal and relax both mind and body. There are many types of massage to choose from. Below are some frequently asked questions and answers regarding the massages we offer at Urban Sanctuary.

What kind of massage should I get? 
     There is no short answer to this question. It all depends on your personal likes and dislikes. Here are a few to consider:

• Swedish Massage-- is a safe bet for a first time client who would just like to relax. It is the most well-known type of massage and incorporates lots of kneading and long gliding strokes.
• Our Signature Massage-- we recommend for clients who want to experience a sampling of several  techniques and massage styles during one massage. It's a good way to help you learn what your preferences are. Our Signature Massage rolls Hot Stones, Dry Brushing, Aromatherapy and Deep Tissue techniques into one graceful treatment.
• Back, Neck and Shoulder-- this massage targets where many people ache the most. A good choice for a first timer.
• Deep Tissue or Sports Massage-- are perfect for you if you'd like to work out a few specific areas of your body or prepare yourself for strenuous activity. Both massage styles target the client's goals in a very productive, result-oriented way. The focused and directed attention to detail makes a lot of people feel very satisfied. If that sounds good to you, choose either deep tissue or sports massage for your first time. Both modalities appeal to people who prefer deeper pressure.
• Prenatal Massage-- addresses the special needs of an expecting mother. We perform prenatal massages in the side lying position and incorporate special techniques to address swollen ankles, legs and sinuses. Extra time and attention is devoted to the low back and hip area as well. We avoid using extra heat, very deep pressure and most aromatherapy during prenatal massages.
• Aromatherapy Massage-- focuses on incorporating essential oils in the massage and working the aromatherapy into your system. Lots of wave-like and rhythmical strokes orchestrate this very graceful, mood-altering massage. A great choice if you like aromatherapy. Not for pregnant women or people craving deep tissue work.

Want to try something other than the massages described above?
     We also offer Hot Stones, Thai massage, Foot Massages and Scalp Treatments to name a few. Read about the massages that aren't described here, on our website www.urbansanctuaryspa.com or  call us for help choosing which one to schedule... Your massage therapist will be a good person to help you decide which massage style will best serve your needs.

How long should my massage be?
     

• Half Hour Massages-- work great for attending to a specific area, like a face and scalp massage, foot massage, or back, neck and shoulder massage. A Headache Massage, sinus massage, or TMJ Massage fit into 30 minutes nicely. It's not long enough for a full body massage, but it is long enough to turn your day around. Tess Wilson and Alan McArthur both enjoy giving thirty minute massages.

• 1 Hour Massages-- are the most common length booked. Full body massages and massages for specific areas of tension work very well in an hour's time. Our Signature Massage starts at an hour because it combines three techniques. The Aromatherapy Massage and Full Body Hot Stone Massages are booked at an hour and up. Elizabeth, Suzy and Becca love to give 60 minute massages.
• 1.5 Hour Massages-- work best for tension and knots all over,  for deep relaxation and for people who need a combination of several different massages. Some of our clients with high-stress jobs like to get a 1.5 hour Swedish so they can completely unwind and turn off their racing minds. My'leka, Jen Berry and Nathan enjoy giving 90 minute massages.
• 2 Hour Massages-- are best if you need complete transformation. Do you need thorough coverage of a chronic pain area with plenty of time left over for a full body massage? Would you enjoy Reflexology, Scalp Massage and a Deep Tissue Massage all combined in one visit? Two hour massages are very transformative. Nina Paterson, David Williams, Candice and Krista Kramer each love to give 2 hour massages at Urban Sanctuary. 

  We can help you determine which massage type will best address your needs. We can also pair you with a massage therapist who will be a nice fit for you. Send your inquiries about massage by e-mail or call us. Our email is info@urbansanctuaryspa.com and our phone number is 706-613-3947.

Massage and Spa Services for People with Cancer

Healing and Nurturing Services Make A Difference

Urban Sanctuary specializes in services for people with cancer.

People with cancer can benefit beautifully from massage as well as other spa services involving touch. The healing aspects of massage and nurturing services for anyone facing a health challenge are absolutely remarkable. Doctors' recommendations and patients needs can be accommodated by most massage therapists and spa professionals. 

At Urban Sanctuary, we have experience providing services for people with cancer, and we have many success stories to share. Also, we've done a lot of research on this topic and feel confident about how we can help those who have cancer. Urban Sanctuary has special guidelines and accommodations for men and women in ALL phases of treatment and recovery. This includes service offerings for people with terminal cancer.

It's truly a joy to able to make a difference. Here are some of the benefits of hand and foot massages, Reiki, gentle facials, foot baths and full body massage that clients have reported:

• reduced stress
• insomnia relief
• eased muscular aches and pains
• immune system support
• relief from nueropathy
• increased circulation and blood flow
• restored balance to the nervous system
• eased nausea (foot soaks and foot massage)
• reduced headaches
• eased joint pain
• eased fatigue

Spas around the globe are seeing more and more people come in for services, while in the midst of being treated for cancer... Some doctors ask patients to wait until the courses of radiation and chemotherapy are complete; others give the go ahead during these treatments. There are varying factors to consider for each person making this choice. Spa professionals are making great strides in addressing some of the primary concerns for safety, hygiene and good care.

Several people have been kind enough to let me interview them at length about their experience with cancer and their recovery. The information gleaned has been instrumental in our efforts to fine tune our initial consultation process and our offerings for people with cancer.

Our Special Accommodations include:

•  15-30 minutes extra time booked for consultation
• house calls available
• in room massage at hospital
• ground floor and wheelchair accessible rooms and bathrooms
• unscented products upon request
• chemical free products
• bolstering and pillows for extra comfort 
• services can be received sitting up 
• services can be received fully clothed 
• masks and gloves available to reduce exposure to germs in the atmosphere
• very experienced staff
• very accommodating staff                                

It’s very important to get clearance from your doctor before scheduling your appointment. Your pharmacist can point out what your service providers need to pay attention to most. Services can be modified to work around the side effects of some of the strong drugs used to treat cancer. Not everyone’s needs or preferences are the same, and we understand this.

Urban Sanctuary has special guidelines and accommodations for people with cancer.

 Recommended Services

• foot bath - good for headaches, insomnia and neuropathy 
• hand and foot massage - good for numbness, nervousness and fatigue
• reflexology - can boost immune function, ease headaches and nausea
• abdominal massage - addresses low back ache and sluggish bowels
• aromatherapy massage - soothing, renewing, great immune system support
• light Swedish massage - can avoid or focus on problem areas
• lymphatic massage - boosts circulation, moves toxins out of the body, reduces swelling due to edema
• scalp massage - quiets a restless mind, uplifting
• energy work - Reiki, cranial sacral and polarity work are enjoyable alternatives to massage
• facials - gentle, natural ingredients are a good choice
• natural pedicures - can be modified to accommodate chemical sensitivities 

NOT recommended:

Services incorporating intense exfoliation, heat, deep massage pressure or vigorous stretching are not recommended. These services can be taxing to the system, much like an intense work out at the gym would be. Those services might overwhelm your body, causing it to purge in unpleasant ways. Stick with the gentle services while in recovery until your body is strong again. Services utilizing perfumed products or products with chemicals for the face or nails are not recommended as well. Chemical free products and services are best, which we can provide. 

Our spa atmosphere is designed to be soothing and beautiful. The enriching ambiance has a way of coaxing the stress right out of people. What a gift it is to be able to experience this.

Call Urban Sanctuary at 706-613-3947 to inquire about services for yourself or someone you love. We are open seven days a week. Visit us at 810 North Chase Street in Athens, Georgia or online at www.urbansanctuaryspa.com