GOODS & SERVICES • FOUND Spa
Massages don’t have to be reserved for special occasions. If anything, the more (and more casual) massages, the better. And if you can somehow swing regular massages at a beautiful spot, you’ve punched a perfect ticket. Such is the case with the new Emeryville outpost of the chic boutique chain The NOW Massage. Yes, it’s in an outdoor shopping mall, but the new branch maintains NOW’s signature breezy aesthetic once you leave the mall behind.
A day before my annual trip to Europe, I paid NOW Emeryville a visit. At reception, I was offered a cool eye mask and a hot stone enhancement to my signature massage, and with that, I was escorted into a relaxing, dim hall populated by intimate, cosily lit partitions hidden from sight with heavy curtains. The soundtrack of crushing waves (a pleasing auditory touch) enveloped me in a sense of calm as I laid on the table and enumerated my sore points. Unlike the many massages I’ve had in my life, the NOW signature massage starts lying face up, with a convenient bolster under your knees to ensure maximum relaxation. I found this a more natural, easy way to start a massage, with the face-down phase a soothing, final accord.
In addition to the signature Swedish massage, NOW Emeryville offers the Stretch, a massage focused on simulating the lymphatic system. All are available in three lengths (20, 50, and 80 minutes). As my therapist expertly massaged my limbs to the sound of the ocean, I wished I booked the longest version — but of course, given that it’s not a special occasion, I’ll likely be back, and soon. –Flora Tsapovsky
→ The NOW Massage (Emeryville) • 5689 Bay St • Book.