Is a Couples Massage Worth It?: Why You & Your Partner Need to Try This Experience
If you thought a single massage was relaxing, just imagine the healing power of two. At Izumi, you can not only imagine this but experience it firsthand, thanks to our couple massage packages. What is a couples massage? It’s exactly what it says on the tin: a massage (or spa treatment) that you receive side-by-side with a partner. This doesn’t necessarily need to be a romantic partner, either: you can get a couples massage with anyone, so long as you’re ready for the intimacy that comes along with it!
If you’re reading this blog post, chances are you’re questioning if a couples massage is worth it. If you want the short answer to that question, it’s yes! Whether you want to integrate couples massages into your regular itinerary or book one for your next date night, you need to try a couples massage at least once. Here’s why we think it’s the spa treatment Melbourne is craving most right now.
It’s Like a Regular Massage But Twice As Good
Lovers of massage will know the benefits a single session can bring. Some massages—such as our shiatsu, reflexology and deep tissue options—isolate pressure points to boost circulation and release muscular tension and toxins. Gentler alternatives—such as our aromatherapy, lomi lomi and hot stone massages—focus more on introducing a sense of relaxation using soft strokes, essential oils or (as the name suggests) hot stones. Although intentions and approaches may vary, the end goal of massage is generally the same: to activate the parasympathetic nervous system and release tension from the body and mind. Basically, it’s the ultimate form of ‘me’ time.
While a massage can be a solitary experience, there’s something special about spending that sacred time with a loved one. However frazzled you both are in the beginning, you’ll each come out the other side feeling relaxed and revitalised. As humans, we are social creatures who crave connections with others. A couples massage is a fantastic way to share the love and keep the good vibes flowing.
It Counts as Quality Time
If you’re a married or cohabiting couple, it can be easy to succumb to the illusion that you’re spending quality time together when you’re actually not. When you see each other every morning and every evening and sleep side-by-side every night, you can fall into the trap of believing that you ‘see each other all the time’. While it’s not incorrect that coexistence lends to spending time in one another’s presence, there’s going to be nothing qualitative about that time. Even if you see each other every day, it’s important to put time aside to enjoy one another’s company and partake in shared activities.
A couples massage is a perfect way to do that. This does double if you’re struggling to find hobbies that you and your partner share! Some activities are so niche that they won’t spark your interest—perhaps your partner likes historical European martial arts and you like salsa dancing—but a massage is more like roller skating or going to the movies: it’s an activity most people will enjoy. Give it a try and see if you both like it. Best-case scenario, you’ve unlocked a new activity or ritual you can both enjoy as a couple!
It’s Intimate & Romantic
What is so romantic about couples massages, you ask? For starters, a massage necessitates each of you removing your tops, so it’s pretty intimate from the get-go. The thing that makes it romantic, though, is the fact that you’re each entering a vulnerable space, shedding yourself of your layers both physical (i.e. clothes) and mental. Massage is the time when all inhibitions or defence mechanisms melt away and deep relaxation or healing begins.
When the stress hormones are massaged out of your body, they’re replaced with feel-good hormones such as endorphins, serotonin, dopamine and oxytocin. If you’re feeling closer or more bonded to your partner during or following a couples massage, oxytocin is likely the culprit. Known as the ‘cuddle hormone’, oxytocin promotes bonding, trust, romantic attachment and a desire for physical intimacy. A great way to keep the oxytocin flowing is to pair your massage with an additional spa treatment, like a facial or foot spa. If you browse our range of couples massages, you’ll notice that each comes with a minimum of two treatments—and this is by design.
If you’re wondering what to wear to a couples massage, you can rest assured that you won’t need to rock up scantily clad. A general rule of thumb is to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, but you can also double-check with your masseuse for specifics.
It Could Be the Break You Both Need
For many of us, treating ourselves can feel selfish. While getting a massage is a wonderful and often necessary act of self-care, it can feel overly-indulgent to someone who isn’t used to prioritising their own needs. If you relate to this feeling, it might help if you book a couples massage. Getting a massage with a friend can make it feel like more of a special and social event. This makes it easier to do without having to deal with that nagging guilty feeling. If asking a friend to join is what it takes to help you nurture your physical and emotional wellbeing, then booking a couples massage is what you should do!
Where To Get a Couples Massage Near Me
Seeking that spa treatment Melbourne is raving about? Book a couples massage at Izumi. Renowned for our signature shiatsu massage, we specialise in Japanese massage and spa treatments. Come in and discover our tranquil space and restore balance to your mind, body and being. We can’t wait to treat you to one of our luxurious couples massage packages.