A Little Bit of Paradise at Essence Massage Studio

Do you find yourself trying to find time for laundry and grocery shopping between work and the little league game? Do you visit a spa once a week, as a special treat or have you never stepped foot in one?  Do you have a health condition or injury that may be improved by massage? No matter which response you had, Essence Massage Studio can make you feel like you have travelled a million miles away from the stress of daily life. The best part is Essence is located only a few short miles from the 'Boro, at 51 Man Mar Dr. Unit 5, in Plainville.

I am a busy mom who was, believe it or not, a spa novice until taking my own Passport to Paradise. The day began at a pool party for 16 children under the age of 10 so going anywhere alone for an hour did not sound like a bad idea!

The afternoon at Essence turned out to be not only incredibly relaxing, but surprisingly educational. I was a bit nervous, but decided to try a tandem massage. The soothing decor and friendly, professional staff immediately put me at ease. 

A tandem massage has two therapists massaging one client to create a balanced and unique four hands approach. Having your feet and back massaged at the same time is something I highly recommend, it was amazing! It felt as though I had been transported to a beautiful beach on a tropical island. The ambiance, lavender aromatherapy and lighting created an environment of sheer perfrection. I cannnot remember ever feeling as relaxed and pampered as I did during my visit to Essence! 

Essence Massage Studio has been in business since 2008 and is owned by Janine MacArthur. MacArthur has been a licensed  massage therapist since 2005 and is also a Reiki master and certified teacher.

Wondering what the benefits of massage therapy are and who can benefit? I thought a visit to a spa was simply an opportunity to relax and escape day-to-day cares, boy was I wrong!

During my treatment I discovered that years of migranes and stress that center in my shoulders, neck and jaw can be improved through massage therapy. Massage has many physical, emotional and spiritual benefits and has been found to improve circulation and flexibility. It can reduce stress, muscle tightness, aches and pains, anxiety, depression and blood pressure and enhance the immune system and improve posture.

What makes Essence stand out is that sessions with their professional staff are customized to customers' individual needs and goals to create balance and wellness in their life. Their clients range in age from six to the elderly and include moms, doctors, teachers, construction workers and nurses. 

Can massage improve the symptoms of any specific health conditions? After my treatment I had the opportunity to speak with Nicole and Judy Caron of North Attleboro who have been clients of Janine's for six years.

Nicole Caron is a 21-year-old college student who was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at the age of 15. As a mom I know that we will leave no stone unturned to help our children. Judy brought her daughter Nicole to a chiropractor for treatment who recommended massage therapy, which led the Carons to Essence. The results have formed a strong bond between MacArthur and the Caron family. 

When the younger Caron began treatment she had spent most of the summer on the couch suffering with migranes. After massage treatment Nicole's migranes and muscle tightness were dramatically improved. Nicole continues to receive maintenance massages and recently participated in a

Her mother Judy has also benefited from massage treatments from MacArthur after she pulled her back out. 

"Janine is incredible, a massage from her is beyond the best I have ever experienced," Judy Caron said.

MacArthur attended the event and provided free massages to the participants to help them through the second day. MacArthur said she loves when she is able to lessen the need for medication and improve the wellness of her clients. 

Essence offers swedish, sports, deep tissue, prenatal, tandem, hot stone and couples massage. MacArthur and her professional staff also provide Reiki classes, body wraps, scrubs, manicures and pedicures.  They provide "ladies night out" parties and will bring their spa services to your workplace. Essence uses all natural organic and vegan products and essential oils. 

Be sure to read tomorrow's Passport on where to find treasures in the 'Boro.