A few weeks back I was treated to a luxurious massage at Laya Spa and Yoga located at 986 Queen Street West.
I decided I needed some relaxation so I opted for the Abhyanga Massage which uses warm oils designed to calm, soothe and ground the mind. Sounded EXACTLY what I was looking for!
In the waiting area
Cozy treatment room
I was greeted by Alessandra who was so welcoming and warm. I felt completely comfortable which I always feel is really important when you are getting any sort of treatment especially a body treatment. Let’s face it, you’re essentially nude on the table there so you’re putting a lot of trust in someone!
The massage itself was very different from what I have experienced. When I usually get a massage it’s with an RMT and it’s deep tissue. With this massage the pressure was lighter and I feel like the movements were quicker but the oil involved seemed to help warm up the muscles anyway without pressure.
Without sounding too “cheesy” this massage was more “spiritual” in the sense that I feel like it used more energy rather than physical touch. That may sound completely bizarre to some of you but if you do yoga (and I don’t mean yoga just purely for exercise but yoga with some kind of meditation involved – real yoga as far as I’m concerned!) then you will know what I mean.
I wasn’t feeling too great when I first arrived – we will blame it on women’s issues – but when my treatment was over I can honestly say I felt more relaxed and not as uncomfortable as I did when I first walked in.
As well as massages there are a variety of services including manicures/pedicure and waxing too!
And of course as the name would imply there is also yoga at Laya! I actually really want to try a few classes there. Since moving to Toronto from the suburbs I have not found a yoga studio that I have liked. The classes are usually too full and I don’t feel comfortable. At Laya they keep the classes small (no more than 6!) in order to be able to give each student attention which is exactly what I’m looking for.
Which gives me an idea…if I ever find myself with the luxury of an ENTIRE day off I might look into a yoga class, a massage then a mani/pedi after – doesn’t that sound perfect?!? I just may have to make this happen!
Here is Alessandra – she’s seriously as nice and sweet as she looks!
I REALLY enjoyed my time and Laya Spa and Yoga and am looking forward to paying them another visit soon.