Knead to Get Away? Massage Envy Will Transport You

puts the “mass” in “massage.” Locally, it’s in Casa de Oro.

The company aspires to make massage accessible to all through affordable membership. Whatever it’s doing seems to be working. Last year the increasingly popular chain grew membership in its program by 29 percent in the face of a flailing economy, according to the Sacramento Business Journal.

Membership in the company’s Wellness Program allows access to 600 locations nationwide at a reduced rate. Members receive one pre-paid massage per month, which rolls over to the next month if it isn’t used; additional massages at a discount rate; reduced monthly rates for family members; and guest passes.

The hour-long sessions comprise a five-minute pre-massage interview in which a therapist tries to figure out the best treatment for whatever is ailing the client, a 50-minute massage, and five minutes at the end to dress.

Massage Envy does have an envy-worthy menu of massage styles, including trigger point, Swedish, deep tissue, sports, reflexology, cranial sacral, hot stone, prenatal and geriatric.

The geriatric massage, a unique offering, aims to increase blood circulation, combat depression, improve balance and flexibility, reduce the pain of arthritis, increase joint mobility, improve posture, and encourage overall well-being.

Also available is AromaTherapy, which adds unique oil blends to the massage lotion for an additional $10. Aromatic blends address several different needs, such as aches, pains and anxiety. Deep Heat Relief Muscle Therapy is also offered for $12 more.

Curious about Massage Envy but not ready to commit? Try its special $49 introductory rate for a one-hour massage session.