At Home With MASAJ: Your Self Massage Guide
AKT x MASAJ
We recently welcomed Andy, founder of AKT to our Marylebone Studio. During his visit, we chatted all things bodywork and it's profound benefits. Now, we are thrilled to announce our collaboration with AKT, by introducing The Applicator – a premium brass tool inspired the Chinese practice of Gua Sha, and a vital piece of equipment for self-massage enthusiasts.
In line with this collaboration, we've created this self-massage guide, with techniques and tips on how to create the ultimate relaxation in the comfort of your own home. Plus, we've got an exciting giveaway of The Applicator with AKT... more info at the bottom of this guide!
In The Right Hands
This guide has been put together with the help of bodyworker and self-massage specialist, Ayanna - one of many the talented Therapists here at MASAJ.
Ayanna believes that creating a soothing and rejuvenating self-massage experience at home is easy, and a great way to end or prepare for a stressful day. With some simple yet effective tips, you too can recreate the serenity and relaxation associated with our MASAJ studios at home. 
Prepare Your Body
As with our Seated and Table-based setup, the first thing is to prepare your body for the massage. A great way to do this is by warming up your favourite cream or body oil in your palms, to ensure a smooth glide of your hands and The Applicator during your massage. We recommend the Body Cream from Austin Austin – one of our favourites, available for purchase in our Soho & Marylebone studios!
Particularly effective after a hot shower, begin to slowly apply light pressure along tense areas to promote circulation and prepare your muscles for what’s to come.
Massage Techniques
Once your body is suitably warmed up, you can begin to apply deeper pressure to your most tense areas. When using The Applicator, remember to use controlled movements and focus on your breath to soothe your nervous system. You can vary the pressure by using the edge of The Applicator for a more intense experience and the flat side for a deeper, soothing touch.
When needed, employ your thumbs for additional pressure and focus on improving circulation by moving in a clockwise motion – massage down the inside of your arms and back up along the outside. Pay particular attention to your upper back and shoulders, common areas of tension, by starting from the edge of your neck and gently pushing The Applicator outward along your shoulders.
By utilising just a couple of these simple techniques into your self-massage routine, you can easily alleviate tension, energise yourself for a productive day, or unwind into a cosy evening of relaxation.
MASAJ Ambiance
The beauty of self-massage lies in its versatility. Whether you're in need of a quick tension release or seeking to rejuvenate for a busy day ahead, self-massage can be incorporated easily. Some prefer to re-create the calm atmosphere of our Studios by using dim lights, relaxing music, or by using our signature scented candles to enhance the at home experience. While others, enjoy self-massage while watching TV or during a catch-up with a friend – the key is to adapt it to what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you.
By integrating self-massage into your day-to-day, you can enhance your overall well-being and embrace relaxation as a part of your everyday life.
This week, exclusively at our Marylebone Studio, any retail purchase of £40 or more will entitle you to a free AKT Applicator, an offer only available to the first 12 customers... so 'AKT' fast!
The Applicator will find its way to the official retail lineup of our Marylebone Studio from the 16th of October. Plus, as an added extra, use code AKTLDN10 on our website for 10% off all treatments at our Marylebone or Soho studios, until October 31st!
Stay tuned for more self-massage talk this week, with an exciting interview between Ayanna and Andy, founder of AKT – keep a look out on our socials!
