Massages are a time-honored method of alleviating stress, much like the ancient art of crafting origami swans out of midterm exams. Ace relaxation with this Groupon.
$115 for a Couples-Massage Workshop for Two ($250 Value)
During the three-hour Power of Touch workshop, students buckle up their robes and begin by learning about basic draping etiquette. The facilitators—at least two will be attending—demonstrate various techniques and methods that are taught in massage-therapy schools as couples take turns giving and receiving gentle touch. Though classes contain up to five other couples, each couple always works together, and individuals are able to change in privacy and will be modestly covered throughout the evening. Classes are typically scheduled several weekend afternoons and evenings each month.
Northwest School of Massage
Northwest School of Massage emphasizes individual attention as it helps mold and guide therapists into a field that Time magazine listed among its 150 recession-proof jobs in 2008. During classes capped at 12, students delve into a variety of styles such as shiatsu, Thai massage, craniosacral therapy, and lomi-lomi, learning from licensed and certified instructors. The school's six-month certification program offers students ample opportunities for practice and emphasizes entrepreneurial skills. Graduates can return to sit in on classes at any time to learn new skills and the latest slang words for deltoids.
Power of Touch Workshop
Joe Lavin, a licensed massage therapist, and Wendy Lavin, a licensed physical therapist, combined their anatomical knowledge to develop the Power of Touch Workshop. The aim of the couples-focused workshop is to foster a lifelong affinity for massage, letting participants both practice massage techniques and experience massage benefits at the hands of their partner. With a low student-to-teacher ratio, sessions promise adequate individual attention and an intimate environment in which to knead away knots and loosen spines. After the workshop, students not only come away with a deeper appreciation for massage and joints looser than a broken door handle, but they also receive lifetime access to Power of Touch’s alumni area, a network of massage resources that includes videos, articles, and additional workshops.
