C&S Bodywork MedSpa in Aiea

I'm always on the lookout for new spas on the west side, so I was happy to hear about the opening of C&S Bodywork MedSpa earlier this year. Located in the Aiea Shopping center, the medspa offers facials, massages, laser treatments, medical peels, injectables and more. They also offer discounts off packages of 3 or more as well as VIP memberships.

For Christmas, I gifted my daughter a 3 package session for laser hair removal. I was easily able to schedule all three sessions in advance. We arrived to her first appointment where she filled out new patient forms and then was taken to the treatment room where they applied the numbing cream. After about 15 minutes, the doctor came in to complete the treatment. The procedure was quick, pain free and the communication with the doctor was great. 

It was such a great experience, I made an appointment for a massage! For more information, visit their website.    

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Seven Senses Spa Review

Treatment Room

Hawaii Mom Blog was invited to visit Seven Senses Spa located in the Kahala office center for a complimentary massage to experience their spa.  Their spa concept is "beyond massage" where they offer an array of massage styles ranging from deep tissue, lomi lomi, shiatsu, and more.  

When you enter, you are immediately greeted by a wall of dark wooden planks inspired by hot springs in Japan and transported to a place of zen.  After I checked in, I was greeted by my therapist, Kim, and shown the room.  Kim discussed with me what I wanted worked on and any places to avoid.  During the massage she checked with me on the pressure, but it was already perfect.  For me, Kim combined deep tissue and lomi lomi and it was amazing. My neck and back gets sore from my office job and sometimes tight from hiking. I could really feel her working the areas where I needed it most and it felt like the tension was being rubbed away. I highly recommend booking with Kim, but it's great to know that Seven Senses Spa state all their therapists are extremely knowledgeable in therapeutic massage and have a passion for helping others.

This hall leads to zen.

Seven Senses Spa offers 60 minute, 75 minute, and 90 minute massages as well as package specials at very reasonable prices.  If you are in the market for an outstanding massage and you don't have a need for a relaxation room or sauna, then Seven Senses Spa is perfect for you.    

For more information, see their website.

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New in Waikiki: Star Beauty Room

On the recommendation of a trusted friend, I went to see Kiyoko at Star Beauty Room in Waikiki.  I am all about facials and massages and always willing to try a reputable spa.  Kiyoko is trained and licensed in Japan and Hawaii as an esthetician and massage therapist specializing in the newest forms of facial treatments and techniques from Japan.    

Her room is located inside of Aqua Nail on Seaside Avenue across from Ross'.  There is a private lot for the building and she validates parking.  When I arrived, I filled out a couple of forms and she asked me what kind of pressure I preferred for my massage.  I also picked out an aromatherapy oil at this time.  

The massage by Kiyoko exceeded my expectations!  The pressure she used was perfect.  To be honest, I was quite surprised how strong she is.  I also liked that she made sure to check with me how I liked the pressure.  She was discreet the entire time and I felt very comfortable.  I was trying very hard not to fall asleep even as she was working out the terrible knots I have - that's how relaxing it was.

I then flipped over for my one hour Brilliance Facial, which is a basic facial plus the use of microcurrent and LED light therapy.  The microcurrent took a little getting used to, but it's not painful nor does it require any down time.  Usually when I get extractions done, it's not a relaxing experience but Kiyoko uses a machine that suctions the impurities so it doesn't hurt one bit.  The facial was absolutely dreamy and felt wonderful.  My skin felt plump and hydrated and looked visibly improved.  I was truly impressed.

If you are looking for a new massage therapist or esthetician, I highly recommend Kiyoko!  Booking an appointment on her website was super easy and she's currently offering special prices so book soon!

Star Beauty Room

334 Seaside Ave. Suite 304A Aqua Nails

808-388-3576

starbeautyroomhawaii.com

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Take Care of Yourself at LAKA Skin Care and Spa

Most people see getting a massage as indulging or pampering oneself.  But the truth is massages can help improve your overall health.  Not only does massage therapy aid in stress relief, it also helps to reduce pain and facilitates recovery from injuries.  People get massages to increase relaxation which is especially helpful if you experience any anxiety.
 

As a working mom of two, I totally get anxious and stressed out while balancing work and life; trying to keep it fun, but real for my kids.  Throw in a ton of their extracurricular activities, homework and the occasional work overtime for me, the stress can take a toll and I can physically feel it in my neck, shoulders and back.

My favorite place to relax, recharge, and work on those tight spots is LAKA Skin Care and Spa.  Located on Ward in Kaka'ako, it is a hidden gem and one of Honolulu's best spas.  LAKA's vision is to motivate life-change through exceptional experiences and advanced education. The spa blends the best practices of the ancient and modern world with a fusion of the finest Asian and Western therapies.

LAKA's extensive menu of services includes body massages and treatments, facials, reflexology, and hydrogen scalp spa - for those looking to maintain a healthy scalp and head of hair.  The spa also offers spa packages, couples massages, and spa parties.
 

My experience at LAKA has always been exceptional and that is why I return time after time.  From reception to the massage itself, the staff is always friendly and professional and afterwards I enjoy my tray of treats including a most delicious black sesame ice cream.  The moment I enter the spa, I immediately feel relaxed and I let the calm ambience of the spa envelop me.  I take a deep breath, breathe it out, and am ready to embrace the LAKA mantra to "nourish, heal, and balance."

Getting spa comfy with the provided robe and slippers in the dressing room.

One of the treatment rooms.

Part of the relaxation lounge.

A private space to sit.

I always look forward to the hot tea and delicious black sesame ice cream.

Disclosure:  Complimentary massage was received.  Gratuity was paid on my own and all opinions are entirely my own. 

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The Shiatsu & Massage Center

Disclosure:  A complimentary massage gift certificate received during the Waikiki Beach Walk event was used.  All gratuities were paid on my own.  All opinions are entirely my own.   

Located on the second floor of Waikiki Beach Walk

Let's say you are staying in Waikiki; need a massage, but don't want to pay fancy spa prices? Then, visit the Shiatsu & Massage Center conveniently located on the second floor of Waikiki Beach Walk (near Ruth's Chris). 

Whether you need a quick fix or have time for a longer restorative massage, they offer massages in several time increments: 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 45 minutes, 1 hour, 75 minutes, 90 minutes, and 2 hours.  You can choose from varying styles of massage therapy like lomi lomi, shiatsu, reflexology, deep tissue and more.     

The massage rooms are not enclosed, but partitioned by drapes - so you may hear an occasional whisper.  My relaxation massage was with Tiffany and she was very professional and made sure the pressure was okay with me.  I'd definitely recommend Tiffany!  She did a wonderful job of getting the tension out of my back.

You can book on line at your own convenience and they have the best hours!  Open daily from 9:00 am to 11:00 pm.

Very relaxing atmosphere.

The Shiatsu & Massage Center

Waikiki Beach Walk 226 Lewers Street

808-922-0171

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Laka Skin Care and Spa

 

It's been a self-made birthday tradition of mine to have lunch with my family and then take off for a relaxing massage.  Not just any massage, but 90 minutes of pure bliss at Laka Skin Care and Spa.  I've been a fan of the spa, a hidden gem located on Ward, for three years now and it's in my top 3 spas that I recommend to anyone that asks.

Why celebrate with a massage?  Because it's the only true "me" time and you deserve some.  For the duration of your massage, the therapist will focus on just you and your needs.  I love spending time with my family on my birthday, but I also think it's important to treat myself to a little bit of relaxation without them too.  I'm pretty sure they agree when they are greeted with the version of me that is recharged and refreshed.

When you enter Laka Skin Care and Spa, you will be greeted and taken to a small changing room.  You can leave your valuables in a locker and hold the key with you.  Then you will be escorted to a waiting area with comfy oversized chairs to begin relaxing.  My massage therapist, Tiffany, arrived shortly to take me to the treatment room.  After we talked specifics about areas that were bothering me or any concerns I had, she left me to get settled on the massage table.  During the massage, she made sure to check with me how I liked the pressure.  I used to be too intimidated to speak up, but now I know that if I don't want to be disappointed, I better say something if I'm not happy.

Tiffany was awesome!  She delivered just the right amount of pressure and worked her magic over my tired back and body.  The peppermint aromatherapy oils were both soothing and rejuvenating.  I liked that she used hot towels on my hands and feet at the end so there was no oily residue.

After my amazing massage, I was led to their private dining table where I enjoyed water, peach tea, and their famous black sesame ice cream.  You too, will have to restrain yourself from asking for more ice cream.

Laka offers a variety of services and have both male and female massage therapists on staff.  Other spa services include facials, scalp care, and spa packages.  Guests will be happy to know that Laka offers a loyalty rewards program that give members special pricing. 

 

Service here is excellent and on point.  Life can get hectic and Laka strives to be the solution by providing their guests a healthy balance of body, mind and spirit.

    

One of their waiting rooms.

 

Where the relaxation begins.



Laka offers a variety of massages from deep tissue to prenatal.

 

Private dining area is perfect for spa day parties and showers.



The icing on the cake!  Delicious black sesame ice cream and peach tea to top a perfect spa day.
 

 

Thank you to Laka Skin Care and Spa for the complimentary birthday massage.  All gratuities were paid on my own.  All opinions are entirely my own. 

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Go See Chelsea North at Hawaii Wellness Spa + $15 off Your First Massage

I am no stranger to massages.  It's a great way to relax and recharge and get some real "me" time in your schedule.  If your muscles are tight, then you know the kind of relief a massage will provide.   But that's if you can find a good massage therapist.  Great massage therapists are hard to find.  Just because you pay big bucks at a resort doesn't mean all their therapists will be stellar so if you find someone you're a fan of, consider yourself lucky and keep track of them (in a non-stalkerish way, of course).

In my 15 years of getting massages, I've had some pretty bad experiences.  At my first massage, I was too intimidated to speak up so I endured 60 minutes of pressure that was too hard for me that resulted in bruises.  I've had a therapist squat over my back invading my comfort zone, I've had another that talked during the entire session, and I actually laughed out loud when an apprentice massage therapist vigorously scratched my head as she attempted to give me a scalp massage.

But those experiences have not deterred me from trying as many spas as I can.  I jumped at the opportunity to get a 30 minute signature combination massage with Chelsea North at the Hawaii Wellness Spa.  Chelsea is a licensed massage therapist and works with a combination of Deep Tissue, Sports/Injury, Hot Stone and Structural Integration techniques.  She also has training in Lomi Lomi, Fibromyagia Massage and Cranial Sacral Therapy.

In the beginning of the massage, she kept the talking to a minimum only checking to see if the pressure was to my liking.  She used a combination of techniques specifically for me.  I never thought I would like hot stones during a massage until she used them.  I was really missing out!  It was such a wonderful massage.  I loved the calming music and the lavender aroma therapy soothed my senses while Chelsea worked the knots out in my back.  I felt amazing afterwards and still do today.

If you are in need of a massage, I highly recommend Chelsea North.  You can find her at Hawaii Wellness Spa, conveniently located at 1221 Kapiolani Blvd in the same building as The Original Pancake House and Gyu-Kaku.  The easiest way to get to the spa in suite 415 is to take the parking garage elevator to the ground floor, walk through the entrance of the office building, and take the office elevators to the 4th floor.  Trust me on this.  There is validated parking for 3rd floor or higher in the parking structure.

Chelsea has graciously offered our Hawaii Mom Blog readers a fabulous deal!  Take $15 off your first massage of 60 minutes or more when you use promo code HIMOM15 and book online!  She is available for appointments Tuesday through Saturday 10:00am to 6:00pm.   

You'll be greeted in this pretty reception room.

Sauna services are available at the spa. 

The couples' massage room.

Thai massage room.

Reflexology massage room.

Thank you to Chelsea North for the complimentary 30 minute massage.  All opinions are entirely my own.    

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Visit Portland: Zama Massage Therapeutic Spa

On our last day of our 3 day trip to Portland, my friend and I began to run out of things we wanted to do, as we are not really outdoorsy kind of people.  I suggested we get massages so I did a quick Yelp search and found the Dragontree spa.  They didn't have any openings on such short notice so they recommended Zama.

I quickly called Zama and luckily they booked us for a wax and 2 Swedish massages.  Yay!  

Zama Massage is located in a two story house with parking in the back.  Our car was the only one in the parking lot and my friend got a little skeptical.  But her worries quickly disappeared with the comings and goings of the numerous relaxed and satisfied customers on a Sunday afternoon. 

The waiting room was comfortable as we enjoyed complimentary tea and water and used their wifi.  The only disappointment came when my friend went in for her wax appointment; the esthetician discovered she didn't have enough wax.  She offered my friend a glass of champagne instead, which she shared with me.  Cheers!

Our massages were fantastic.  Mine was in the Ruby Room which was dimly lit and visually soothing.  My experience was great and I highly recommend getting a massage on the last day of all your trips.   

Check out their website for daily specials: http://www.zamamassage.com/

Zama Massage Therapeutic Spa

2149 NE Broadway St
Portland, OR 97232

(503) 281-0278

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