When it comes to showing yourself some love, there’s no better way to spend a day relaxing at a spa or getting a massage. Luckily, there are plentiful choices near Oak Park, Illinois. Whether you’re looking to soothe your aching back, or simply relax, you’ve got more than enough options for a body massage near you. 

Swedish — A Swedish massage is what most people think of when it comes to massage. Swedish massage uses different types of long, flowing strokes to reduce pain, increase circulation and relax the body. If it’s your first time, this is often a great choice.

Deep tissue — A deep tissue massage is slightly more for function than relaxation  — although there’s no reason you can’t have both! This type of therapeutic massage uses moderate to firm pressure directly to areas of pain where adhesions have formed in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

Prenatal — Pregnancy can put all sorts of physical strains on the body, which is why prenatal massage is designed specially for expectant mothers. During a prenatal massage, the therapist will help to relieve aches in your back and neck, and address leg cramps. Prenatal massage can also improve circulation, help reduce nervous tension, and help relieve depression or anxiety. 

Hot stone — A hot stone massage can be a treatment all in itself, or an add-on to your massage choice. The therapist will use small, heated stones and strategically place them on certain parts of the body to relieve aches and pains. 

Sports massage — Sports massage is designed to help athletes maximize their performance and reduce injuries. Additionally, it is also used to help treat injuries when they occur. 

Thai massage —  Although it is called a massage, a Thai massage is different from most other massage types. Instead of a traditional massage where the muscles are rubbed, a Thai massage is more of a whole body stretch. During the massage, the therapist will manipulate your body in certain ways to improve flexibility and ease tension. 

In addition to massage, spas often offer some other therapies, including: 

Reflexology — Reflexology is a subtype of massage that involves applying different amounts of pressure to the feet, hands, and ears to promote healing and relaxation. It's based on a theory that these body parts are connected to certain organs and body systems. 

Acupuncture — Acupuncture is a type of alternative medicine that is a part of traditional Chinese medicine. During acupuncture, thin needles are inserted shallowly into the skin into specific points on the body that are said to promote healing and relaxation.  

One of the two major massage chains in the country, Massage Envy is a popular choice for many people looking for massage. In order to get a massage here, you must be a member. However, with a monthly membership, members will receive a credit each month for a massage. If you don’t use it, don’t worry! It will roll over to the next month. Although there are less bells and whistles than some higher-end day spas, many people prefer this route as an affordable way to keep their bodies feeling great. 

At Massage Therapy of Oak Park, they believe massage is a part of a natural healing process. Which is why they provide a relaxing environment for healing and their therapists are trained to listen to your needs, so you receive a massage that is tailored to you — each time. In addition to a variety of massage types, they also offer cranio-sacral therapy, which they describe as a gentle method of detection and correction that encourages your own natural healing mechanisms to dissipate the negative effects of stress on your central nervous system.

At Serenity Holistic Health, they focus on healing the whole you — mind, body and spirit. This is why they offer a variety of services, from nutrition counseling and psychotherapy to chiropractic medicine and massage. Their goal? To get you feeling better and promote overall well-being. If you’re looking for one of their incredible massages, you can try out a Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, hot stone massage, or prenatal massage, all using different massage techniques. You can also add on any of their incredible services to your day to show your body some extra love.

When it comes to a full-service spa, look no further than Salon 212 & Day Spa in Oak Park. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day to yourself — think tune-up massage or body treatment — or are finally getting time to book your hair appointment — maybe a blowout for a night out — Salon 212 has you covered for all of your needs. 

Similar to Massage Envy, Elements Massage is another chain massage company that offers affordable monthly massages to community members. They offer a month-to-month membership with no long-term contract, and monthly massages tailored to your unique needs. 

Among one of the most popular spots in the area is sure to be Brennan Massage and Spa. The spa exists inside a refinished classic-style home in Brookfield, giving it that personal feel. There, a team of professional, licensed massage therapists can provide a wide range of services — from massages to facials — to help you relax and unwind.

Located inside North Riverside Mall, Serenity Touch Massage is a great place to pop in if you need a quick relaxation session. They provide a variety of different services for you to choose from, including chair massage and foot massages. Different from a day spa experience, the space is open, with many of the chairs and tables in the same room. It’s a great option for a pop-in visit.

When it comes to massage, we often forget about one of the most important parts of the body  — the face. Massaging and stimulating the facial muscles can help improve skin, as well as relaxation. The technicians at Purity Spa in Willow springs offer every type of facial imaginable for the best possible skin care. Whether you’re just looking to relax, or have a specific goal in mind, they have something for everyone. 

Be sure and let us know which of these places ranks as your favorite to relax, unwind, and practice self-care.