A while back, I was invited to try a professional massage right in my own home. The idea of deep relaxation without stepping out sounded ideal. This week, it happened, and I'm sharing my firsthand experience with a certified masseuse.
First, I'll admit it felt a bit novel. All you need is a 3x3 meter space and some warmth. Our spacious home didn't have an obvious spot. The living room or kitchen? Not ideal with neighbors renovating and the fence down. Upstairs bedrooms were cluttered, and Lotte's newly renovated room lacked heating—chilly feet aren't relaxing.
Eventually, I settled on the office. Ample space between the desk and storage, not the coziest, but with eyes closed, it worked. Bonus: I can still catch the scent of the premium oil used as I write this.
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If you've never had a massage and wonder why bother, let me assure you: it's transformative. After each session, I vow to do it more often. For newcomers, it might take adjustment, but it's a true self-care gift. Beyond pure bliss and a break from daily chaos, massages offer proven health benefits:
Regular massages should be a staple for everyone.
Read also: how do i become zen, 5 tips
Why not? Here are compelling reasons for choosing an at-home massage.
A massage elsewhere is great, but skipping the commute is unbeatable for me. I enjoyed tea with the masseuse before and after, though it's optional. Past massages paired with saunas were lovely but distinct. Typically, I opt for 30 minutes; this was a luxurious 60.
Finding a skilled professional who visits? Try Masseuseaanhuis.nl. Sharon Pol treated me to a blend of relaxation and sports massage—ideal for loosening my back and neck after 20+ years at a PC six days a week.
Sports massages deliver real results: relaxation plus muscle relief. It's not painless unknotting tense spots, but experts like Sharon gauge pressure perfectly.
Founded by Mirjam van Starrenburg, Masseuseaanhuis.nl showcases vetted professionals. Search by Dutch province on the interactive map to view profiles, services, hours, pricing, and reviews—perfect for informed choices. Chemistry matters; if it's not right, try another.
Read also: Help! I have to learn to relax again
Choose your oil pre-session—personal scent preference elevates the experience. Masseuse at home uses 100% natural oils, handmade per family recipes from Massagehuys, free of synthetics.
From three options, Tiger Power Oil won me over—a gentle tiger balm vibe with an invigorating scent. Lavender's Huile d'Avignon surprisingly didn't appeal, despite my love for it.
60-minute sessions range €55-€65, matching salon rates. Travel/parking costs aren't passed to you—fair pricing.
Next time, I'll optimize for deeper zen: a cozier room, evening timing for post-massage unwind (sans work), and soothing music over radio. My husband Frank's keen too—we'll book couples' evenings in the living room, curtains drawn. Challenge: Keeping our teen son's TV/Skype noise upstairs.
Image used via Shutterstock
