Parenting is amazing, fun, unimaginable and the ultimate learning experience. The same can be said of pregnancy, plus a whole new crazy set of challenges for your body. Whether it’s your first or third baby, it’s the most important time to take care of you. That’s why we’ve rounded up a few of the best spots for prenatal massage in the city. Relax and enjoy; once baby arrives you won’t get as much time for pampering!
photo: Berlin, LLC
Berlin Wellness Group
This location can meet lots of your pregnancy needs; it’s preggers one-stop-shopping! Dr. Berlin and his highly trained staff specialize in therapeutic prenatal massage (complete with a special massage table that accommodates your growing baby bump) and chiropractic work. Beyond massage for easing stiffness or aches, the Berlin Wellness Group also specializes in massage and adjustments that can help “flip” a baby that has not eased into a head-down position as their birthday approaches. BWG also offers healing through acupuncture and Chinese herb treatments. There is a little something for everyone here: You and your partner can sign up for workshops and/or counseling sessions to help you prepare for child birth and parenting. There are also a host of post-natal services to guide your body on the road to recovery as you head into super-mama mode.
BWG has three locations in mid-city (near LACMA), Silverlake/Atwater Village (inside the Dtox Day Spa) and Santa Monica. Check the website for specifics on each spa.
323-549-0070
Online: doctorberlin.com
photo: The Raven Spa
The Raven Spa
Step into the Raven Spa and you will be transported for a blissful time. The Raven has two locations in Silverlake and Santa Monica and each is decorated with eclectic pieces of furniture, chandeliers hanging from high ceilings, natural light and beautiful colors that entice the senses without becoming overwhelming. The Raven specializes in a variety of massage techniques like Thai, Deep Tissue and of course prenatal that will help target those trouble areas that can come up during pregnancy. While you’re there you can also treat yourself to one of their facial, acupuncture, reiki or waxing services (because who can reach their lower half for shaving in the third trimester?). Plus, their Silverlake location houses a yoga studio. Pre-massage yoga may be just the ticket.
Good to Know: The Raven will not perform first trimester pregnancy massages. But they do recommend acupuncture or Reiki treatments during that period.
Locations in Silverlake and Santa Monica, check the website for details.
Online: theravenspa.com
photo: Tao of Venus Wellness Center
Tao of Venus Wellness Center
Tao of Venus in Silverlake is a wonderful wellness spot that specializes in pregnancy and fertility services. The space is simply decorated with lots of natural light streaming into the lobby where you can browse their supply of wellness products, aromatherapy oils and incense (just to name a few). Their massage therapists have a great understanding of the rapidly changing body during pregnancy. Beyond massage, acupuncture is also available to help you ease through any aches and pains so that you can enjoy this special time. TOV also offers skin care and reiki along with a host of other services.
Good to Know: Parking can be a little tough but certainly not impossible. Metered parking is available right in front on the streets and there is also free parking available on Silverlake Blvd. and Westerley off of Sunset Blvd. Give yourself a few extra minutes—it’s well worth it, and you don’t want to arrive for your stress-reducing massage in a parking-induced panic.
3037 W. Sunset Blvd.
Silverlake
323-660-1200
Online: taoofvenus.com
photo: Pregnancy/Therapeutic Massage by Liz
Pregnancy/Therapeutic Massage by Liz
If you want a low-key experience with all of the amazing benefits of a knowledgeable massage therapist Pregnancy Massage by Liz is the ticket. Liz works from her home in Santa Monica, has been honing her craft of bodywork for nearly 20 years, and it shows. Before your session, Liz will talk through your specific needs and customize your experience to target those trouble spots and help prepare the body for the big event to come. Liz is known for going over her allotted time limit until your individual issues have been addressed, so be prepared for serious pampering.
310-463-7691
photo: Larchmont Sanctuary Spa
Larchmont Sanctuary Spa
In the heart of Larchmont Village is an unexpected escape. Step inside and way from the bustle of the street as you sit down in a fireplace warmed lounge. The spa’s massage therapists specialize in the needs of the pregnant body and work to help relieve issues like leg cramps and sciatic pain that tend to come up, especially late in pregnancy. Beyond massage the spa also offers great facials, waxing and acupuncture services. And while you’re on Larchmont, you can peruse pretty cute kid clothes at Flicka and Bluebird for your coming babe, and then finish by treating yourself to a delicious and healthy meal at Café Gratitude.
Bonus: If you can’t skip town you can turn this spa day into a mini-babymoon with your partner. Larchmont Sanctuary offers a variety of couples packages some of which include a champagne bath for two! Okay, sparkling cider for you, but exciting, romantic and festive nevertheless.
331 N. Larchmont Blvd.
Mid-City
323-466-1028
Online: larchmontsanctuary.com
Do you have a favorite pregnancy indulgence (from massage to treats to alone time retreats)? We’d love to hear how you take care of you, when expecting.
—LeTania Kirkland
