Cortiva Massage Institute (formerly Chicago School of Massage Therapy)

Cortiva’s massage clinic is one of my favorite places to go for a little R&R. Not only do they offer professional massages for affordable prices, they also offer student massages for discounted prices (about $40 for one hour). The clinic is split in half, professional and student.

If you’re looking for more specific work, such as deep tissue, Reflexology, pregnancy massage or lymphatic drainage, I recommend booking an appointment with a professional at the clinic.

If you’re local to Chicago, check the Red Eye for 10% off coupons. Often times when the clinic is slow, they will offer student (and sometimes professional) massage for $10 cheaper than usual.

Students

The students have completed approximately 50 hours of hands-on training by the time they enter the clinic. They have all been trained in Swedish relaxation massage. As they continue their education, their skills progress and they learn new techniques as well as modalities of massage.

Lincoln Park's best kept secret!

You've booked an appointment, now what?

Prior to your massage, make a mental note (or write it down if you have the memory of a 90-year-old like me!) of what areas are causing you the most pain. Think about how you carry yourself when you walk. Did you pull a muscle trying out a new position with your boyfriend? Too much Wii Fit hula hoop? Carrying everything, including the kitchen sink, in your shoulder bag?

This information will be helpful to your therapist because they will know which areas to focus on, as well as help them give you some self care tips to do at home.

What to wear?

When going to a massage appointment, the more comfortably dressed you are, the better! Since oils and lotions are used, it would be a shame to get any of that on your nice clothes post-massage! Tie your hair back and remember to remove your jewelery. It’s perfectly normal to keep your underwear on, just make sure it’s not laundry day!

Need fluids?

Luckily there’s a Jamba Juice nearby! It’s more exciting than water and let’s face it, anything that colorful and fresh is worth the $4. You did just save a lot of money on your massage! You’re worth it :)

Make an evening out of it!

Don’t let the relaxation end there! The Body Shop is one of my most frequented places to pick up relaxation products. My personal favorites are their Deep Sleep and Divine Calm collections. Their products are pretty much porn for your nose.