The Great Escape: Treat Yourself to a Massage

Being a wonderful mom is a demanding job that offers little time for rest and relaxation. For many, it’s tough to squeeze in alone time – and even more difficult to fill that time with calming, re-energizing activities.

Kent Patch wants to help! Starting this week, “The Great Escape” will present moms with a great idea for how to spend that time. We’ll highlight a local event, place or service that can give you a much-deserved break from the kiddos!

Have a “great escape” secret you’re willing to share with our readers? Tell us about it by e-mailing the author above or posting it in the comments section at the end of this article.

This week, consider taking advantage of time away from the kids with a massage – right here in town! There are three Kent venues where licensed massotherapists give several types of massages in calming environments.

The at Kent State University offers relaxation massage, therapeutic massage, sports massage and deep-tissue massage in 15-, 30- and 60-minute sessions. And you don’t have to be a Kent State student to take advantage of the service.

For those who are not members of the facility, prices range from $30 for a 15-minute session to $69 for a full hour.

Ben Cope, fitness coordinator at the center, said massages are offered in a special room set apart from others in the facility. The atmosphere is designed to be relaxing, with dim lighting, soft music and waterfall sounds. Add-ons are available, including aromatherapy room misting for $1 more or hot stones for $17.

Cope said massages are an excellent way to reduce stress and tension, as well as promote relaxation.

Appointments, which are required, are available by calling 330-672-4732 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays.

Also providing massage services is , where licensed massotherapist Charlotte Turner offers flexible hours to accommodate clients.

“Charlotte is amazing. She makes you feel 100 percent better,” said stylist Lauren Begue.

She describes the salon’s massage room as quaint, featuring dim lighting and calming nature soundtracks.

Services such as restorative deep-tissue massage, “The Essential Massage” and mind-body release are available in half-hour ($30) and one-hour ($47) sessions. The salon’s website is currently offering a $5 off coupon for new massage clients.

Appointments are recommended at least one day in advance and can be made by calling 330-673-0877.

also offers a variety of massages. Details are available on the facility’s website.