I had a great experience at Better Massage in Westlake Center, and it looks like it might have recently opened so I wanted to leave a review. There were two massage therapists already working on customers when I walked in (without an appointment), but there was a couch to take a seat, and I was offered a bottle of water while I waited. The service was kind and attentive, and the therapist asked right away if the pressure was okay. When I asked for even harder/stronger pressure, they made sure I was getting what I needed. The pressure was perfect after I expressed my preference and such a relief for the tension in my back and feet.

While on the table, I overhead another customer getting a foot massage that was being kind of rude. It sounded like she wanted more of a very light foot rub than a massage. She had trouble communicating that and ended the massage early. I think she eventually came back, but the whole interaction made me sad and frustrated because I don’t think you can blame Chinese therapeutic massage (tui na) therapists for doing Chinese therapeutic massage. This is a specific technique they are trained in and is meant to release the underlying fascia. (Not to mention it’s much harder work physically and requires more specialized skills than a light Swedish relaxation massage.) Targeting acupressure points, triggering myofascial release, scraping (like gua sha), and using sustained pressure to work across muscles and connective tissue might be uncomfortable at times, but it’s much more effective at improving physical mobility and unblocking restricted Qi energy flow. I wish more people understood the healing nature of this modality, because there are plenty of other places where you can get a half-hearted, lackluster massage that just tickles your skin’s surface (usually at a higher price).

While the therapists are definitely eager to adjust to your preferences, I also hope customers would be kind in their tone and delivery of feedback. My own experience showed that they welcome the feedback and aim to please.

I’m from out of town, but look forward to returning and wish them much success in this location. This is such a nice, peaceful spot in downtown Seattle and perfect for tourists who have been walking all day.

This place is amazing an therapeutic they know where all the triggers and tension is at and know how to release it in the best way possible :) Thanks Better Massage!