A few years ago, I began searching for a massage therapist that I could visit regularly to help combat chronic headaches, migraines, and shoulder tension. A friend recommended I try Cathy Thomas at Savannah Healing Arts and I haven’t gone anywhere else since. Whether you’re a local looking for a regular therapist or visiting from out of town, Cathy is sure to give you the best massage in Savannah.
About Cathy Thomas and Savannah Healing Arts
Finding a long-term massage therapist is a personal journey. It needs to be someone you jive with. You’re going to be at your most vulnerable in front of them. (Specifically, lying naked, facedown on a table in a dark room with nothing but a sheet between you.) You have to trust them! Like a hairstylist, you can’t go to just anyone. Cathy Thomas, the founder of Savannah Healing Arts, is warm and inviting the moment you meet her. To me, she feels like the intrinsically cool, free-spirited big-sister-like persona that goes out of her way to be kind to everyone but also takes no sh*t. She’s funny and gives off that “I feel like I’ve known you forever” vibe. It is no surprise that Cathy received the title of Best Massage Therapist by readers of Savannah Magazine for the Best of Savannah in 2019 and 2020.
What I like most about my appointments with Cathy is her approach to each massage. She always asks how I’m feeling or if there is anything I’d like to focus on. Then, she gets to work. Compared to every other massage that I’ve had, the best way I can describe Cathy’s technique is intuitive. I am sure there is a method to what she does, but I can also tell that she caters to what she feels through her hands; hands that hold many years of experience and aren’t simply going through the motions. Somehow, she finds my particular spots of annoyance every time.
I’ve been to massage therapists in the past where each massage consisted of the same, predictable routine. A routine that was probably used on every other customer that day. Our bodies are unique and individual. They have different sources of inflammation and irritation. Cathy always gives special attention to my personal gripes and ailments. If I mention that I’m stressed or anxious, she might break out one of her many essential oils for my specific ailments. Headache? Peppermint. Election anxiety? A patchouli blend for grounding.
Atmosphere
The Savannah Healing Arts studio is located at 104 East 40th Street. Cathy has spent a great deal of time curating a space that is tranquil and relaxing, but also earthy and hip. This is not your bougie hotel-spa experience. It is far more personal. Natural stones, shells, and crystals fill Cathy’s studio. The cozy, den-like ambiance is amplified by the glow of a Himalayan salt lamp. Essential oils scent the air. A wardrobe that looks suspiciously like Narnia might be hiding behind its doors rests in the corner. Music (often classical piano) plays softly. Christmas lights strung from the rafters happily twinkle above the massage table. I dare you to try not to relax.
How to Have a Great Massage Experience According to a Massage Therapist
I asked Cathy to give me a few pointers from her years of experience that I could share with my readers, and she was kind enough to oblige!
1. Communicate
“Communication, and I don’t mean talking during the entire massage! It’s making sure you explain your issues and concerns with the therapist and letting the therapist know if something is uncomfortable during the session. (i.e., if the pressure of your massage is too deep or not deep enough, if the temperature in the room is not to your liking, etc.)”
2. Be Consistent
“Understand that consistency is the key to achieving your wellness goals. One massage is not going to fix your problem(s). As with anything, routine keeps aches and pains at bay, helps keep your body functioning at top performance, and assists in keeping your mind and body healthy.”
3. Unplug
“Turn off your phone, unplug, breathe, and go with the flow whether you are wanting to relax, or if you have specific issues that need some serious working out.”
Whether you’re local or planning your trip to Savannah, give Cathy and her team at Savannah Healing Arts a try. I’ve never referred anyone to Cathy who didn’t come back absolutely raving about their experience. Cathy’s professional experience includes: Swedish, deep tissue, and sports massage, Integrative Stretching, myofascial release, cupping, trigger point therapy, reflexology, prenatal massage, Lomi Lomi, hot stone massage, and aromatherapy. Additionally, she is a trained Reiki Master. She is sure to give you the best massage in Savannah.
To learn more about Cathy’s services, visit her website at http://www.massagebycathy.us/.
[…] A gift to myself, I decided to treat myself to a visit to Savannah Healing Arts. Cathy provided me with a fantastic massage as always. It was so nice to catch up with her. If you’re in Savannah looking for a massage, I can’t recommend Cathy enough. She gives the best massage in Savannah. […]