South China Morning Post, October 2005

TRIAL THERAPY

by Suzanne Harrison

SUTHERLAND-CHAN CENTRE

What is it?
A new massage centre run by a Canadian group that says it’s committed to creating healthier lifestyles. The therapists are trained for two years (during which they do pre-medical school anatomy) and registered with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario. The atmosphere is more modern medical than spa-like.

Why go there?
If you’re looking for more than a scented rub, this could be the place for you. People with back or neck pain, athletes with injuries or tight muscles, and those seeking the release of muscle tension and or mental anxiety are likely to be interested.

What was it like?
The massage rooms don’t have wafting music and candles. This is a centre where massage is taken seriously. It’s clear the therapist’s have an avid interest in the human body and the practice of massage. My therapist’s knowledge is evident after a quick postural assessment reveals areas for improvement in my stance and posture. Sher asks whether I’d like the full body or targeted areas and I choose to concentrate on my lower back and neck. The massage is a generous 75 minutes. At times, the intensity of the pressure hurt a bit, but the therapist was intent on releasing tight muscles to lengthen areas that had shortened due to sitting at an office desk all day. More than an hour of this deep-tissue massage relieved my sore lower back. Getting such massages regularly is said to improve the immune system and increase mental alertness.

What was good about it?
The way the therapist clearly enjoyed her work and took an interest in ensuring the pressure was just right and that her goal of relieving pain or tension was achieved. The centre says the technique is Swedish massage combined with its specialist anatomical knowledge. The soft massage table is wide and long, and rolled towels and pillows are placed under your back and feet at various times.

What wasn’t so good about it?
You have to be prepared for some deep-tissue pain when the therapist unknots the tight areas, but if you have health or pain problems, this may be a good way to resolve them.

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