This web site was created to help people learn more about massage therapy, explain some of the spa treatments that are now available, and assist them in finding a qualified Massage Therapist within the greater Houston metropolitan area.

New clients can see the treatments we offer and read through the frequently asked questions (FAQ) to learn more about massage therapy. Please let us know if you
have any other questions after reading through the information available here.


Howard DeCastro, LMT
Owner of Village Massage

    Phone:   713-520-9591

    E-mail:  HDmassage@hotmail.com

Village Massage 2635 Greenbriar Houston, Texas 77098 713-520-9591 Located between Westheimer and Alabama on Greenbriar Drive (North of Hwy 59 - between the Gallaria and downtown Houston) Appointment Hours 9:00am - 8:00pm         Monday - Friday 10:00am - 7:00pm     Saturday & Sunday Other times may be available upon request.

Massage Styles Relaxation Massage While most massages are relaxing in one way or another, a specific request for a Relaxation Massage often means that the client wants a very light touch during their treatment. Relaxation massage is a soft and gentle style that some people prefer over the deeper pressure that is found in other types of massage therapy. The delicate and soothing strokes are combined with massage oil to create a sense of peaceful tranquility. This can calm someone down after a long stressful day and may even cause them to fall asleep. This style is sometimes called a "Gentle Touch" massage. Relaxation massage techniques can also be combined with Swedish and Integrative massage to vary your experience and create the perfect balance between soft and medium pressure. Finding the right combination to suit your needs is the key to achieving the best massage possible. Swedish Massage Swedish massage is one of the most traditional forms of massage therapy in western culture. This style involves medium and firm pressure in a variety of different strokes. Most massage therapists trained in Texas were taught this style and it will be familiar to anyone that has been to a few different day spas or wellness centers in Houston. It is commonly used to improve a client's general health and overall well-being. The techniques used during a Swedish Massage were originally developed by a Swedish doctor named Per Henrik Ling in the 1700's. However, many of the words that are used to describe this style are actually French because that was the most widely used language in Europe at the time: Effleurage - smooth flowing strokes across the surface Petrissage - kneading, squeezing, or rolling muscles Tapotement - tapping, hacking, cupping or pounding Vibration - rapid shaking that increases circulation Friction - rubbing the skin in opposite directions Swedish massage has been known to positively affect the muscles, nerves, glands, circulation, and lymphatic system. This style not only relieves muscle tension, but you will usually feel both relaxed and energized after your massage. Integrative Massage "That was the best massage I've ever had." This is often the response the first time someone experiences this unique massage technique. Unlike some styles that break the body up into small parts that are massaged, covered back up, and never touched again, Integrative Massage is a treatment that involves long fluid strokes that move from one part of your body to another, connecting each area in a smooth flowing manner. One stroke may start at your shoulders, move across your back, down your legs, calves, feet, and then slowly return towards your back again. Many people find this to be an exquisite treatment much like a massage they once experienced in an exotic beach front retreat in a distant part of the world. This style can be combined with Swedish and relaxation massage to envelop and treat your entire being. Please note that your body will be uncovered more and more as the massage goes along. At some point, only the bikini area remains under a sheet or towel. If there are specific areas you would like to keep covered, please talk with the massage therapist before your session to determine your personal level of comfort. Sports Massage People who request this style usually want a massage that focuses specifically on the muscles they use during physical activities such as running, biking, tennis or golf. This treatment often involves a variety of stretches and a combination of different techniques for the muscle groups that are most effected by their particular sport. These sessions are usually either 1 hour or 90 minutes long. However, there is another type of Sports Massage that is done on location at serious competitive sporting events. It is typically used as a warm up just before, between, or right after the athletic events. This massage involves vigorous shaking, vibration, compression and other similar techniques for approximately 10 to 15 minutes of intense concentrated work. It is used to prepare an athlete for peak performance, prevent injuries, and improve recovery time. Either style of Sports Massage will help relieve swelling, reduce muscle tension, promote flexibility, and positively effect muscle fatigue. Neuromuscular treatments such as massage therapy have also been credited with assisting athletes in preventing injuries and accelerating their recovery time. Anyone who engages in a fairly active lifestyle can benefit from a Sports Massage now and then. Deep Tissue Massage Deep Tissue incorporates specific techniques to effectively relieve all layers of muscle affected by injury, chronic pain, and tension built up over long periods of time. This style of massage uses deep muscle compression and friction along the grain of the muscle. The purpose is to unstick the muscle fibers, release toxins and remove deeply held patterns of tension. Deep Tissue massage is recommended for clients who prefer treatment centered therapy. Couples Massage Getting a massage with someone you know is a wonderful experience. You can have a massage in the same room at the same time (2 tables and 2 massage therapists) or enjoy a training session where each person learns to give the other a massage (1 table and 1 massage therapist). Both of these styles are a nice way to ease into things for anyone that is feeling a little unsure about getting a massage. Having a friend in the room can help overcome any nervous feelings or concerns a person may have. The best approach is to have one person lying on the table while the massage therapist is teaching the other person how to give a massage.  Imagine having 4 different hands on your body at once...  it can be absolutely amazing. Then you switch places so that each of you gets a massage while the other one is practicing. Have you ever wanted to learn how to give someone a massage? Discover how to rub each other the right way. There are also some day spas and massage offices that have rooms large enough for two massage tables and you can both schedule your regular massage in the same room. This is an excellent way for a couple to enjoy some time together while getting totally pampered. Prenatal Massage Prenatal Massage offers expectant mothers gentle massage to reduce stress, anxiety and many of the physical discomforts experienced during pregnancy. Pregnancy places strong demands on a woman's body and is a time for the body to be nurtured and pampered. Prenatal massage not only relieves the tensions and aches caused by the extra weight and shift in the center of gravity to the body, but it also reduces swelling, soothes the nervous system, acts as a tonic, reduces fatigue and enhances energy. Spa Treatments Hot Stones Hot stone massage allows you to experience the incredible relaxation achieved with an exotic spa treatment that comes directly from the Pacific Islands. During your normal massage, the massage therapist uses a combination of oils and heated stones to massage your back, arms, legs & feet. These soothing ancient stones are a mixture of polished basalt lava and time worn river rocks. Words cannot fully explain the effect this has on your body. This treatment has to be personally experienced to truly understand how amazing it feels. Aromatherapy Aromatherapy has been used for centuries to reduce stress and tension, refresh and invigorate the body, soothe emotions, and clear the mind. When aromatherapy is combined with a relaxing or invigorating massage, the benefits are often intensified. This treatment will enchant your senses with the fragrance of essential oils including the following:       - Lavender for relaxation.       - Peppermint for increased energy.       - Various blends for combined effects. Exfoliation Exfoliation is a spa treatment which combines a tantalizing mixture of massage oils and exfoliating gloves worn by the massage therapist during the massage. Complimenting your massage with an exfoliation treatment will leave your skin soft, purified and rejuvenated. Body Brushing Body brushing involves the scrubbing of your entire body with "boor brushes" specially designed for skin care. This spa treatment is a form of exfoliation that is excellent for your skin. The application is in either a vigorous or gentle fashion depending upon your personal preferences. This can be done during your massage or also as a stand alone treatment. Water Pillows These are huge soft packs that are filled with hot water. They are usually placed under a sheet or towel and positioned where you want them on the massage table. When you lay down on the table, they support part of your body during the massage. They are used for general relaxation, stress relief or to treat muscular tension. Water pillows create a soft flowing sensation similar to a waterbed and the heat is very soothing (tepid or cold water is also available). People often choose one for their lower back, while others will select two or three of them for various parts of their body. Some people will even request several water pillows to cover the whole length of the massage table. This creates a floating sensation for the entire body that is simply amazing. Herbal Wrap An herbal wrap allows you to enjoy a soothing blend of oils and organic herbs in a warm cocoon which relaxes muscles, releases toxins and improve skin tone & elasticity. The massage therapist will prepare a table with heat packs and layers of sheets and blankets. Then you will be wrapped in warm moist towels seeped in an herbal blend before you lay down on the table and are wrapped in warm blankets so you can quietly relax while listening to soft music. During your relaxation time, you may also choose to include a facial massage, a foot massage, or other spa treatments.

Rates Massage Therapy Swedish, Relaxation & Integrative Massage 30 minutes ................................... $40 1 Hour ........................................... $70 90 minutes .................................. $100 2 hours ........................................ $140 Additional Massage Styles: Sports Massage   (stretches)   + $5 Deep Tissue   (hard pressure)   + $10 Prenatal   (Body Support System)   + $5 Couples Massage (same room)   + $5 Chair Massage 10 minutes  -  $ 15 15 minutes  -  $ 20 20 minutes  -  $ 25 House Calls $120 for the first hour $80 each additional hour Enhance your massage by adding spa treatments. Exfoliation  +  $5 Hot Towels  +  $5 Hot Stones  +  $10 Aromatherapy  +  $10 Body Brushing  +  $10 Water Pillow  +  $10 Other spa treatments such as Sunless Tanning, Salt Glow, or an Herbal Wrap may be available upon request. Discounts Package Discount Purchase 3 massages   -   Save 5% Purchase 6 massages  -  Save 10% Purchase 10 or more    -  Save 15% Frequent Client Discount Once a week or more  -  Save $10 per massage New Client Discount If it is your first time with Village Massage, you can request 90 minutes of a wonderfully soothing relaxation massage for only $80. or Save 10% off any massage style, spa treatments, and products you purchase on your first appointment. Note:   Your massage must be a minimum of 1 hour for any discounts to take effect. Discounts and specials cannot be combined. Current Specials Spa Day Hot Stone Massage combined with Aromatherapy, Exfoliation & Hot Towels. $120 for 90 minutes. Couples Massage 2 massage tables, 2 massage therapists and the two of you.    $150 per hour   ($75 each) or Get a massage while learning to massage one another.   $100 per hour. Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy With less than 24 hours notice, there is a $10 rescheduling fee or a $30 cancellation fee. Missed appointments are billed at full price. If you need to reschedule your appointment, please call us as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Who really needs a massage? Anyone who is interested in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, experiencing new methods of relaxation or alleviating the stress, aches and pains that are a part of everyday life. The benefits of therapeutic massage are widely recognized. Professional massage improves your health and well being by releasing muscle tension, improving circulation, reducing the effects of stress, and can even alleviate pain. Massage therapy is often used to compliment chiropractic treatments, speed recovery from injuries, help problems associated with postural dysfunction, and in conjunction with activities such as yoga, pilates and weight training. Which massage style is right for me? A brief consultation will help determine the type of massage therapy required to meet your particular needs. Whether you prefer one specific style of massage or a combination of different treatments, personalizing each session is an important part of attaining the best massage possible. You can choose to relax with a basic Swedish massage or try a more invigorating experience like an exfoliation spa treatment. Some people prefer a much more specific focus such as Deep Tissue massage. One day you may find that you will want to experiment with a new massage style or spa treatment, while another day you will simply select your favorites and enjoy. How often should I get a massage? When it comes to things like massage therapy, more is generally better. Most people would get a massage every day if they could. However, it is important to find a routine that fits your schedule, budget, and current situation. Some people come in once a week, while others wait a month or more before treating themselves again. This all depends upon the ever changing circumstances of our lives and what you want and need right now. People who want to feel a significant difference in their body should schedule two or three massages every week for three weeks. After five or six massages in a short period of time, you will feel the full impact of all the treatments. If your massage is simply for stress relief and relaxation, we recommend that you get a massage about once a month. Pick the days when you normally have a lot of stress and schedule your appointment around that time. If you have something that requires more attention such as back pain, tight muscles, or significant levels of stress, it is a good idea to get a massage once a week. How much time should I schedule for my massage? Most people request at least one hour for a standard session. Occasionally a client will ask for a specific time such as a twenty minute chair massage or a two hour spa package, depending on their particular needs and preferences. It is recommended that you schedule at least 90 minutes for your first massage. This allows a little extra time for any questions you may have, any necessary discussions about your health history, and an explanation of different types of massage techniques. Having more time also gives you the opportunity to experience a variety of massage styles. From there, we can develop a treatment plan to best suit your specific needs. What is a massage usually like? During one massage, you may want to simply relax and drift away while in another session you may prefer to focus on tight areas, sore muscles or even a recent injury. Each session will incorporate the styles of massage and spa treatments that you want to experience. Whether in an office or during a house call, your massage should be in a comfortable setting. The focus of the massage and the atmosphere is catered to your preferences. A variety of oils, lotions, and musical selections are usually available to choose from. Candles, relaxing music and a soothing waterfall are often used to provide an oasis of blissful relaxation and healing. Before the massage begins, there is normally a bit of paperwork to fill out concerning your health history and personal preferences. You should then take some time to talk about any specific aches, pains, or tight muscles you may have. This is also a good time to mention any questions, concerns, or specific requests to your massage therapist. After a brief consultation, your massage will be tailored to address your specific needs. You will then be left alone to undress to your level of comfort, get on the massage table, and lay down under a large sheet or towel to cover your body until the massage begins. When you are ready, the massage therapist will come back into the room after washing his hands and taking care of any extras like turning on a heater, setting up a spa treatment, or getting a special kind of massage oil you requested. The massage will often begin with you lying on your stomach because many people have tight muscles in their neck and back. This means your face will probably be in a cushioned cradle at the end of the massage table. This may take a little while to get used to, but many people find it very relaxing and it is important for allowing access to your neck and shoulder muscles. You may choose to lay on your back or side if you prefer to start in a specific position. This may be mandatory if you have a special need such as an injury or if you are a woman near the end of her pregnancy. The massage usually begins on an area that you have mentioned or simply defaults to the back and shoulders since these are commonly tight and often cause pain or discomfort. Each area that the massage therapist works on will be uncovered while oil and pressure are applied to your body. Some people prefer to have any areas that are not being worked on recovered with the sheet or towel. Other people prefer to have their body uncovered a little more with each area that is worked on so that the massage strokes can be connected rather than broken up into smaller parts. You should discuss this with your massage therapist before you begin so you are clear about which style you prefer. This is especially important for anyone that does not want to have a specific area of their body uncovered (stomach, breasts, or buttocks) and if there are any areas of the body that should not receive contact (ticklish feet, the face, etc.) Approximately halfway through your massage, you will be recovered with the sheet or towel and asked to turn over. The massage will then continue with the rest of your body until the end of the session. Some massage therapists will include subtle stretches, rocking, tapping, or various other techniques for treating muscular tension. If there is anything that you do not like or feels a little uncomfortable, be sure to mention it right away. The massage therapist will adjust the pressure or style to accommodate your preferences. After the massage, you will be left alone to relax for a few minutes before getting up, wiping off any excess oil, and putting your clothes on. You will then pay the massage therapist, drink some water, and talk about your next session. Be sure to mention the things that you liked the most and anything that you did not like. This will help make each session a little better than the last one. Please note that it often takes at least 5 massages completed within just a few weeks before your body feels the full effect of the treatments. Should I bring anything with me to my massage? All of the basic items needed for a massage are already provided at the spa or massage office. However, some people like to bring their own music, scented candles, or special massage oil they found in a local store that they want to try. Another person may want to test out a massage tool such as a portable back massager that they recently bought before deciding to keep it or not. Since it is your massage session, you should feel free to bring anything you like. Just mention the items to the massage therapist and talk about why you brought them. Most massage therapists will be absolutely thrilled to have some new music to listen to or a new massage tool to work with. As long as your request isn't too unusual, there should be no problem working it into your massage. What should I wear? Wear whatever makes you comfortable. Since there is no reason to put on make-up or get dressed up before a massage, it is recommended that you keep it simple with fairly casual clothing. Some people like to wear a t-shirt, jeans, shorts or other similar types of clothes that would not be ruined if a little massage oil got on them. And please leave any jewelry or other accessories at home, in your car, or put them in a purse or pants pocket during your massage. This makes it less likely that such items will be left behind. Should I wear anything during the massage? It is totally up to you. Some people take off all their clothes before lying down under a sheet or towel on the massage table. Other people wear something that covers certain parts of their body because that makes them feel more comfortable. You can wear shorts, a sports bra, a bathing suit, or whatever else makes you feel relaxed. If your feet are extremely ticklish, you might want to wear socks. Wear whatever you think will make your massage completely stress-free. Can I get a massage with all my clothes on? There are several styles of massage that are done while the client is fully clothed. These include options such as Shiatsu, Thai Massage, and Breema. Each of these types of massage usually takes place on a mat that is placed on the floor. The client wears a long sleeved shirt, pants and socks. This helps the practitioner make contact without slipping off the body. Depending on the style, the massage may include acupressure points, soft stretches, firm pressure over broad areas, and specific work on areas that are tight or cause pain. The massage therapist may use their hands, elbows, knees, or even their feet during these types of massage. If you feel hesitant about removing your clothes, you may also like to consider a chair massage. What is a Chair Massage? This style of massage is done fully clothed while sitting in a special chair designed specifically for massage therapy. You may have seen one in airports, grocery stores, book stores, or a local health fair. You simply sit down in the chair, tuck your legs under you, and lean against the face rest. Now you are ready for a massage on your neck, shoulders, back, hands, arms or even your head (you pick the areas you want the massage therapist to work on). A chair massage can last anywhere from a quick 5 minute pick-me-up to 30 minutes or more. The price is usually about $1 per minute. What happens after the massage? You will be left alone for a few minutes to relax and let the full effect of the massage totally sink in. Some people feel a little dizzy for a while, so wait until you are fully awake before trying to get up. Then you can slowly get off the massage table, wipe off any excess oil or lotion with a towel, and get dressed. Sometimes there is a shower located at the massage studio or spa so you can clean off and remove the extra massage oil from your body. A shower also feels great right after a massage because your skin usually seems a little more tingly and sensitive than usual. Spa treatments like a Salt Glow or other forms of exfoliation often require a shower to get all the salt off your body. However, some people prefer to simply use a towel to wipe off the oil before getting dressed and then take a shower later on. Try to take it easy for the next few hours if you can. Taking a bath or going on a long walk can be an excellent compliment to a massage. Some people will make a special effort to eat fruits and vegetables, do a soft form of exercise like yoga, or focus on other types of self-care which pampers their physical being and spirit. Why do I need to drink water after a massage? The body tends to build up metabolic waste and various toxins that get trapped and stored in-between the soft tissue areas. These wastes and toxins are often pushed into the blood stream and the lymphatic system during a massage (where they belong). If you drink a lot of water, then most of it will be flushed out of the body as waste or broken down into usable elements. But if you don't drink enough water, you may get a headache from all of the toxins in your blood stream once it reaches your brain or it will simply resettle within your body as internal waste once again. Be sure that you drink at least 2 eight ounce glasses of water after your massage.

Directions To Village Massage We are conveniently located inside the 610 loop north of Highway 59 between the Galleria and downtown Houston at 2635 Greenbriar Drive.      Please note that an Internet map will often indicate a location      that is six buildings North of our actual address.      It is a glitch within the Internet map software.      (Yahoo Maps, Google Maps, Mapquest, etc.) Click here for acurate maps to Village Massage From the Galleria Area Head East towards downtown Houston on Richmond Ave. Take a left at the stop light for Greenbriar Drive. Pass the stop light at Alabama and pass two short blocks. Village Massage is on the right side in a beautiful cottage house that has been converted into a wellness center. If you reach Westheimer Avenue, you have gone too far. From Downtown Houston Take Highway 59 South until you reach Kirby. Exit and take a right heading North on Kirby. Pass through the first stop light - Richmond Avenue. Take a right at the next stop light - west Alabama. Continue on west Alabama for a few blocks until you reach the stop light at Greenbriar Drive. Take a left on Greenbriar. Pass two short blocks and side streets named Kipling and Harold. Just after you pass Harold, you will see Village Massage on the right side of the street in a residential neighborhood. It is a beautiful little yellow and tan brick cottage house that has two large trees in front. If you reach Westheimer Avenue, you have gone too far. From North Houston Take Highway 45 South until you reach Highway 59. Take Highway 59 South until you reach Kirby. See the directions above... From South Houston Take Highway 45 North until you reach Highway 59. Take Highway 59 South until you reach Kirby. See the directions above... Please Note: Greenbriar Drive is a one-way street going in the wrong direction where it meets Highway 59 and it is illegal to make a left turn from Shepherd on either Alabama or Westheimer. Also, there is no stop light at Greenbriar & Westheimer. It is much easier to exit at Kirby from Highway 59 and approach Greenbriar from Richmond Avenue. Please let us know if you have any other questions after reading through these directions… Click Here For On-line Scheduling About Us | Services | Rates | Location | F.A.Q. | Links | Summary | Site Map Village Massage   -   2635 Greenbriar Drive   -   Houston, TX 77098   -   713-520-9591 Copyright Copyright © 2012 Village Massage. All Rights Reserved. License Number ME1973