As a self-described "anxious ball of energy," Mattie Bearden admits that she was a little hesitant the first time she tried one of the Spa Yoga sessions she now offers at Mad Hatter Massage & Wellness. After just one session with yoga instructor Amy Darby, however, she was sold.
"I loved every second of it. Actually, when she said it was over, I was like, 'Are you sure?'" laughed Bearden, owner of the massage therapy studio in Fort Oglethorpe. "It's one of the most relaxing things I have ever done."
Mattie Bearden relaxes during a Spa Yoga session with Amy Darby. Darby is certified in AromaTouch therapy, a clinical application of essential oils. (Contributed photo)That feeling of tranquility is exactly what she hopes to share with clients who want a break from their fast-pace lifestyles and yoga classes.
Developed and conducted by Darby, the sessions are undergone privately to imbue yoga practitioners with the same sense of peaceful solace patrons enjoy during a spa treatment. The room is lit with candles and filled with soft music.
Throughout each appointment, Darby leads the individual through a series of yin yoga poses, which are slower and less active than the more popular vinyasa or "flow" yoga styles, allowing the client to focus on breathing and meditation. Darby then uses compressive massage techniques while participants are performing the pose to help them stretch their muscles and increase their range of motion.
"We're hoping to not just help you relax. We are really hoping to focus on range of motion, increasing and decreasing the pain that you may have just from day-to-day stuff or from trying to stay fit," Bearden explained.
The session wraps up with AromaTouch massage techniques, which use essential oils to reduce physical and emotional stress, offer immune support and promote further relaxation.
Private sessions are available for booking on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
Anyone interested is invited to schedule a 30-minute or 1-hour appointment online at madhattermassageandwellness.com.
Email Myron Madden at mmadden@timesfreepress.com.
Mattie Bearden relaxes during a Spa Yoga session with Amy Darby. Darby is certified in AromaTouch therapy, a clinical application of essential oils. (Contributed photo)
Mattie Bearden relaxes during a Spa Yoga session with Amy Darby. Darby is certified in AromaTouch therapy, a clinical application of essential oils. (Contributed photo)