Massage Therapy Montreal Testimonials - Bodyworks Yoga and Wellness Centre

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Testimonials

Classical Massage

"Elyse’s massages are the only thing that ease the pain and stiffness of my tendonitis and my sciatica. She is always going to seminars learning new techniques. She is versatile in that she can perform softer more relaxing massages, or if necessary and requested, stronger more therapeutic massages. Her acute awarness of people’s energies enhances her technique, and adds a different dimension to her massage therapy."

--Mona

"I am often skeptical when it comes to making an appointment for a massage when I do not know the therapist. I had grown up with an amazing massage therapist as a mom and because of this background I knew that many massages given by various therapists are not all therapeutic. However, with Elyse, I received a wonderful, beneficial massage. Not only was the massage therapeutic, but it was relaxing. I felt amazing afterwards. I recommend anyone to Elyse if they want a great massage with wondrous benefits."

--Katherine

"Five years ago, I began going for regular massages with Elyse. I never liked massages before I started with Elyse and now this is what I most look forward to. She has a gentle touch and provides a soothing and peaceful environment. Elyse always asks about areas of discomfort before she begins so that she can focus on those areas. There have been times where I have been so relaxed that I actually fell asleep! I now feel great and realize that taking care of my body and soul are the most important things in my fast-paced life."

--Shelly E.

"Before Elyse started working on me, I woke up every morning stiff and sore. I was so stiff that it actually took 45 minutes before I could walk straight. I actually had to lean up against a wall to put my pants on. Since she has been working on me, I wake up with no pain!"

--Gary M.

"I have fibromyalgia, which among many other symptoms, means I have pain most of the time, and often in many places. Sometimes it is even painful just to be touched. However, I have been getting regular massages from Elyse for awhile now, and it has been a long time since I have had pain upon touch. In general my pain all over is not gone, but definitely better. I have been to many different massage therapists, and while most do the relaxation part well, Elyse is one of the only ones who can relieve my stiff muscles, soreness, and pain that is often deep down. After a massage with her, I actually feel like a weight has been lifted from my shoulders (where the muscles tend to become very
knotted and painful). If you are looking for a truly therapeutic massage, to fix a problem, then in my experience Elyse is the best!"

-- Robin

"I have never experienced a deeper, more powerful massage. My body feels limber for days, and I find myself looking forward to every appointment. As a physical therapist, I like how Elyse combines active stretching with deep tissue massage- this is an approach I use with my own clients, and I find
this technique to be quite effective in general. It is one of the best things I can do for MYSELF."

-- D.S.

"Elyse has been treating my muscle strains and sprains since 2004. and has always been caring and concerned about my health and well-being. In the pas two years, I have continually aggravated and re-injured my trapezius muscle and one of my IT bands. Elyse's treatments have always brought relief from pain. When I don't have a specific issue to address, Elyse's massages have brought relief from a stressful week at work. As a C.E.O of a large company, I look forward to my sessions and always feel relaxed after them."

--Mark T.

"I have just returned, almost comatose, (that's how relaxed I am) from a most incredible massage , such , that I felt I must contribute my testimonial. Elyse is truly an amazing massage therapist & delightful human being!

I have tendonitis in both shoulders & bursitis in the hip area.I have a perscription , from an orthopedic surgeon, for ongoing deep tissue , therapeutic massages..My husband & I enjoy frequent up- scale cruises, where I've experienced many massages from the very highly British -trained professional therapists who work aboard these ships...I have also taken many massages in town. Never, ever have I had anyone work on me ,who was as knowledgeable & capable as Elyse ...I apparently win the medal for an upper back with the most "knots". Yet ,Elyse is able to do deep tissue work on my pressure points...the likes of which I've never known before.

I strongly endorse Elyse, as an extremely bright & knowledgeable professional. I am convinced , from my experience, that there is no better in the field."

-- Mona P.

"Our weekly massages with Elyse are an integral part of our mind body lifestyle. Along with exercise and good nutrition, my husband and I incorporate yoga, meditation and massage for overall stress management. The various health benefits of massage are well documented, however the professional and personal qualities of a good massage therapist will have a profound effect on the desired results of each client. Elyse has an innate sense of what each one of us needs. Her natural healing approach to treatment is well supported by her knowledge and training. We look forward to our weekly massages and the peaceful night's sleeps that always follow."

-- Harold and Gloria S.

"Elyse does deep work without hurting me and really focuses her attention on the areas I ask for. My nech, shoulders, and lower back have bothered me for years ever since I started working on the computer. I now see Elyse every two weeks and my body feels much more comfortable. She questioned me about my lifestyle habits and made suggestions for stretching, sleeping, and changing how I work. I highly recommend her work."

--Carl E.

"I am a dentist and hold a lot of tension in my upper body from working with patients. I also am very active on the weekends so by the time I arrive for a massage, I really need it. Elyse knows where to concentrate and still is able to fit in the rest of the body. She also doesn't talk too much during the hour so I really get to relax."

--Steve N.

"My job is very stressful and I often get severe headaches. I prefer not to use medication and Elyse's work helps me to control my headaches. Since I've starting getting regular massage, I have fewer, less severs headaches. It's hard for me to take time for massage, but anytime I miss, I can really feel the difference. I've had many massages from many therapists over the years and Elyse's work is exceptional."

--Ellen Y.

"I have had many massages before but the one I received from Elyse was by far the best! She spent a good amount of time figuring out exactly what spots I needed work on and did a great job of working those areas as well. I felt catered to in this regard. Most therapists do not use enough or use too much pressure. Elyse was able to use just the right amount to get to those areas that needed that kind of attention like my neck and shoulders.

This was my first experience with a full body massage and it will NOT be my last. Elyse made me feel comfortable. Safety for me is very important, and I felt totally safe the entire time."

--Stewart F.

"I haven't had a massage since 1999 . Strangely, I was able to work through some emotions during the massage. It was just what the doctor ordered!"

--Barbara D.

"The hour and a half that Elyse worked on me was some of the best quality time I've had in years. I was expecting pain and embarrassment but felt incredibly refreshed and calm afterwards. Elyse provided a safe space for me to do something good for myself. For that, I am grateful."

--Harriet L.

"Elyse's technique felt precise and empathetic. The few times I would find a movement or pressure painful, she would adjust it immediately, and return to my comfort zone. This occurred with muscles I do not use or stretch properly, in the calf, upper arm and back in particular. I thoroughly also enjoyed her foot work, soothing on the heel, oddly energizing on the toes."

--Lewis G.

"The overall feeling afterwards was a pleasant surprise. I felt more "centered" in my body than normal but did not expect to feel so energetic that I wanted to go jogging!"

--Thomas T.

"There is nothing better than a relaxing massage when your whole body is aching and pulling from every direction! I cherish this hour more than you can imagine because it gives me the chance to "really" relax and I also leave so rejuvenated and ready to tackle my days pain-free."

--Ravit

"Elyse is a wonderful healer with a strong but sensitive touch. She shows great knowledge in the work that she does, and carries a great serenity in her interactions, which propagates through her fingertips into her massage work. Elyse offers good energy work and excellent tissue release techniques. Her approach is personalized, far from routine or just going through the motions. She can be deep and clinical or soft and relaxing. Elyse also provides information, advice, and a range of treatments that reach out to your specific areas of need. She cares and makes a true effort to help you in your healing process."

--Armando B.

--Mona

"I appreciate that Elyse works with me to find the right techniques and pressure to meet my needs while still making the massage a serene and relaxing experience. The benefits of her massage extend into my day-to-day wellness because Elyse also helps me understand whats going on with my muscles and joints and identifies habits that may be causing aches and tension."

--Jessie W.

"Elyse has a great knowledge of the body and really understands how to promote healing within it. She is a great massage therapist who I refer my training clients to regularly."

--Eric Z.

"Elyse is the best massage therapist I have ever encountered. She was able to work on areas that I never thought possible.. Elyse is great with Deep Tissue massage and Soft tissue Release….gentle yet firm touch and very tuned in with the person she is working on."

--April G.

"Elyse makes you feel relaxed the moment you walk into the room. As she talks to you and prepares for your massage, you can tell she really has an interest in not only whats going on in your body, but also in who you are. You find yourself feeling comfortably assured that you will be receiving a wonderful therapeutic experience."

--Andrea V.

Pregnancy Massage

"Just weeks away from giving birth to my first baby, the aches and pains of pregnancy were increasing. I knew it was time for another one of Elyse’s massages. I have had three with Elyse to date, and I can honestly say they are the best I have ever had so much so that I convinced my husband to give it a try, knowing that he too, would benefit from Elyse’s “magic touch!”. I highly recommend all pregnant women to allow themselves to be pampered by her."

--Jaia S.

"Pregnancy massage with Elyse Tannenbaum is a truly wonderful experience..I experienced lumbar back pain from the first trimester, and days after my massage, I realized I was virtually pain-free..Elyse's soothing hands also helped with swelling, increased circulation and of course the deep relaxation we all need when we're pregnant! They say you can feel your baby move the most when you're in a deep state of relaxation, and I felt strong movements while lying on Elyse's massage table..A worthwhile and beneficial experience for both mother and baby that helps you enjoy your pregnancy."

-- Anon

"I did it all- Prenatal Yoga, Prenatal Massage, Mommy/ Baby Yoga, and Infant Massage. The first two were to help my aching back and feet. And those classes definitely hit the right spot.

And, at first I signed up for Mommy/Baby Yoga and Infant Massage just to fill up my days- a way for Haeli and me to get out of the house and do something. However, I very quickly learned that these classes were so much more. Not only was the yoga class a way for me to pay some attention to my own body and to do some much needed exercise, but it was also a way for me to physically connect with Haeli in a very relaxed and calm atmosphere. The massage class has also done wonders. Haeli can often get very tense and excited during the day. However, when we implement the calming techniques that Elyse has taught us, Haeli almost instantly relaxes.

The "Bodyworks Yoga and Wellness" pre and postnatal programs should be part of the lives of all expecting and new mothers out there. Not only will it do amazing things for your body and your baby, but it's a great place to meet other people just like you!"

-- Anna

"I started taking Elyse’s prenatal yoga in order to keep active during my pregnancy, not only for the fantastic stretching that has kept my aches and pains to a minimum, but also for the peace and tranquility of mind it provides me with after a full week at work. I knew I would enjoy it, but I never expected to be looking so forward to it week after week. I started the classes in my 10^th week of pregnancy and, in my 38^th week, I’m still going strong. Elyse adapts every pose for all levels of ability and her calm and encouraging tone is both relaxing and motivating. In my 24^th week, to help ease lower back pain I booked a pregnancy massage with Elyse. It was the perfect compliment to the yoga classes. Adding it to my monthly routine has completed the body, mind, and heart connection. It continually strengthens the bond between me and my unborn baby while doing something fantastic for both of us in a safe and soothing environment. I even found myself using the breathing techniques that Elyse had taught us in class to release tension while she massaged me..."

--Lisa M.

--Lauren S.

"Pregnant with my first child and heading into my third trimester, I was beginning to think that a pregnancy massage would do a lot of good. In general I couldn’t really complain, the pregnancy has been great so far, but I had begun to experience mid back pain that was getting worse by the day. I didn’t really know where to go, and most of the spas that I visited online didn’t have much in regards to pregnancy massages, with the exception of Elyse’s site. As soon as I entered her site, I was pretty sure I had found what I was looking for. It transmitted knowledge and understanding in a warm and welcoming manner, much different than the other sites I had seen. Still, I was a little apprehensive going in for my first massage. Elyse quickly put me at ease, and for the next hour I entered what could only be compared to as heavenly bliss. The massage was from head to toe, and allowed me to enter a deep state of relaxation. I must admit that I tried very hard not to fall asleep during my massage, but it was next to impossible!

I now visit Elyse on a weekly basis, and would go much more if I could! I am guaranteed to drift off to a peaceful state of mental and physical relaxation on every visit, that unavoidably leads to sleep, but I can tell you I no longer try to avoid this! It feels too good to resist!!! I also have to mention that Elyse is the FIRST massage therapist who successfully massaged my feet without me jumping off the table. I never thought I would be able to enjoy a foot massage, as ticklish as I am, but I have been able to just that!

Thank you Elyse!!! You have made the massage experience one to thoroughly enjoy every week. What would I do without you?!?"

--Amy

"Let me start by saying I have been suffering with chronic back pain for 2 years after a work injury, I had no relief from physio, or exercise, when I got pregnant the pain only intensified, Elyse was recommended to me for pregnancy massage, which did wonders, I then joined prenatal yoga, and have had little to no back pain since, I never thought I would have pain free days especially while pregnant. I am 31 weeks now and plan to continue yoga in combination with massage until delivery, and then after with my baby. Elyse has a wonderful touch and calmness about her, I cherish the day I found her."

--Elana Cohen

"The combination of Prenatal Yoga and Pregnancy Massage with Elyse was a lifesaver during my pregnancy. Emotionally, the two therapies helped me deal with the anxiety of my first pregnancy and manage some complications that arose during my nine months. Physically, they worked to prevent much of the physical discomforts such as backache and reduced mobility. Pregnancy is a time in your life when you can truly give yourself permission to pamper your mind and body for a whole nine months!"

--Debra J.

"Nurture yourself and your baby with a massage designed to rejuvenate your skin, decrease swelling, increase energy and relieve common discomforts such as sciatica, lower back pain and heartburn."

--Julia O.

"After 5 years of trying to get pregnant I did in November of 2005. From the onset of this pregnancy I had back problems. The baby was positioned in such a way that it affected the alignment of my back and the "sciatic nerve". I had undergone an ultrasound and amniosynthesis exam. My placenta was low but baby was healthy. So I was told to stop exercising for a good four months until the next scheduled ultrasound. Twenty one weeks into the pregnancy I was in a very poor physical and mental state due to the chronic back pain and severe numbness in my right leg. The obstetrician urgently set up an appointment with a reputable neurologist. Indeed he diagnosed a problem. He recommended tylenol and so forth... I replied that I rarely take any medication and refuse to do so during pregnancy. He said if the placenta stabilizes itself to a normal level you can engage in some mild form of pre-natal stretching and strengthening exercises to relieve the pressure on your back. He left it into my hands and my willpower to find someone. After the second ultrasound the placenta was normal and I quickly conducted a research on the internet. I came across Elyse Tannenbaum's
web-site. Was quickly drawn to her specializations. She had so much more to offer compared to other massotherapists and yoga instructors. Being a strong believer of alternative medecine and preventative treatments I called her explained to her my condition. She agreed to work with me if my
obstetrician gave me the green light. Got the green light a week later I'm facing this remarkable and knowledgeable person Elyse Tannenbaum. From the first pre-natal massage I felt a physical difference. Subsequent sessions consisted of exercises mostly stretching and strengthening to relieve pain in the lower back. I felt I had gone through a metamorphisis stage. These one on one sessions proved fruitful. She made me feel very comfortable, confident and was very reassuring. Her voice was very soothing, and her exercise program was specifically targeted for my needs. I always tell her God Bless You!"

--Dorianna V.

"My hips, upper and lower back as well as my neck were all aching during pregnancy. Despite my best efforts to stretch, attend yoga classes etc., Elyse's Pregnancy Massage brought immediate relief, calming my muscles and easing my mind. I finally went into labor and delivery well rested and confident that my body could handle this."

--Allison J.

"Being pregnant added stress to my life, on top of work and home responsibilities. I looked forward to regular Pregnancy Massages from Elyse to relieve the pain in my upper and lower back, shoulders and hips. That was great for both me and the baby."

--Jane M.

"Elyse is very skilled at focusing on specific areas of need and addressing them. I love her technique. She helped me ease my lower back pain throughout my pregnancy. Pregnancy massage with Elyse was truly a relaxing experience."

--Orit R.

"With all my weight gain, lower back pain and stress of pregnancy, Elyse was able to use her focus and strength to allow my muscles to surrender. Surrendering is what delivery is all about!"

--Karen S.

"I don't think I could have gotten through my pregnancy without Elyse's help in both Prenatal Yoga and Pregnancy Massage. Although I didn't have a difficult pregnancy, it was a painful one. The combination of yoga and massage helped me to deal with the pain in my hips and back so that life was bearable. Thank-you Elyse for helping me bring my precious girl into the world!"

--Daniella S.

"Taking Prenatal Yoga with Elyse helped me to relax and get in touch with my body prior to delivery. She is an excellent teacher- both patient and encouraging. I liked Elyse so much that I also received Pregnancy Massage from her. I was very nervous about labor and carried my stress through my neck and shoulders. I was also diagnosed with carpal Tunnel Syndrome in m y last trimester. During the last 6 weeks of my pregnancy, I received weekly massage and was relieved of the knots in my shoulders, neck and arms. I highly recommend Elyse's Prenatal Yoga classes and pregnancy Massage."

--Marni D.

"I was very large during my last pregnancy carrying a large baby with extra amniotic fluid while running after an active toddler at home. Elyse's Prenatal Yoga and Pregnancy massages were the only things that kept the discomfort to a minimum and gave me a much needed break physically and mentally. Her experience with pregnant women gave me a lot of comfort that I was in good hands."

--Heather M.

"I have had the good fortune of experiencing Elyse's many talents on several levels. In her Prenatal Yoga classes, I learned to relax, stretch, and breathe, all of which were helpful in my birthing process. I also went for several Pregnancy massages before the delivery of my baby, and highly recommended this to all of my friends, pregnant or not! After giving birth, I continued with the massages to help ease all my aches and pains from breastfeeding and carrying my baby. I also joined Elyse's Postnatal Yoga classes to get some tone back into my over-stretched muscles. It was wonderful to interact with other moms and their infants. Again, I cannot say enough about the healing power of massage, both physically and mentally. Finally, I enrolled in a regular Hatha Yoga class that I attended without my baby. This turned out to be my only break from my baby and it was a great place to come and stretch, breathe, and relax - just to take a break. Elyse has been very helpful through this new motherhood journey of mine and I appreciate everything she has done for me! Thanks Elyse!!!"

--Donna L.

"The combination of Prenatal Yoga and Pregnancy Massage with Elyse was a lifesaver during my pregnancy. Emotionally, the two therapies helped me deal with the anxiety of my first pregnancy and manage some complications that arose during my nine months. Physically, they worked to prevent much of the physical discomforts such as backache and reduced mobility. Pregnancy is a time in your life when you can truly give yourself permission to pamper your mind and body for a whole nine months!"

--Debra J.

"If I were a queen, I would ask Elyse to give me this massage every night before bedtime: so soothing that I fall asleep so fast! Relaxation and tension relief from the top of head to the tips of toes. Oh, and my feet are so ticklish, I can magically give in only to Elyse's gentle hands!

Soft music, calming sounds of nature, relaxing smell of lavender and warmth of gentle, yet powerful touch.

Overall - wonderful experience!"

--Larissa.

"In any yoga class, I believe that the teacher holds the key as to what I will take away from the class. In this case I feel like I have found a hidden treasure in Elyse. During her pregnancy yoga classes she guides one through a mix of stretching, breathing and relaxation that not only helps the mind but also the growing belly! The breathing techniques in her class will be an asset when in labor and her techniques for relaxation and reducing back ache can be done at home and have helped me continue working and get through the day. To help my body and mind even more I have taken advantage of her pregnancy massages which have proven to be the best massages I have ever had. Post baby I look forward to taking her "Mommy and Baby" yoga class, baby massage class as well as her regular yoga classes. I think I will be spending a great deal of time at Elyses'! Lucky me!"

--Mary-Ellen

"Elyse has hands that can take anyone into a total state of relaxation. Being pregnant with my third baby, having a massage is a great escape from my busy life. From legs to back to arms to head, and even ears, Elyse makes sure to touch every part of my body. The experience is truly amazing! I would recommend Elyse's hands to anyone who is pregnant and needs relief from sciatica, lower back, shoulder and neck pain, or simply to energize and heal themselves!

"There is nothing better than a relaxing massage when your whole body is aching and pulling from every direction while pregnant! I cherish this hour more than you can imagine because it gives me the chance to "really" relax and I also leave so rejuvenated and ready to tackle my days pain-free."

--Ravit

"It's been so wonderful having Elyse come to my house and give me the most relaxing message. Being pregnant with twins, I have been on bed rest for the past two months my aches and pains have been exhausting. Having Elyse come once a week has allowed me to have a feeling of relief and complete relaxation. I look forward to our visits, it has made the past few months much easier for me."

--Alex