The Perks and Pains of Working from Home

This is the reality of my life as an online worker. The money is good, and I get to stay at home all day—a dream setup for many introverts like me.

But over time, the stiff neck and tight shoulders creep in, and the dull ache in my lower back turns into something I can’t ignore. Sitting in front of my computer from 6:00 in the morning until 10:00 takes a toll on my body. I get about a two-hour break before returning to my desk, tapping away at my keyboard until 10:00 in the evening.

One evening, the pain became unbearable, so I asked my mom to give me a back rub. It helped, but only temporarily. I knew I needed something more, so I searched for a massage place nearby. I found one just 15 minutes away by car. In the countryside, making reservations isn’t really a thing, so I decided to walk in. Luckily, they had an available slot in 30 minutes.

I didn’t mind the wait. The place was cool and well air-conditioned, the air filled with the refreshing scent of lemongrass. Soft music played in the background, and the calming atmosphere immediately put me at ease. I could already feel some of my stress melting away.

At the reception, a friendly lady handed me a form, explaining that it was for their records and would help my therapist tailor the treatment to my needs. That level of professionalism reassured me that I was in good hands—especially since the prices were higher than the average massage places in the province.

As I filled out the form, my therapist introduced herself and surprised me with a welcome tray. It had a shot of iced ginger tea and a rolled-up cold towel. Wow! It reminded me of my stay at a five-star hotel abroad, where the staff offered my mom and me refreshments and warm towels. Back then, the towel was warm because it was freezing outside—under 10 degrees.

I drank the ginger tea and wiped my forehead and neck with the cold towel, which had a soothing bamboo scent. After reviewing my form, my therapist asked a few more questions about my health and preferences before making her recommendation. I trusted her judgment and went with her suggestion.

She then led me to my massage cubicle and patiently explained what I needed to do. When she returned, she straightened the linen I had used to cover myself while lying on my stomach. Then, in a soft voice, she told me we were about to begin and asked me to take three deep breaths. Placing her hands gently on the small of my back, she guided my breathing, pressing slightly as I exhaled. And with that, the most relaxing hour I’d had in a long time began.

The Balinese massage was amazing. The pressure was just right—firm but not too intense—and the gentle stretching worked wonders on my tight muscles. My therapist focused on my lower back, shoulders, and neck, but what surprised me most was how good the massage on my legs felt. I hadn’t even realized how heavy they felt until her rhythmic strokes relieved the tension.

After the massage, my therapist explained that since I sit for long hours, circulation in my legs is affected, causing blood and fluids to pool. The massage helped improve blood flow and drain excess fluid through the lymph nodes. That made so much sense!

Just as I was about to head to the counter to pay, I was offered another tray—this time with an intriguing blue tea and a glass of water. The tea, made from butterfly pea flowers, was said to lower blood pressure and regulate blood sugar. I took a sip, and to my surprise, it tasted really good.

Before I left, my therapist reminded me to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and flush out toxins. I made my payment, and it was absolutely worth every penny. I even gave my therapist a generous tip—her skills and genuine care made the experience exceptional.

Before walking out the door, I booked another session for the following week. Instead of treating myself to two whole pizzas—one for me and the other for my mom and daughter—I’ve decided this will be my new way of rewarding myself. A massage costs about the same as a pizza, but the benefits last so much longer.

My only regret? One hour wasn’t enough. Next time, I’m going for an hour and a half. I can’t wait for the weekend!

Treat yourself to a relaxing massage @ME Zone Spa!

Visit us at ME Zone Spa, Ground Floor, Isabel Building (same building as 7-Eleven bayan), Rosario, La Union.

For inquiries & reservations: Call 0939 040 5420 | 0961 754 8315 or send us a message via FB Messenger.

Spa Hours:

Sunday to Thursday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Friday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Closed on Saturdays

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