Three Luxurious Prenatal Massages In Toronto

I gained 30 lbs during my pregnancy (ironically, the same amount I piled on during my first year at UofT). And while the added pounds never fazed me, I definitely felt the toll on my body. It’s truly incredible how many dramatic changes take place throughout the 40 weeks — changes that cause a plethora of muscle aches and joint pain, amongst other things. A pretty good reason to get pampered, don’t ya think?!? I certainly did! Knowing that pregnancy massages help reduce anxiety, stress, depression and pain I set out on a mission to find the best prenatal massage in Toronto. But I quickly found myself wanting more than just a sesh with a RMT — I yearned for luxury damn it. That’s right, I deserved a few hours of “me time” filled with relaxation and all the glam. And I knew exactly where to head: my favourite spas. Having experienced their regular massage services before becoming pregnant, I had a feeling they would impress in the pregnancy massage realm too. While not all of them met my expectations, a few catapulted me into a state of bliss. Here are the three most luxurious prenatal massages in Toronto, in my humble opinion…

The Spa At Four Seasons Hotel Toronto

By now you guys know how much I LOVE the Four Seasons. Not only was the hotel chain founded right here in Toronto, but they just know how to do luxury. It’s in their blood: everyone who works at the hotel understands the core principles of hospitality and they deliver it with finesse. FS also knows how to design interiors that are transformative — from their hotel rooms to their restaurants. The Spa is no exception. It’s filled with natural light, has gorgeous relaxation beds, calming textures and colours, private change rooms, the softest robes and proper lockers (something many spas just can’t seem to get right). They even have an underwater sound system in the pool…

I’ve had several treatments at The Spa so I knew I was in for a treat when my RMT, Chantelle, guided me into one of the oversized treatment suites. As I laid on my side and slowly melted into the heated massage bed, she played six soundtracks so I could choose one that I loved (I picked the oriental tunes). She then worked her magic using an ultra-exclusive product line that smells heavenly and is safe for pregnant women. A chime signalled the beginning and end of my massage. It was pure bliss.

Spa My Blend By Clarins At Ritz-Carlton Toronto

My RMT, Sara Jean, was quite possibly the friendliest therapist I’ve ever had. She also gave me the BEST hip, leg and foot massage. Not only that, but she (and other RMTs I’ve had at this spa) also give great tips post-massage. In my case it was all focused on improving my posture — that extra 30 lbs really had me hunched over. The communal relaxation room (aka the Sanctuary) at Spa My Blend by Clarins is my fave in the city. I love the high ceilings, the natural light that beams through, the healthy snacks (from dehydrated apples and muffins to nuts and pretzels). Sadly they no longer offer the Clarins tester bar in the Sanctuary, but you can still try the beauty products and get a skin consultation at the front.

My fave feature at this spa? There is a proper quiet room in the ladies change room: it’s actually silent and unbelievably cozy — a place to truly get some R&R. Other highlights? The pool has great views of the CN tower, the products in the change room smell amazing (I love the coconut-scented shampoo) and the rain shower and body sprays are perfection. I left my prenatal massage feeling like a brand new woman. I also went into labour the day after (on my due date) so it was perfect timing!

Miraj Hammam Spa By Caudalie Paris At Shangri-La Hotel Toronto

If you’re looking for a unique experience, this spa is for you! Inspired by ancient rituals of the Middle East and old world traditions, it’s opulent, exotic and will whisk you away to another realm. The Babylon Room is my absolute fave so that’s where I booked my prenatal massage with RMT Jennifer. She was fantastic and used the perfect amount of pressure during my treatment. Out of all the spas in the city, I’d say Miraj Hammam Spa By Caudalie Paris has the best front desk service. It’s truly exceptional — prompt, friendly, attentive. However, there is def room for improvement at this spa: I only spotted two showers in the change room, they don’t have a designated quiet room (yes, there is a pre and post-treatment area, but it’s always buzzing with conversation) and the lockers are super tricky (myself, many other guests and employees had issues opening them). The good news is that there are major renos currently taking place so hopefully some of these things will be improved during the expansion.

That being said, there’s so much to love about this spa: the baklava and tea service always make me feel like Middle Eastern royalty, the treatments are amazing (with little details like beauty mist at the end of massages) and the service is top notch. Every single person I’ve sent to Miraj Hammam Spa By Caudalie Paris has emailed me after with glowing reviews. Go here to escape the city and indulge, indulge, indulge!

Stick with any of these three spas for your prenatal massages in Toronto and you’ll be a happy mama — I tried about a dozen more and they didn’t even come close to the level of luxury and RMT expertise they offer. Speaking of RMT, if you’re insured that will help with the higher-than-average bill at the end of your treatments. My biggest tip when visiting these spas is to give yourself a few hours to take advantage of everything they offer and soak up every single ounce of luxury before that baby arrives. Trust me, you will not regret it.

A huge thanks to the spas for hosting my prenatal massages. As always, reviews and opinions are my own. I’ve visited each dozens of times on my own dime and highly recommend them for any type of treatment.