Maria Athanassiou

Qualified Massage Therapist – Wellington

Hi, I’m Maria, a registered therapist with Massage New Zealand with 5 years of experience in the industry. I’m currently one year into studying remedial massage therapy, having recently completed modules in massage for pathology, massage for physical performance, and neuromuscular therapy.

I am passionate about helping clients achieve their goals through a variety of massage applications paired with tailored home care.

I have experience in both mobile/in-office massage and working in a luxury spa setting. I pride myself on being accommodating, punctual, and professional, delivering an exceptional and relaxing treatment.

For those seeking to enhance the more active part of their life, I offer sports massage, deep tissue massage, and performance-enhancing massage. With these, it’s all about helping your body tissues relax, repair, and heal in an optimal manner (more details are available when directed to the booking platform). I provide a calm, safe, and relaxing practice so that you can relax, unwind, and enjoy your hands-on massage.

Chiharu Arai

Qualified Massage Therapist – Wellington

I was born and raised in Japan and have worked as a massage therapist since 2019. I have completed the study of Japanese Seitai (meaning “balanced body”), which is a Japanese therapeutic massage that focuses on healing the body holistically. This has been effective in treating tension and discomfort which has earned me a loyal following.

I have also been formerly trained in reflexology and Shiatsu. Reflexology is treating the body through a detailed map on the feet which has links to energy pathways throughout the body. Shiatsu is a dry massage without oil which involves stretching the body and addressing ailments through pressure points and rolling techniques.

I have gravitated naturally to massage as I have always taken pleasure in healing & caring for people. I believe putting hands on someone’s skin or body can reduce pain and can calm the mind. I have a degree in psychology too which aids my understanding between the mind-body connection. Many of my clients say I have healing hands. I specialise in deep tissue, shiatsu, reflexology and relaxation massage.

Ask me about Shiatsu massage and if you’re interested in Japanese culture!

Our Massage Therapy Services

For rest and relaxation
• General massage
• Relaxation massage

For sports and performance enhancing
• Deep tissue massage
• Sports massage
• Performance enhancing massage
• Injury recovery massage

For pregnancy
• Pregnancy massage – during pregnancy and postnatal

SEE OUR TREATMENTS PAGE FOR FULL SERVICES.

Experience and Qualifications

Maria has been actively practising massage therapy for 5 years, and continues to develop expertise across a wide range of massage therapy techniques. Establishing Body Calm Massage Therapy has enabled Maria to further extend massage services into her key areas of passion.

Maria is certified, with a Level 5 Diploma in Relaxation Massage Therapy & Wellness, from The New Zealand College of Massage.

Her previous experience includes working in the Wellington Hospital Neonatal Ward, Mary Potter Hospice, and providing massage therapy to a local sports team. She also has a background in office-based massage, events, and in a luxury spa setting.

Relaxation
Massage

Deep Tissue
Massage

Performance
Enhancing
Massage

Pregnancy
Massage