Body Freedom Urban Retreat is one of Australia’s renowned pregnancy practitioners. That is because we understand how precious and individual your pregnancy is.

The Retreat is brought to you with the wisdom and care of our co-owner Jacqueline Johnston – an experienced midwife and birthing specialist.  Her massage techniques were learnt under the guidance of leading UK pregnancy massage educator and author Suzanne Yates. Jacqueline trains each of our pregnancy practitioners to ensure the highest of standards and deepest relaxation.

Body Freedom has developed the unique practice of using a futon with pregnancy pillows for the highest level of comfort with no strain on your back or tummy, allowing for the best possible massage.

“I felt it was important to create a nurturing environment where pregnant mothers could take a rare moment to stop still, catch their breath and fully unwind. And know they are being massaged by a therapist specially trained for pregnancy”Jacqueline Johnston, co-owner The Retreat.

Rebecca Judd said it best with the following excerpt from her blog.

“Now that I’m pregnant again, I cannot wait to get my favourite pregnancy massage   at Body Freedom Urban Day Spa in South Melbourne. She was recommended to me by a girlfriend after I was complaining last time I was pregnant about not having found a pregnancy massage that I liked. Most places require you to lie on your tummy when they massage you. While they provide a hole for your tummy to fit into it means all of the pressure is on your boobs- ouch!!! Hello, you need a hole cut out for each boob to fit into too because, I for one, cannot lie on them when I’m pregnant- too sore (but boy do I like how big they are! haha). The other thing I’m not a fan of, is lying flat on my back for a massage. It is not recommended by health professionals after a certain number of weeks (12 or 16 I think?) because the pressure of the baby on certain nerves and blood vessels is not ideal.

So what makes Body Freedom Urban Day Spa’s preggo massage so good? The masseurs are trained by a qualified midwife and practice the techniques by leading UK pregnancy massage therapist Suzanne Yates, so you are in the safest of hands. The thing I loved the most was that you are treated on a futon, lying on your side and also over a fit ball. It is the most relaxing, therapeutic massage I have ever had and in the final couple of months of my pregnancy with Oscar, I booked in for one every single week. I was addicted. They know exactly what was happening in my body, where Oscar was sitting and where I needed the most work- she was brilliant!

I highly, highly recommend all the preggy bellies out there pay this place a visit.”

A few tips

• We recommend most people start pregnancy massage once the first trimester has passed.
• You may be eligible to claim for remedial massage on your health insurance. Please speak to us when booking.
• For your first pregnancy massage visit, we recommend a longer 75 minute treatment.