Ria Magtoto

Ria is the Specialty Massage Specialist! Endlessly curious and always learning new ways to support her clients!

WHAT KIND OF CLIENT MAKES YOU REALLY EXCITED TO GIVE A MASSAGE?

I still get really excited when I get runners on my table, I guess because I used to be an avid runner and know how it feels to train for a marathon. I am very familiar with the aches and pain and what the training does to the body. I still miss running and hopefully someday soon I get to race again. 

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO TO MASSAGE SCHOOL?

As a young girl growing up in the Philippines my grandmother used to take us to this elderly woman who did massages for strain, sprain and other ailments. She was like a medicine woman. It stuck with me and I found it very fascinating. Till this day I want to seek out and learn the art of “hilot” which is an indigenous healing modality of my ancestors.

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE HALLOWEEN COSTUME YOU EVER WORE? 

I dressed up as Cleopatra one year with the whole get up, dress, make-up, wig. My friends and I walked into a bar coincidentally “Walk Like an Egyptian “ started playing and the next thing I know I was carried on top of the bar to dance and “Walk Like An Egyptian” Definitely memorable.

WHAT'S ONE THING YOU WISH EVERYONE KNEW BEFORE THEY GOT THEIR FIRST MASSAGE? 

That is it customary to come freshly bathe ;)

WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT LIVING AND WORKING IN NYC?

I love the diversity in NYC and how we pretty much have access to anything and everything. It’s easy to make a living in NYC as long as you’re willing to put in the time and work. 

FAVORITE SEASON? 

I love autumn. Sweater weather and when the leaves start changing colors. 

WHAT WAS THE LAST REALLY GREAT BOOK YOU READ?

Let Your Spirit Guides Speak by Debra Landwehr Engle.

REMEMBER WHEN YOU WERE 13?

Yes, it is was the first time I was ever on a plane!