Sure, the idea of a 90-minute hot-stone massage at the end of a long day sounds like a pretty sweet way to relax, but unless you’ve got nothing but time, that kind of leisurely indulgence is a rarity. More often than not, no matter how desperately you need to de-stress or could use a full-body deep-tissue massage, there’s just not enough time in the day.

More local spots are recognizing this fact and have started to offer express massages. These treatments last no more than 30 minutes and, although short by luxe standards, can make all the difference when you’re feeling tense, overwhelmed, or overwrought.

Here are a few places that, in addition to a full menu of longer, regular treatments, offer mini massages to help you relax when time is tight.  

Spa by JW Vancouver

The spa on the 17th floor of Parq Vancouver’s JW Marriott hotel has a chair designed for this very purpose. The express chair (the “jaguar of massage chairs”) comes complete with state-of-the-art software for a multi-sensory massage.

Guests can customize the experience by choosing accompanying visuals and sounds, whether it’s the gentle chatter of a rainforest escape or the ocean softly lapping the shores. They can pick their essential oils too, ranging from Support Lavender (comforting and uplifting) to De-Stress Frankincense (focusing & soothing).

Treatments include the Energy Boost Massage (scalp, back, and arms); Tension Release Massage (back, neck and shoulders); or Relaxing Scalp Massage. They last 12 or 25 minutes ($45 and $90 respectively) and can be booked by phone or online. (39 Smithe Street)

My Foot Reflexology 

What started out in Singapore in 1996 to provide meaningful employment to people who were visually impaired has grown into a global company, with four locations in Vancouver.

The therapists’ intensive training is based on a syllabus developed at the Reflexology and Holistic Health Academy Singapore.

The Head and Hand massage, which includes hand reflexology, is said to help relieve headaches, migraines, jaw tension and eye strain. The 15-minute treatment costs $28 and can be booked by phone or online.

Blink Brow Bar 

When you’re not shaping your eyebrows or tinting your lashes, you can take a seat at a comfortable chair for a massage that focuses on the head and shoulders. Lasting 30 minutes, it costs $40. Book by phone or online. (810 West Hastings Street and 577 Bute Street)