Those with a heavy load on their shoulders can get some relief … for a price.

Since 1998, the Student Recreation Center has offered a massage service with certified massage therapists John Sweeney, director of Campus Recreation, said the service is part of the office’s larger mission.

“We are committed to the overall health and well-being of the student body and university community,” he said. “We have a wellness component of our operation, and massage therapy is a big part of that and has done very well.”

Massage therapist Jude Mayer charges $40 for an hour-long massage and $20 for a half-hour. She offers several types of massages including Swedish, acupressure and Oriental.

Intramural Sports Coordinator Amy Fawcett said students should try a massage to see if they like it and added that the prices are below market value.

“It’s a great opportunity for students, faculty and staff to maybe try massages at prices that are less expensive than a private spa or something like that,” she said. “It’s also a great opportunity to relax. It takes 15 minutes, 20 minutes, half hour, hour or whatever you are paying for, and it’s just plain relaxation. Nothing else is going on, and it’s all about you.”

Students will see many benefits, Sweeney said.

“Physically, it relieves muscle tension and stress and any kind of muscle spasms,” he said. “It improves your blood circulation and reduces your blood pressure and encourages a faster healing time if you have any type of injury and it helps strengthen the immune system. Emotionally, they can induce a better feeling of well-being and it also enhances your self-image and reduces anxiety.”

Fawcett has been a client of Mayer and has been impressed by her style.

“She’s very professional. I enjoy going to Jude because she will do whatever you want,” she said. “If you want her to focus on your back, she will just focus on your back if that’s where all the tension is. She can be really specific. If you want the full body, she can do that too. She is very versatile.”

Appointments can be made at the Rec, and payment is required in advance.