Originating on the exotic island of Bali, the Balinese
massage therapy is one of a number of ancient
traditional massage techniques of Indonesia which had been
carried down from one generation to another as a method of
curing a wide variety of complaints.
The Balinese massage is unique in that it brings together
several alternative medicine practices such as massage therapy,
acupressure, reflexology
and aromatherapy with
the use of essential oils scented with striking aromas of
jasmine, rose, sandalwood, coconut, cempaka, sandat or
frangipani into a single massage session.
Ultimate Relaxation
As is true with most massage techniques, the Balinese
massage strives to reach the ultimate state of relaxation of
the body and the mind. What sets it apart is that the
Balinese believe that, in order to attain that heightened state
of relaxation, blood and oxygen must flow freely and only then
will the gi or energy flow without restraints.
How it's performed
The Balinese massage therapy is performed on a conventional
massage table or on a soft mat on the floor and a great deal of
attention is paid to the scented oils which are generally
applied at room temperature. For restorative purposes of
an ailing or painful body part warmed oil with an added mixture
of lemon grass, cloves, or ginger is applied. Overall,
the bouquet of fragrances used in the Balinese massage therapy
is intended to induce relaxation, to promote indulgence of the
body, and to drive away nervousness and unhealthy tension.
Balinese Massage Video
Ubud Hanging Gardens in Bali
To reach the deeper tissues of the muscles, the Balinese
massage therapist alternately applies vigorous kneading, cross
fiber mobilization, and skin rolling with gentle motions
to every muscle of the body. To enhance results with long
lasting effects, robust acupressure movements such as hardy
press point and strong palm pressure are
generously applied in addition to the standard massage
techniques such as sliding, long and short exploration, and
manipulating.
Balinese can be compared to Ayurveda
The Balinese massage therapy is far from being gentle or
delicate and it is, therefore, time and time again compared to
Ayurveda, an Indian holistic medicinal method which is
considered by most as being extremely intense. It is due
to the inherent intensity of this form of massage that
this therapy is so successful in reaching deep into tense and
strained muscles to sooth and calm their spasms.
As a matter of fact, the Balinese massage therapy is quite
frequently prescribed for sports injuries as well as for stiff
and achy joints due to various injuries or ailments, for easing
migraines and lesser headaches, for relieving sleep
deprivation and insomnia, for mitigating chronic and acute
breathing maladies due to allergies and asthma, for boosting
blood circulation and the lymphatic system, as well as for
alleviating stress and easing anxiety and depression. In
essence, the Balinese massage is a rigorous, yet lavish,
therapeutic system that aims to bring the body and mind in full
synchronization of optimal health, well being, tranquility and
spiritual renewal.
Before you have your massage:
In preparation for a Balinese massage treatment, you should
give yourself plenty of time to savor the entire experience and
its afterglow.
As with all therapies your massage therapist may
need to modify the treatment depending on your
circumstances. For that reason, let him or her know if
you:
Know that you are pregnant or think you might be.
Have any pains or stiffness in your joints or
limbs.
Have had a recent injury or underwent surgery.
Are suffering from high or low blood pressure.
Have any kind of heart problems or any other medical
condition and are going through some form of
treatment.
Are on any prescription medication.
Variations on Balinese Massage Therapy
Bali is just one island out of the 17,508 islands which
comprise the Republic of Indonesia, a nation located in
Southeast Asia and the world’s largest archipelagic
state. Many of the other Indonesian islands adopted their
own massage techniques which are similar to the Balinese
massage in their endeavor to heal the physical body and the
spiritual mind, yet they are also distinct and bear their own
unique characteristics. Some of them are:
Sasak massage.
Lombok massage.
Urat massage.
Balinese Boreh. A paste of ground spices is used
to relieve pain and this massage technique was conceived by
local rice farmers.
Javenese Lulur Ritual. This is customarily
executed on brides in preparation of their wedding
day.
Have you decided to give the Balinese massage a try?
Good choice! Relax, enjoy the process and come out
smelling heavenly.
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