What does it treat?

Hot stone massage is now a staple treatment in spas; we love the penetrating warmth that eases out tension from our muscles. Bamboo massage follows the same principle; warmed bamboo sticks of various diameters are used to roll, knead and relax muscles.

It is brilliant for:
  • Muscle tension
  • Circulation problems
  • Deep relaxation

What is a session like?

The therapist will ask you questions about your health, life style and general wellbeing to make sure the treatment is safe and beneficial for you.  The warmed, oiled canes are then used in the same way as the therapist's hands: rolling, kneading and easing out the tension from your muscles.  The bamboo canes give a broader, more sustained pressure that is great for anyone who likes deep massage. Bamboo can be used to ease out tension from the back, legs arms and even the face for a deeply relaxing treatment.

Why does it work?

The heat from the sticks warms and soften the tissues in the body. The pressure on the muscles can be sustained for longer than in a conventional massage which saves your therapist from wearing out her hands. If you like deep tissue work you are getting good value here!

Who is it for?

If you have left a massage feeling short-changed and that there wasn't enough deep work, this one is for you.  It is also a good choice for people who suffer from the cold, or who find hand to skin contact slightly too intimate, preferring a 'neutral' tool to do the work of ungluing their muscle tension.

Who should stay away?

Sensitive types beware; if you tend towards feeling  overwhelmed, invaded or bruised by deep massage, this is not for you! If you are prone to hot flushes, you might also want to give it a miss. Stay away if:

  • You are pregnant
  • Have a fever
  • Have any sprains
  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes
  • Epilepsy
  • Osteoporosis
  • Thrombosis
  • Inflammation of the joints

Where does it come from?

Bamboo fusion massage was created by Nathalie Cecilia, a Thai massage therapist working in the US. It is reported that she thought up the idea when working with a male client who asked for more pressure than she could deliver alone. She managed to satisfy her client by using bamboo to tap the tension out of his shoulder muscles.