Bamboo massage therapy

The nondescript bamboo is capable of doing wonders to the human body. Sharmila Chand elaborates on the bamboo massage therapy, fast becoming popular in spas.

Bamboo, as is commonly perceived, is not just an oriental tree of mild interest. It is much more than that, owing to its immensely rejuvenating potential. Firmly rooted beliefs in Asian culture say that stalks of bamboo symbolise eternal youth, strength, prosperity and peace. So, next time, think twice before you dispose off a bamboo stick.

Capitalising on the myriad benefits of bamboo, several spas across the country have begun offering bamboo massage therapy, also called bamboo fusion or Tian di bamboo massage.

How it works

Bamboo stalks of varying lengths and diameters are used in the treatment. Sometimes, they are heated for better results. The outer cell walls of bamboo are covered with silica, due to which bamboo is hard and straight, yet flexible and light. This creates a crystalline-like matrix, much like that of a quartz crystal or our own connective tissue. Some practitioners believe that releasing tension or facial adhesions held within this matrix can help restore and re-balance the body’s electromagnetic field.

A few therapists combine elements of Thai massage, lymphatic drainage, shiatsu (the traditional Chinese medicine, where bamboo cups or the ends of the stalks are used in specific ways) and even ayurveda in the technique. Heated bamboo massage incorporates the use of oil or lotion to allow smooth, long strokes and varying levels of pressure.

The therapist usually starts with a light touch and progresses to deeper techniques, varying from Swedish strokes to deep-tissue moves with the added benefit of deep penetrating heat. Most strokes are applied in the direction of the heart in
order to enhance blood circulation.

Stimulation of the tissue by the bamboo sticks is believed to relieve sluggishness by dissipating the heat that results from accumulation of toxins and poor circulation. Some recipients of bamboo massage feel it works much the same way as a deep-tissue massage, trigger-point activation or various acupressure techniques and
describe these releases as a body tingling or warming sensation.

Thus, bamboo is a perfect example of renewable and sustainable resource, which is not only beneficial for our wellness, but also acts as an agent that re-connects us to ancient theories. We must, indeed, hold onto this seemingly simple material that has the capacity to offer strength, flexibility and versatility.

Magic of bamboo

“Bamboo is an extremely resilient and strong product. Thus, it becomes the
ultimate tool to assist with a pressure point, deep-tissue acupressure massage. It is also very auspicious, representing good health, good luck, long life, friendship, peace and harmony. The natural texture, colour and fibre of the bamboo allows for a uniqueness for each bamboo set. Various shapes and sizes are used to work on certain areas and various pressure points bringing about a deep feeling of pressure relief and relaxation,” says Tracey Poole, director of Six Senses Spa, Delhi.

The good things

Here is how a bamboo message therapy will benefit you:

*Increases blood circulation*Flushes body of metabolic wastes and aids in detoxification
*Decreases muscle spasms
*Breaks up tissue adhesions
*Releases endorphins to promote relaxation and pain reduction