A Relaxing Javanese Massage Experience

Let’s face it. We live in a fast-paced world. As a result, we experience far more stress than ever before. Most of the time, this stress manifests itself in various physical aches and pains.

One way of relieving stress is by having a massage. It is said that there are hundreds of different types of massage techniques. One of the more popular one in Indonesia is the traditional Javanese massage.

For hundreds of years, the Javanese have used traditional massage to ease muscle and joint pain. This is believed to help improve blood circulation, as well as stimulate the body’s natural regenerative process.

When it comes to getting an authentic Javanese massage in Jakarta, one of the better places to go is the hotel spa at the Marriott Mayflower Executive Apartments.

“Most of our guests request the massage,” said Siska, who is one of the Mayflower’s senior spa therapists.

“They usually come, complaining of fatigue and muscle pain and when they leave after the massage, they usually say that they feel much better.”

The luxury spa, located on the 28th floor of The Indofood Tower in Sudirman, boasts comfortable locker rooms for male and female customers, a steam room, a sauna, and four treatment rooms, each equipped with individual showers.

“You’re advised to enjoy the steam and sauna facilities prior to the massage,” said Desi, who was going to be my spa therapist for the day.

“The heat will loosen up your muscles and prepare your body for the massage. It will also open your pores so you can absorb the oil treatment.”

Olive oil is usually used for Javanese massage. However, customers may also opt for relaxing lavender or sweet-smelling strawberry aromatherapy oils to be used instead.

The treatment rooms are warm and cozy. Desi invited me to take a seat in front of a bronze basin containing floating rose petals and bright yellow gerberas. I was told to immerse my feet in the warm water.

The treatment reminded me of mandi bunga (flower bath), an ancient Javanese ritual where water is believed to transfer the positive energy of the flowers to the bather for rejuvenation.

Full article by Sylviana Hamdani