Healing Traditions

Balinese and Thai Massages have become all-too familiar, break the monotony with these traditional Malay Treatments Classical Malay Pound What Tropical jungle herbs- such as citronella, lemongrass, kaffir lime, tumeric and tamarind - packaged into a herbal poultice. How The pouch is steamed to release aroma and essential oils, then pressed onto the neck, shoulder and upper back. It is also used to massage the body to stimulate circulation, while the heat encourages detoxification. Try Rasa Asmaradana from CHI, The Spa, Shangri-la's Rasa Sayang & Resort, Penang (www.shangri-la.com); Double Herbal Compress Massage at Sampouton Fish Spa, Petaling Jaya (www.sampuotonspa.com). Traditional Malay Massages What Long, kneading strokes that focus on the muscles, blood flow and pressure points to improve overall well-being. How The tukang urut (masseur) massages oil (common Rue, Kaempferia Galangal or Calamus) onto the body using rhythmic strokes. Some tukang urut can even identify a strained blood vein, treat dislocated joints or sprained wrists. Try Malaysia Urut at Anggun Spa, Hotel Malay, KL (www.hotelmaya.com.my); Malaysia Traditional Massage at Jivahru Spa, Tanjung Rhu Resort (www.tanjungrhu.com.my) and heavenly Spa by Westin, The Westin Hotel Langkawi Kedah (www.westin.com). Pre-/Post - Treatment Drinks What Selected plants and herbs are concocted inti a drink, to be taken before or after your spa session. How Ingredients with healing properties are brewed into a rea. Common choices are ginger and cloves (alleviate indigestion), Tongkat Ali (relieves pain in the bones, headache and stomach ache) and chrysanthemum (improves eyesight). Try Flower teas specially put together by traditional Chinese Medicine consultants at Spa Vilage KL (www.spavillage.com / Kuala Lumpur); Monsoon Drink (ginger, honey and lemon) or Lemongrass Drink at Samadhi Spa, Japamala Resorts, TIoman Island ( www.japamalaresorts.com); Ubat Periuk (a herbal tonic) at Spa Village at Pangkor Laut, Pangkor Island, Perak (www.spavillage.com /pangkorlaut.)