What Is Balinese Massage? Technique, Benefits and What to Expect

Balinese massage is one of our most requested therapies at Angkasa, and for good reason: it gives you the relaxation of a Swedish massage and the "worked-on" feeling of something firmer, in one session.

Where it comes from

Balinese massage comes from the traditions of Bali, Indonesia, which draw on Indonesian, Indian and Chinese healing practices. In a spa setting today, it's an oil massage that blends several techniques into one smooth flow.

The techniques

• Palm and thumb pressure — broad, firm pressure using the palms, rather than lots of fingertip work.
• Long flowing strokes — similar to Swedish massage, linking one area to the next.
• Gentle stretches — your therapist may stretch your arms, legs and back.
• Acupressure — pressure on specific points to release tension.
• Skin rolling and kneading — to warm and loosen muscles.

The pace is slower than you might expect, and the pressure is medium to firm, adjusted to you.

Benefits people notice

• A deep sense of relaxation, often with better sleep that night
• Looser shoulders, back and hips
• Feeling "lighter" and more mobile after the stretches
• A calm mind — it's a very rhythmic massage

Like all massage, it's a wellness experience, not a medical treatment. If you have an injury or condition, speak to a doctor first.

Balinese vs Thai vs Swedish

• Balinese vs Swedish: Both use oil and flowing strokes, but Balinese adds firmer palm pressure, acupressure and stretching.
• Balinese vs Thai: Thai massage is done on a mat, in loose clothing, without oil, with much more stretching. Balinese is on a bed, with oil, and the stretches are gentle. See Thai massage: what to expect.

Who it suits

• People who find Swedish too soft and deep tissue too intense
• Anyone with general stiffness from sitting, travelling or stress
• Couples — it's the most popular couple massage at our GK-1 outlet

What to expect at Angkasa

You'll start with a short consultation about pressure and focus areas. The massage is done on a bed with warm oil; you'll be covered with a fresh sheet throughout, with only the area being worked uncovered. Afterwards, take a few minutes, have water and enjoy the steam and shower.

One of our GK-1 guests described her Balinese full-body with Thai balm oil as incredibly relaxing — that's the feeling we aim for every time.

Tips

• Choose 60 minutes for a first Balinese session, 90 minutes if you have time to really unwind.
• Ask your therapist to spend more time on problem areas.
• Avoid a heavy meal for an hour before.

Balinese massage is available at all three Angkasa outlets. Book at GK-1, Sector 29 or Golf Course Road.