Singapore Beauty Guide » Massage & day spa

Massage at Kedaton spa Ayam Sari Bintan – review

Sylvia — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 09:45:27 +0000

Although I haven’t discussed massages as much as facials, I’m actually a big fan of a regular massage. However, as opposed to facials I’m not so keen on trying out new massages as I find the quality of a massage quite important.

Since I suffer from RSI (repetitive strain injury) a good massage is essential for me as it keeps my symptoms in check. So in Singapore I go for regular massages with my favorite remedial massage therapist. More on this is a subsequent post.

Trying resort spas

However, when I’m away on holiday or for a short break as I am now, I usually try out a new spa. I have had some great massages during these trips. Good examples are a 2.5 ayurvedic massage I had during my yoga retreat in Bali. I also loved my thai massage during a detox retreat I had in Thailaind. I also still remember some cheap but very good massages on the beach that I had in Thailand. I’m currently at Ayam Sari Resort in Bintan and was keen to try out their Kedaton Spa.

As I like a firm massage I selected their javanese massage package which is supposed to be quite firm. The spa itself looks great. A lovely little building surrounded by greenery and very tropical. As is usual with spas like these, the rooms are lovely. They usually have a window overlooking lush greenery adding to the nice relaxed atmosphere of getting a massage.

unfortunately, it is often hit and miss with spas in resorts. If you’re lucky you can get a great massage, but the opposite also happens often.

What is a good massage?

As I get really good massages from my usual therapist my standards are, of course, high. A good therapist will know the tense spots, has special techniques to apply firmness and pressure and can really make a difference in the tenseness of the muscles.

An average therapist on the other hand just goes through a standard routine and doesn’t really pay any attention to the individual body. They are poorly trained so they can never manage quite enough pressure.

Massage at Kedaton Spa

Unfortunately, today I was not in luck. The pressure was not firm enough and the therapist just seemed to go through some standard ineffective strokes that were pleasant but not very effective in releasing tension in the muscles. Such a pity as it’s the rainly season now and it’s raining non-stop. Perfect opportunity for getting several massages!

Conclusion

If you like a calm relaxing massage in a relaxing and beautiful environment then you may enjoy the massages offered here. However, if you need a massage that will treat you tense muscles in a meaningful way, you may want to shop around for another alternative.

PS. I later want back for a ayurvedic facial which was gorgeous! Here they did everything just right!

Beauty tips: 10 point checklist before having your massage

Sylvia — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 00:46:22 +0000

A massage is a wonderful way to relax and reviitalise yourself. Check out these handy tips to get the most out of your massage.

Find out how qualified your masseur is. Has he / she completed recognised training?
What are the massage techniques the masseur specialises in? Can he explain which technique is right for each situation?
What can you keep on whilst having your massage? If a lot of oil is used (for example with ayurvedic massage) you may want to wear as little as possible in order to avoid ruining your clothes.
What kind of oils are used? Some oils can be a touch smelly which may not be a good idea if you have an important appointment afterward.
Check where the masseur starts the massage. This can help you relax as you will know what’s coming.
Did the masseur give you any guidelines as to what you can eat or drink before the massage?
Are you looking for more than just a massage? Check if additional services are offered.
Check how long before the appointment you need to arrive. You may have to fill in a questionnaire and it may be nice to do this in a relaxed way so you can start your massage relaxed.
Check if head massage is part of the treatment. And if so be prepared by bringing a comb!
What does the massage cost? Costs vary and can range from $50 – $120 for a 1 hour massage.

What is the benefit of aromatherapy?

Sylvia — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 04:18:12 +0000

Massage combined with aromatherapy combines the best of both worlds.

Why is massage so good for us?

Massage helps us relax and release stress. It encourages you to quieten down and breathe deeply and slowly. When done correctly it can release the tension in your muscles and even stimulate the brain. This in turn can slow down the heart rate, lower blood pressure and stimulate your digestion and immunity.

While being massaged your body can also release the hormone endorphin, which is a natural pain killer and improves your well-being. It also stimulates circulation and increases the flow of fresh blood which improves the provision of nutrients and oxygen to organs and muscles.

Using aromatherapy with your massage can help intensify your massage experience and can help treat a variety of physical and mental conditions, from skin infections to stress.

How does aromatherapy massage work?

Aromatherapy massage uses long, gentle, sweeping strokes over the entire body, with the purpose of exposing the body to the essential oils and reaping the benefits of it. For the oll you can mix 3-4 drops of essential oil into 10 ml (2 teaspoons) of a neutreal carrier oil such as sweet almond oil.

Alternatively, you can choose one of the many pre-blended oils currently available on the market. Just select the aromas that please you. Many aromatherapists believe that you will be naturally drawn to the oils that will benefit you most.

Some oils that you can try!

Chamomile

Chamomile is known for its calming effect. Use it to soothe headaches and anxiety.

Tea Tree

This works and an antibacterial oil and can be used to treat pimples and cold sores

Rose

Rose also has a soothing effect and is recommended as a treatment for depression.

Rosemary

Works as a stimulator and antiseptic. It can help with all kinds of aches and pains.

Mandarin

Mandarin has a calming and refreshing effect. It can help with digestive problems.

Peppermint

Peppermint is refreshing and helps with indigestion and sickness.

Eucalyptus

Works as a decongestant and helps with colds.

Lavender

One of the all time favorites! Lavender has a calming and balancing effect and can help with stress, colds, headaches and PMS

Sandalwood

Sandalwood has a relaxing effect and is beneficial against stress and treatment of dry skin.

Ylang ylang

This can work as a love potion and boost your sex drive!

Some generals tips for Aromatherapy

For immediate results from aromatherapy try inhaling the steam. Add about 4 drops of your chosen oil to a bowl of hot water, lean over it and cover your head with a towel. Inhale deeply for about 5 minutes.
Place a few drops of your favorite oil on a tissue, so you can inhale it whenever you like.
Don’t treat medical problems yourself with essential oils. Always consult your GP. Also note that some oils may carry risk during pregnancy
Essential oils can be expensive but remember that a little goes a long way!
Don’t apply essential oils to the skin undiluted as they are far too concentrated in that form and can cause inflammation. The only exception is Lavender
Don’t take essential oils internally
Don’t apply oils to areas of broken, inflated or recently scared skin

Enjoy and share your tips below.