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Jamu massage combines massage and botanical therapies, originating from Central Java and inspired by Asian influences. It uses various techniques to induce relaxation and incorporates symbolic gestures. The massage ends with a flower petal and the words “peace in your heart and in the world.” Benefits include stress reduction and improved circulation.
Jamu massage is a form of bodywork that combines the benefits of massage and botanical therapies. In fact, the word Jamu translates from Indonesian to mean herbal remedies used internally and externally. While this type of massage is considered to be rooted in Balinese traditions, its techniques are inspired by several Asian influences encountered along the Indonesian trade routes of the 1500s. From a western world perspective, jamu massage is relatively new in the family of massage therapies .
Jamu massage, as it is known today, originally originated from Central Java. However, it was only reserved for those deemed worthy of royal treatment. In fact, it was available to the common person only if one had the good fortune to be a guest of the palace. Gradually, this form of massage became accessible to the general population and is offered today by Indonesian village healers. Then, as now, jamu massage is not a service to barter or barter, but is considered an offering of love and is expected to be received in the same spirit.
Jamu massage integrates many different techniques designed to invoke deep relaxation in the recipient. Muscles and connective tissue are stimulated by a variety of movements, including percussion, vibration and a series of long stretches. Finer motions are also used along acupressure points, such as thumb pacing, skin rolling, knuckle clenching, and squeezing. As the method is steeped in herbal healing traditions, a scented botanical oil of the client’s choice will accompany some of these movements. However, not at first; the massage always begins with a dry compression massage to increase circulation and aid in cellular detoxification.
It doesn’t take much imagination to believe that these massage techniques induce a deep sense of inner peace and relaxation. However, these movements are not without deliberate meaning. For example, a massage session always starts and ends on the person’s right side, as a reminder that you always come back to where you started. Similarly, long massages are symbolic of the never-ending cycle of life. The skin-squeezing and rolling motions draw environmental toxins out of hiding, while the folding of the hands represents holding firmly to one’s destiny and spiritual course.
A jamu massage is as much a visual experience as a physical one and is, again, presented with a purpose. The room is filled with a floral scent and brightly colored fabrics. The first is due to the abundance of flower petals, usually red or pink. Each element is meant to stimulate all the senses and act as a bridge to connect mind, body and the natural world.
The massage session ends with gentle tapping massage movements on each medial limb. This is followed by a relaxing neck and scalp massage, as well as acupressure on the face. Finally, the masseur tucks a single flower petal behind the client’s ear while imparting the words, Om suasti astu, or “peace in your heart and in the world.”
The health benefits of jamu massage can vary from person to person. Certainly, the relaxation it brings can significantly reduce stress. Better circulation is another primary benefit. For some people, this method of massage can invoke spiritual awareness and a heightened sense of wholeness and well-being. However, while a visit to Java may garner a love offering in the form of a jamu massage from the village healer, a session in the US and other parts of the world likely comes with a fee.
