What is Bamboo Massage
Bamboo massage may be available in some spas, where a client is massaged with a massage tool made from bamboo.
It is one of the alternative massage techniques that utilizes bamboo cane stalks to roll and knead the tissues.
How is Bamboo Massage Performed?
Typically, bamboo massage utilizes 4 to 15-inch bamboo stick to apply pressure, kneading, and stroking techniquesin order to stretch the fascia in various directions. Longer and thicker sticks are used for gliding strokes, whereas smaller and thinner sticks are used for more detailed work. In general, longer and thicker sticks are used for massaging large muscles such as back and thighs, while shorter and thinner sticks are used for small muscles such as hands and feet.
Prior to applying bamboo massage, the bamboo sticks might be warmed in a heating pad. This concept is similar to the hot stone massage.
Some practitioners combine elements of shiatsu, traditional Japanese massage, where bamboo cups or the ends of the stalks are used to stimulate specific acupuncture pressure points. With Thai massage, sticks are heated and essential oils are used during bamboo massage. Bamboo sticks may also be used in reflexology to apply pressure to hands or foot reflex points.
While bamboo massage can be beneficial for the clients, it is also beneficial for the therapists, particularly for those concerned about their own hands. Since the bamboo cane replaces the hand of the therapist, the bamboo massage technique allows the therapists to deliver a deeper, firmer massage, while minimizing strain on their hands and fingers.
About Bamboo
Bamboo (also called take in Japanese, chu in Chinese) has been known to representdurability, fertility, youth, prosperity and serenity in Asia.
Long before paper was invented, the Chinese documented their history on thin bamboo sheets. Bamboo has been used in a wide variety ways since ancient China. It has been utilized in vessels, bridges, floors, furniture, musical instruments, decorations, artwork, gutters, masts, utensils, agricultural tools, clothing, bedding, and towels. The bamboo has also been used as medicine. The traditional Chinese medicine herb, known as a Bambusae Caulis (bamboo shavings: also called zhu ru in Chinese or chikujo in Japanese), has been used to ease symptoms such as fever, vomiting, and phlegm. Kampo herbal formulas such as Untanto (Warm the Gall Bladder Decoction) contains Bambusae Caulis, as one of the medicinal ingredients.
Golden Bamboo (Phyllostachys vivax McClure cv. Aureocaulis), Chenshan Botanical Garden in Shanghai
Characteristics of Bamboo Massage
Relaxation ****
Therapeutic *
Intensity: Mild
Lubrication: Yes
Undressing: Yes
Tip: Likely