There are five Kenko’s in Bali, two of which are in
Ubud and the other three in the Kuta/Legian area. I chose
the one situated on Jalan Monkey Forest in Ubud for my reflexology
treatment. The medium sized building is big enough to grant
sufficient breathing space to relax whilst on the other hand
affording the feeling of a soothing and cozy atmosphere. Amongst
the countless shops and café’s of Jalan Monkey
Forest, Kenko offers a sanctuary for those seeking some where
to take break, unwind and rest their feet after a days shopping
or sight seeing.
Kenko is a family business originating from Singapore and
a well known affordable high street brand in and across south
East Asia. Locations include Thailand, Malaysia as well as
Indonesia. The Kenko family reflexology is a combination of
Chinese and American methods making it unique. Focusing on
the hands, shoulders, feet and head the techniques involved
in a Kenko massage have been specifically selected to offer
a balanced all round massage, effective at alleviating a wide
variety of ailments such as; muscular tension, head-aches
and migraines, rheumatism, hyper tension, circulatory problems
and stress, which in turn makes this therapeutic technique
a perfect form of relaxation.
The treatment choices at Kenko are fairly specific, with only
some treatments such as the manicures and pedicures available
at certain locations. So if you require these I would advise
you to call in advance to check the availability and make
a reservation. I chose the thirty minute foot massage, which
cost an unbelievable (US) $4, making it ideal for anyone traveling
on a budget. I didn’t book in advance and was shown
straight through from the reception area into the main treatment
area.
The essence of Kenko is the delivery of its unique techniques
whilst ensuring the customers comfort and relaxation. The
massages are performed whilst the client relaxes in the brands
own comfortable reclining chairs, as soft music fades in and
out you may well find yourself doing the same. The seven chair
capacity makes this high street spa a great location for people
traveling in a group or a family to go and have a treatment
together, but with only one screen dividing the reception
and treatment area, don’t go expecting a high level
of privacy. The earth brown walls support pictures of the
massage techniques being performed as well as the signature
charts of the Kenko family, which enables anyone with a keen
interest in massage to understand the pressure points and
the relating body parts.
The massage begins with the feet being submerged in lukewarm
water for the purpose of cleansing and refreshment, which
also naturally relaxes the body. The ankles are then gently
stretched to open the joints and relax the feet. The therapist
then applies scented baby powder (the first time I have ever
had reflexology without the use of oil, also a technique unique
to Kenko) and rubs and shakes the feet to further loosen any
tension. Then following a path of pressure points relating
to the body systems the feet are massaged, probed and shaken
to stimulate circulation and relieve any blockages, thus dispelling
toxins and enhancing the body’s natural defense, the
immune system. Continuing up the legs as far as the knee this
massage is highly effective for the relaxation of the body,
mind and therefore the spirit.
Certain points on my feet were quite sensitive and the masseur
recognized this. He used a reflexology stick and focused on
these areas and as I have stated before, for massage to be
truly beneficial some pain may be involved. If you want a
gentle relaxing massage then clearly state this to your therapist,
but don’t expect the massage to be as effective. The
therapist was clearly well trained and time served but also
had a visible interest in the well being of his clients. After
forty minutes the treatment was over (so I got ten free minutes)
and once again I wished it wasn’t.
I decided to follow straight on with the head, neck, shoulders
and back massage. The unique point about this treatment is
that you don’t get undressed. As all the booths are
next to each other with no real divide there is no privacy
at all but that’s no problem. The massage is just enough
to loosen you up, and it didn’t seem to matter at all
that you are clothed. I felt the therapist still got a hold
of the muscles well and shook and squeezed them, promoting
circulation to the areas. The length of themassage was thirty
minutes and was just enough to do a quick once over, finishing
with a delightful head massage which can definitely help decrease
stress.
I walked on my feet which now felt like clouds over to the
reception area to pay for what was a well needed and gratefully
received massage. My therapist returned with a cup of ginger
and palm sugar tea which I sat and drank whilst enjoying the
sensation of warmth running up and down my legs. I needed
a moment to gather myself as yet more, tense and tired looking
people walked through the door and I found it hard to believe
that just over an hour ago I felt and probably looked that
way. As I thanked the friendly and courteous staff once more
I bounced out the door knowing I would return again soon.
If you have any questions or comments you can write to me
at charlieapsin@hotmail.com
You can read all past articles of Spa Spy at www.BaliAdvertiser.biz
