Filipino Hilot massage with banana leaves
Before Western medicine became popular in the Philippines, people were treated complementarily by albularyo and manghihilot. Albularyo dealt with herbal medicine, while manghihilot’s specialized in healing massages. The word Hilot means massage.
The art of Hilot massage dates back to 300 years B.C. and it was passed down from one generation to the next. It was required from the trainees that they demonstrate a talent for detecting blockages in the body that cause irregular flow of energy. With increased awareness of how ancient healing methods are helpful in restoring harmony and homeostasis in the body, Hilot massage has become appreciated again for its exceptional effectiveness. Currently, Hilot is the most popular massage in the Philippines, and in many parts of Asia it is offered as an effective therapeutic and relaxation technique along with Ayurveda, shiatsu and reflexology.
Traditional Hilot treatments combine deep massage and restoration of harmony and balance in our body. Hilot massage not only alleviates negative effects of stress, but it also is rejuvenating. Carried out by an experienced therapist, it can be a real help in treatment of many diseases, boosts the immune system, relieves pain and stiffness of the neck, back, and spine. It is also recommended for people struggling with problems such as displacements and dislocations of joints, knees, ankles, fingers and metacarpal bones.
The massage begins with gentle movements of the whole hands, which allow the therapist to detect the sources of pain and diagnose the areas of energy imbalance. Then the therapist proceeds with the proper massage, which combines many techniques such as stroking, rubbing, pressure and even slow strikes to remove blockages in the body. The massage of specific points located on the feet, hands or face stimulates body organs connected with energy channels and in response they trigger a chain of positive biochemical reactions in the body.
At YA SPA Hilot massage is performed with the use of banana leaves cut into strips and dipped in warm coconut oil. Pulled along the body, they stop in cold spots with weaker flow of energy. Banana leaves have an antiseptic effect and have been used for centuries to support the treatment of numerous diseases, including colds, sprains and dislocations. An important beneficial property of banana plants is the absorption of toxins accumulated in the body. In addition, this plant contains a large amount of polyphenols and flavonoids, as a result of which it has a rejuvenating effect.
If you choose to treat yourself to Hilot massage at YA SPA, we strongly recommend booking at least one and a half, and preferably two hours, to be able to take full advantage of the wealth and benefits of this massage. Of course, it is possible to perform it in a shorter time and the effect will be almost the same, yet … there is a slight difference.
