After intensive training with certified specialist Christine Clinton,Four Seasons Resorts Bali has recently launched a Groundbreaking Cancer Care Massageat its two spas: the all-new Healing Village Spa at Four Seasons Resort Jimbaran Bay, and Sacred River Spa at Four Seasons Resort Sayan in the foothills of Ubud.
In a first for Indonesia, a dozen therapists from both spas completed training along with Regional Spa Director Luisa Anderson, herself a former oncology nurse who has seen first-hand the side effects of cancer treatments, and how massage can improve quality of life. The therapists were paired with women living with breast cancer known as “Bali Pink Fighters,” a support group of the Bali Pink Ribbon Foundation. The Pink Fighters participated in massage trials for the hands-on part of the two-week training, and shared their personal cancer stories.
There is a misconception that massage can spread the disease. That is why many spas do not offer massage to cancer survivors, guests in active treatment or with a history of cancer. According to Luisa, massage actually can have a huge impact on treating the side effects of cancer treatment and improving quality of life, as long as there are appropriate training and protocols in place. It is clinically proven thatmassageimproves immune function, reducespain and enhances sleep.
One of the Pink Fighters, Sari Ardaniwho was diagnosed with breast cancer in February 2018, took part in the massage trials at Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay. She has had 21 rounds of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, and surgery to remove the tumor. She explained this special massage was so good, very gentle and relaxing. She even felt like having a new body. There areno more lymphatic nodes on her left arm where she had the operation, so the massage really helped with blood circulation on the left side and the tension was released in just a few minutes. The therapist also did some techniques to boost her metabolism.
The Four Seasons training followed the Standards Authority for Touch in Cancer Care, recognised as the national standard in the UK and Ireland for spas, salons and therapists. Available as a 60-minute or 90-minute experience, the Cancer Care Massage uses bespoke oils to soothe dry or radiation-irritated skin, release scar tissue and provide lymph support.
It is a completely personalised experience and recommended at any stage during the cancer journey – pre-treatment, during treatment or rehabilitation – to soothe the nervous system, and increase the sense of calm and emotional support. Before the first session, the therapist conducts an in-depth consultation to find out the guest’s type of cancer, treatment and side effects. They then adjust the massage including body position, bed set-up, pressure and technique.
The Cancer Care Massage is the first step towards comprehensive self-care programs being launched at Four Seasons Resorts Bali in 2021, led by resident wellness experts. The retreats will cater for people at various stages of the cancer journey, incorporating sleep therapy, chromatherapy, sound healing, touch therapy, energy rebalancing, yoga and meditation, and good nutrition.
Menus at Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay have been created in collaboration with certified nutritionist Miles Price (Life Clinic, Hong Kong), and Four Seasons Resort Sayan has launched vegetarian menus inspired by the holistic Sattvic philosophy.
Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay
Jimbaran, Bali
Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan
Jl. Raya Sayan, Sayan, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali