Sara Taher visits Atarmia Spa to try out a Quiro signature deep tissue massage that uses golf balls.
The promise
This unique treatment vows to do away with muscular aches and pains, while setting you off into a world of relaxation. It is particularly aimed at relieving sports injuries.
Step-by-step
We begin the 90-minute procedure with a very relaxing foot wash and rub. Our therapist cleans our feet with bath salts and various products that scrub away dead skin and soothe our soles. After a few moments we proceed to the massage table where we lay face down. We are covered with towels and our attendant begins by uncovering each leg at a time and massaging it; first with her hands, then with the golf balls.
The golf balls are dipped in oil and the therapist cups them in her hands while they glide over the body effortlessly. After our legs are done, from the feet up to the glutes, she moves on to our back. The golf balls are particularly effective at relieving pressure around the shoulders – where most people carry their tension. The movements are deep and circular and penetrate well into our muscles.
Once the entire area of our back is done, the therapist moves to each arm. The golf balls relieve a lot of tension in the forearms and hands. Our therapist is very intuitive and notes when a particular area seems to be troublesome, giving some extra attention to it and ensuring deep relaxation. After both arms are done, we turn over. Once again, the massage begins on the legs before working up the body to the neck, face and head. We particularly loved the treatment on our face and on the scalp. The experience sent us into a blissful state of light sleep.
The results
We were very sad when the experience was over. It was extremely soothing and each muscle felt like it was entirely at ease. Leaving the room, we noted a profound sense of relaxation
and a tinge of euphoria.
Pros
This treatment will get rid of aches and pains that you weren’t even aware of. The gentle, dextrous movements of the golf ball along the muscles is very soothing, and seemed to induce a general deep easing of tension all over our body.
Cons
The massage is so relaxing there’s a very good chance you’ll fall asleep and you might not want to move once you are done.
5/5
The Quiro massage is Dhs710 for 90 minutes. Atarmia Spa, Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas, Saadiyat Island (02 407 1107).
