“How could the Igorots of Northern Philippines endure the cold mountain terrain on bare feet?” you might ask.

Dagdagay, a kind of foot reflexology using two wooden sticks, is what the Igorot and the Ifugao of the Cordilleras practice to relieve their bare feet from tiredness and pain. 

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), using wood and bamboo in massages gives added benefits such as providing deep, consistent pressure to reflex zones and muscle tissues for better relaxation and physical rejuvenation; improving blood circulation and lymphatic drainage to flush toxins from the body; reducing tension and pain in areas like shoulders, back and legs; and loosening stiff joints and improving flexibility among athletes and people with limited mobility.

In Japan, ao-dake-humi, a traditional bamboo foot stimulator, is used to stimulate reflex zones in the feet, which can relieve constipation, cold sensitivity and lower urinary tract symptoms.

Fortunately, those living in Manila no longer need to go to the Cordilleras or Japan to experience the healing properties of bamboo.

Lian Oriental Spa, the first and only branch of its kind at the second floor of Seascape Village, Pasay City, specializes in Signature Warm Bamboo Massage, a unique massage experience where warm bamboo sticks are used to apply deep pressure, releasing muscle tension and promoting relaxation. According to the spa, this soothing treatment enhances blood circulation, eases stress and revitalizes the body.

According to NIH, warmed bamboo sticks are used to knead and roll over muscles, breaking down knots, reducing tension and alleviating pain in areas like the back, shoulders and legs, thereby promoting deep muscle relaxation.

Thanks to its location by the Manila Bay, sea breeze flows smoothly and adds to the healing atmosphere of Lian Oriental Spa, which has eight therapy rooms that can be shared by couples or groups of three to four. 

The Signature Warm Bamboo Massage starts with a warm footbath to cleanse and release tension from the feet. Next, using your choice between the spa’s own ginger or almond oil, the treatment commences with a hand massage at the back, concentrating on the areas and using soft, medium or hard pressure you specified in a health checklist and questionnaire you answered prior to the treatment. The therapist also routinely checks if the pressure is okay.