Traditional Balinese Massage at Nada Spa Garden

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Even though massage services are readily available throughout Bali, they are not all the same and practitioners are not inter-changeable. I was specifically looking for an experienced masseuse who evoked maternal energy. Most centres in Bali have younger women who look good and appeal to a tourists or non-regulars. If energy is important to you, make sure you select the right person- and because there are many from which to choose, you can afford to be fussy if you really know what you need.

If you are looking for a hands-on healer whose energy resonates with you, take the time to look at the literature at the front of the centre. The reason that I was drawn to Nada Spa Garden at Lovina Beach was because they do not offer every service under the sun. That indicates that they are specialists and are honest about it; and that they have really given thought to the type of healing service they want to give. 'Balinese Chakra Healing' was described in energetic terms, which spoke volumes: it stated that they consciously work with energy and that energy healing would naturally come into play with their more mainstream massage services too.

Even though massage is a 'physical treatment', energy is naturally exchanged. Traditional Balinese Massage is gentler than the remedial or therapeutic style that we have come to know in the West. Traditional Balinese Massage allows your subtle energy fields to adjust and respond to a balancing treatment, rather than the 'no pain-no gain' approach which can cause unrest, distress and even damage if you do have blocks or have been through emotional upheaval.



To get maximum benefit from a massage-energy re-balance, get to know the 'inspiration' or guide with whom the practitioner is working. Many practitioners may not even be completely conscious of their guiding spiritual forces, but take note of the energy signatures around them. I was very aware that Quan Yin was leading my healing holiday, and more so than just 'an older woman', I was looking for someone who resonated with Quan Yin's particular feminine essence. Once at Nada, my feet just took over and I was standing in the right place at the right time, for the right treatment.



Nada Garden Spa is in Jalan Kartika which is the main street for spas, massages and healings at Lovina Beach. Here, they are centres rather than shops and tend to offer services on 'the healing side' rather than just the standard array of beauty boutique services. They are also characterised by: the inclusive use of aromatic oils, scents and creams which is an integral part of Balinese healing (rather than using them as 'optional extras'); private rooms instead of designated spaces; and outdoor gardens or natural settings. Most importantly, these centres are announced by time-honoured rituals, offerings and integrated displays of gods and guides who are included in the healing process itself.

Nada is posted with a traditional stone-cobbled sign. An arrow led me through a garden gateway or healing portal, which invited privacy, honour and retreat. The sacred frangipani lured with scent and Ganesh reassured me that blocks would be released and resistance overcome. I was greeted by two women, both of whom were available for treatment specials. I chose the elder of the two with clairsentient confidence. As we spoke, I looked across to see a 'welcome temple' honouring both masculine and feminine dualities: Quan Yin and Buddha partnered. Here, balance was understood and the feminine spirit acclaimed.


Nada's massage room is a vibrant green, which is a joyful reminder of the healing power of nature. The confident colour statement created a harmony with the lush green ferns outside, which could be seen and empowered the room itself. The massage was fluid, expert, revitalising and gentle, and worked to clear emotional weight as well as physical heaviness. I looked up and saw a very soft pastel-shaded shadow of Quan Yin behind the masseur's right shoulder, reassuring her movements and touch. Gods and goddesses on the temple table were thanked after the hour-long treatment.



Massage treatments at Nada Garden include:
- Balinese Massage, 1 hour for $10
- Balinese Massage and Herb Scrub, 90 minutes for $15
- Nada Massage (body mask, a stone healing and herbal body scrub), 2 hours for $25
- Stone Massage, 90 minutes for $18
- Foot Massage, 30 minutes for $6.50
- Half-Body Massage, 30 minutes for $6.50
Nada has two single bed-like massage tables in the room which can be used by couples who want to share the experience and employ two masseurs.

The healing service known as Balinese Chakra Healing combines aromatic therapy, Balinese yoga and acupressure technique. In addition, Nada has manicures, pedicures, waxing and 45-minute ear-candling sessions. Many of these services can be experienced in the Gold Package for $30 (Balinese Massage, Facial and Pedicure/Manicure); or the Silver Package for $22.50 (which consists of a Balinese Massage Facial and Foot Massage).

After your massage at Nada, stay with Balinese tradition and sip a young coconut juice at a nearly warung.



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