sound-bathing massage

WHAT IT IS: This face and body massage combines a variety of techniques (shiatsu, reflexology, remedial, Hawaiian and hot and cold rocks), all set to the dulcet tones of chanting Tibetan monks, plus a little singing bowl and Buddhist cymbals. “People can have trouble surrendering to relaxation – sometimes it won’t happen for them until the treatment is almost over,” says Jeannie Bourke, owner of Sydney’s Venustus. “By listening, we’re symbolically and physically acknowledging our connection to all other living beings, nature and the universe. It’s a type of

energy medicine and it promotes healing.”

WHAT IT FEELS LIKE: The mixed forms of massage stimulate the mind enough to keep busy thoughts at bay, while the hypnotic sounds play away in the background. The therapist also burns a stick of palo santo beneath the massage table, which only fuels the senses further. THE VERDICT: If you still find meditation tricky, the sounds that fill this treatment will suit your sensibility. It’s a fast-track to chill town, so you get to enjoy every one of your 90 minutes. Om Massage, $299,

VENUSTUS, venustus.com.au