Most people are familiar with massage, even though there are several different kinds of massage—sports massage, deep-tissue massage, and several others. In this article, we’re going to cover all the specifics of a much less familiar massage treatment – table shower massage.
What is a table shower massage you may ask?
An Asian table shower massage often referred to as a Vichy shower, is a waterproof table comparable to a massage table but with drainage for water, with shower heads above it.
The most common design is for 5-7 shower heads fed by a single long tube positioned over the bed that showers down onto the spa visitor. The water pressure is often pretty high but can be adjusted to each person’s preference.
The Asian table shower treatment doesn’t simply splash water over the body for a massage therapist to work on a clean client. Although it also works well to cleanse the body and open the pores, its main objective is to improve relaxation and reduce stress.
You will disrobe during a table shower massage and lie down on a padded table. Most hydrotherapy spas offer disposable underwear if you’re uncomfortable being completely naked.
The therapist will sometimes use a handheld shower head to rinse the client’s body. A diverter, usually on the side of the bed, controls water pressure and temperature. You can change the flow of each showerhead independently, just as you would with any other standard showerhead.
Many massage parlors that employ this form of hydrotherapy fondly pair table showers with manual massage therapy.
Shower massages are said to be beneficial for the skin and muscles, as the warm water and massage can help to loosen and relax the muscles; they are typically shorter than traditional massages, as the therapist does not need to massage oils into the skin.
If you are considering getting a shower massage, ask about the spa’s policies and procedures beforehand. Some spas may require booking appointments in advance, while others may allow walk-ins.
Be sure to also ask about the cost of a shower massage, as prices can vary depending on the spa and location.
Brief History of Table Showers
Although the history of table showers is uncertain, it’s worth noting that the name “Vichy shower” comes from Vichy, France—a town with a long tradition of hydrotherapy. Though it gained popularity in Asia, this type of massage likely originated in Europe.
Hydrotherapy massages eventually made their way to the United States in the late 1990s, becoming popular in cities with large Asian populations, such as Los Angeles and New York City.
While shower massages are now common in many parts of the world, they are still most popular in Asian countries.
Modern table shower massages are said to have many physical and mental benefits.
Physically, table shower massages can help to promote circulation, ease muscle tension, and improve the appearance of the skin.
The shower massage spa treatment is completed as follows:
Backwash
Table showers usually begin with the client lying face down, so the massage therapist can start with a gentle massage. The pressure of the water on the table can be increased or decreased depending on your preference. Before beginning the shower table massage, the massage therapist will adjust the water temperatures to your liking. The therapist uses a loofah or rough mitts to gently yet thoroughly massage the customer’s back once all of the back skin has been moisturized or wet. This promotes lymphatic circulation and functions in the same way as body scrubs or salt scrubs.
Turn over
After the therapist has finished with your back, they will ask you to turn over and continue the shower massage on your front. The process is repeated across the front of your body and face. Occasionally, you’ll need to rotate to one side while taking a shower table because water must flow through all parts of your body.
Final Rinse And Drying Off
Once the shower massage is complete, you will be rinsed with clean water to remove all the soap before being given a final clean towel. After this, you can get dressed and leave the room.
Water Temperature
The temperature of the water may be changed using the controls in much the same way as a regular shower. Based on your therapy, you can change it from hot to warm to chilly as needed.
During your treatment, depending on the therapy you’ve selected, gallons of hot, warm, or cold water will be sprayed over your body. And the temperature can be adjusted at any time during the session if you wish.
Additional Services at Table Shower Spas
Table shower massages are often done in combination with other spa services. For example, many table shower spas also offer full-body scrubs, saunas, and steam rooms. These additional services can further promote relaxation and help improve the skin’s health.
If you are interested in trying a table shower procedure, be sure to research the spa beforehand to ensure that it is reputable and clean.
Table Shower Benefits
Like traditional body massages, shower massages are said to have a number of benefits, both physical and mental.
Physically, table shower massages can help to promote circulation, ease muscle tension, and improve the appearance of the skin.
Mentally, table shower massages are said to be relaxing and can help to reduce stress levels.
- Relaxation
Seasoned table shower massage might provide the same level of relaxation as other types of massage. After a year of table shower massage, expect unrivaled peace and tranquility. Because it mixes hydrotherapy with typical kneading, shower massage provides a different level of relaxation than traditional hydrotherapy.
You can have a relaxing experience at the table shower spa as the massage therapist gives you a kneading massage with pressurized water. The water used in this therapy also has some cleansing effects on both the body and mind, leaving you feeling renewed and purified.
- Improved Circulation
During the procedure, alternate between warm and cold showers to improve blood circulation. You will enjoy many advantages if you combine great kneading with this treatment. A hot splash is usually the first step in this technique. Request a chilly shower when your session is complete. The gradual increase in temperature from the heated water will cause your blood vessels to expand, and then the following cold bath will make them stronger as they shrink.
- Detoxification
Not only does hydrotherapy have detoxification and stress relief benefits, but it is also good for the mind. The water effect combined with chakra sprinkles provides complete detoxification, relieving you from negative energy and enabling positive energy to overwhelm your body. The therapy also clears the mind, allowing you to concentrate and be creative.
- Overall Sense of Well-Being
The main advantage of this treatment is that it covers the entire body. The session begins with a warm bath in spas, followed by a full-body wash to remove dead skin cells from the body before the kneading. This treatment can be carried out alone, with mud wrap, or any other activity.
Always check the beauty parlor’s offerings before committing to a service to ensure you get what you need. However, one advantage of choosing a massage that includes a shower is that the warm water will help your muscles relax and open up your pores so that your skin can more easily absorb the oil.
Conclusion
A shower table massage will leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed. The light pressure on your muscles and joints during an Asian massage with a table shower relieves the discomfort and knots from your body until you feel revitalized. It’s one of the most incredible ways to unwind.
