Ancient barefoot massage - my antidote to modern-day stress

It's one of the most popular massages at Spa at the Grand - and one of the most expensive - but worth it.

Ashiatsu MassageBuddist monks perfected Ashiatsu Massage or Oriental Bar Therapy hundreds of years ago. The  technique is simple - a therapist suspends himself above your body and uses bare feet to delve deep into your aching muscles. The American Medical Association recognizes Ashiatsu massage as an effective treatment for chronic back and neck pain.

Sound good so far?

"The guest lies on the table, and after a ceremonial cleansing of the feet, the therapist hops on the table and hangs from overhead bars and uses the feet to massage," says Suzie Marquez, creator and director of the Grand Marriott Spa in Point Clear, Alabama. "It's very deep and the pressure covers a wider surface than you can with hands. The effect lasts longer than a regular massage."

As an added bonus (because bonuses are fun) it stimulates the lymphatic system to help your body eliminate toxins, which slows the aging process. Massage instead of Botox - what's not to love about that?

If You Go

The Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage is 80 minutes long and $150US. Add a paraffin wax treatment to your hands or feet for $25US - pure bliss!