Discover the benefits of massage with Chinese pindas –

(Ernani Mesquita/)

There are days when only a massage is able to save me from the tensions accumulated in my back. If the same thing happens to you, I suggest trying the massage with Chinese pindas. Ever heard of it? For me it was still new until a few days ago, when I submitted myself to the technique – and it was very rewarding: I ended the 1h30 session with a delicious feeling of physical and mental relaxation.

How it happens: the pindas – small bundles of natural fiber (cotton or linen) stuffed with sea salt (or coarse), aromatic herbs and spices – are placed at strategic points for shiatsu and acupuncture. The objective: “Disperse the stagnant energy and, with that, dissolve the points of tension”, explains massage therapist Katia Salles, from Spa Jardim da Serra, in São Pedro (SP).

Before being placed on the skin, the pindas are heated to enhance the therapeutic effects – the heat causes the herbs and spices to release their actives and aromas. The touch is pleasant and promotes a slight exfoliation when the massage therapist uses the bundles in circular and sliding movements. The more vigorous maneuvers stimulate the metabolism and tone the muscles.

– (Ernani Mesquita/)

Massage has an oriental origin, but is part of Ayurvedic – traditional Indian medicine that applies pindas with the therapeutic purpose of relieving symptoms of various diseases and stimulating the body’s natural defenses. The most used aromatic herbs are lavender (lavender), chamomile, jasmine, rose, orange tree, lemongrass and cinnamon. And the combinations can have both a relaxing effect and a totally toning effect and, in this case, indicated for those with a tendency to depression or for those moments of low mood and disposition.

As the pindas are personalized, at the end of the session, the massage therapist suggested that I take mine home: “They can be opened and the filling used for a foot soak.” And, of course, I already put the idea into practice! Because taking care of our well-being is never too much!