It is perhaps the most doable selfless act –the complete submission of one’s body to the masterful hands of another without any form of protest. It is an hour or so of absolute surrender until one reaches a better state of consciousness as utter relaxation pervades the worn-out body.

A trip to the Island Foot and Body Reflexology in Makati City will give anyone the relaxing experience of a lifetime through an authentic Chinese Therapeutic massage.

Choosing the Foot and Back massage package will entitle you to a 1 hour and 15 minute procedure that will combine Swedish and Foot Reflexology.

While your room is being prepared, you will enjoy a cup of hot jasmine and chrysanthemum tea at the mini café which will help you begin to relax along with the help from the minimalist interiors created by renowned designer, Wilmer Lopez. Then, you will be accompanied to a private room where you will change into a more comfortable robe like a loose cotton kimono. You can now lean back on the cushioned chair and flip channels on their flat-screen TV. The room is pristine clean with minimal design – perfect for a distraction-free massage. It will already seem all too comforting yet the best part of this experience is just about to come.

Your therapist will enter the room to begin the foot spa. Your feet will be soaked gently in warm water and essential oils. Like hundreds of tiny fingers, the bubbles from the heated water will press through every inch of your foot with just the right amount pressure. Simultaneously, you will be given a shoulder rub and your therapist, though a stranger, will become your merciful best friend who will know exactly what you need.

After the 30 minute foot soak, your feet will be patted dry and will be rubbed with aromatic oils. The smell of lavender and mint will fill the room. A form of acupressure called foot reflexology will be applied on certain points of the feet which are said to represent zones or energy channels. Two towels will be wrapped around each foot for more warmth.

The back massage will then follow. Oil will be rubbed down on your bare back with enough pressure to relax the tense muscles. Thighs and calves will be stretched – almost similar to Pilates which lengthens the muscles of the body. A warm rubdown with a moist towel will finish off the massage.

You will leave the Island Spa feeling relaxed, a little healthier, calmer, maybe taller, and even happier. Its nurturing sensation heightens the holistic feeling of being alive.

Price range for massage services is P550 to P1,200 pesos. Island Spa is located at the 2nd Level of Jupiter Place 136 Jupiter St. Bel-Air, Makati City and at the 5th level of Rustan’s Makati. 899-1234, 751-8296.