Right before leaving for Australia last December, one of the last minute things on the to-do list is to get a massage. Reason behind that is the long plane ride ahead and getting a bit of rest and relaxation would do me good.

Cathy Turvill, co-owner of Nurture Spa Village, had suggested that I pay them a visit in Tagaytay and try out one of their newest spa treatments, the Nilaib Spa Treatment.

According to Spa Manager Chuchi Silva, this spa treatment is actually developed by and unique to Nurture Spa.

And since I’ve only been to Nurture Spa Village once and was impressed, I had readily agreed and scheduled a trip to Tagaytay and spend a day there.

Checking in a couple room, we were greeted by two (2) masseuses trained by Spa Professionals and a cozy room with carefully made up spa beds. The warmth and hospitality plus the over-all peaceful atmosphere had helped eased us into a calming and relaxing spa experience.

After changing into our robes, our feet enjoyed a little treat via a Foot Wash which involves soaking our feet in warm water with rose petals and essential oils. Then scrubbed and exfoliated using organic liquid wash with crushed corn kernels.

After the foot wash, our feet were further treated to a Philippine foot massage technique called Dagdagay, a traditional foot massage which hails from the Mt. Province region.

Dagdagay, as Chuchi had explained to me, uses Bamboo sticks that are rubbed between the toes, targets pressure points, pinching/scratching, basically, to stimulate sensations and blood circulation in the feet area.

Settling face down on the bed, I notice that aromatherapy is also at work. They’ve prepared a water with flowers and essential oils in a pot which is placed directly where you will be facing. You won’t miss the scent. Definitely. This helped in the relaxation part of the treatment.

Then comes the massage. I was first treated to an amazing Hilot massage. “Hilot” is a Filipino word which directly translates to “massage”. It’s a traditional Filipino massage technique popular for its medicinal effect. Not only do your muscles feel relaxed, it actually also helps in making you feel better from an ailment like fever, cough and colds, etc.

Thoroughly relaxed, the treatment’s not over. It’s time for the “main event” — the Nilaib Treatment. And it’s time to take the lid off the basket that holds the stars of the show, the steam pouches.

Chuchi informed me that the steam pouches consist of fine sand, lemongrass, essential oils (for aches & pains), and Sambong (local herb) sealed in a fabric pouch then wrapped in banana leaves. They’re kept in a bamboo steamer until the desired temp.

Seemingly using the same idea as “hot stones”, these steam pouches are then laid on targeted points on the nape, shoulders, back, arms and legs. Note that instead of lying face down on the spa bed, you’ll be lying on there face up so the experience will be more comfortable — comfortable enough that if you’re the type who falls asleep during massages like I am then you surely will.

The treatment basically helps in relieving stress. The components of the treatment have medicinal attributes that will help deal with certain health concerns like colds and such. Even the banana leaf is known for its antibacterial ingredient.

Capping the treatment off is a refreshing cup of herbal tea. This is all part of the detoxifying aspect of the massage. My nose actually felt congested and they simply explained that it’s a normal occurrence after getting a massage. It’s a sign that the body is undergoing detoxification (and that you did have a proper massage).

After the treatment, I’m grateful that Chuchi had taken the time to sit with me and answer a few of my questions regarding the Nilaib treatment. She tells me that it is recommended for individuals who are looking for a spa treatment that can help in relieving flu, colds and is even great for post-pregnancy concerns.

The Nilaib Spa Treatment is exclusive to Nurture Spa Village with locations in Tagaytay and Abe’s Farm in Pampanga. The whole treatment costs Php 1,800.00 (roughly around $36).

Photos © 2009 Sasha Manuel