Benefits
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Deep Release
Palm, elbow and forearm pressure relaxes the muscles
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Flexibility
Flowing transitions and stretches support ease of movement
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Circulation
Warm oil and rhythmic pressure support circulation
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Exotic Tradition
A long-standing Indonesian massage tradition
About
Traditional Balinese massage comes from the Indonesian island of Bali and combines rhythmic pressure and stretches with warm oil, which is why it is also known as Indonesian massage. The therapist uses the palms, thumbs, elbows and forearms in turn: broad pressure gives way to point work and then to deeper, steadier movements. The Balinese tradition carries traces of Indonesian, Chinese and Indian (Ayurvedic) massage cultures and also makes use of acupressure points.
What happens during the session?
- Warm oil: Warmed coconut oil is applied to the whole body.
- Broad pressure: Rhythmic palm pressure warms the back, shoulders and legs.
- Point work: The thumbs focus on tight spots.
- Deep work: The elbows and forearms work into settled tension in the back, hips and legs, with light stretches linking the movements.
Sessions last 50 or 70 minutes with firm pressure. Because the elbows and forearms are used, the pressure can feel strong; you set the intensity together with your therapist.
Who is it for?
It suits those who enjoy a strong yet flowing massage, love to relax with warm oil and want to experience a massage tradition beyond the familiar. Guests who find classic massage too light often prefer the firm pressure of Balinese massage.
If it is your first massage or you would like softer pressure, we recommend starting with Classic Swedish Massage.
When to be careful
- Pregnancy
- An allergy to coconut or plant oils
- Varicose veins, a clotting disorder or blood-thinning medication
- Osteoporosis or a recent injury
- Open wounds, burns or a skin infection in the treatment area
Balinese or another massage?
- Balinese Mandara Massage: a 50-minute Balinese palace ritual in which two therapists work at the same time, mirroring each other.
- Deep Tissue Massage: less about oil and rhythm, more about slow work on the deeper muscle layers.
- Harmony Massage: our 70-minute signature ritual combining Balinese palm pressure with Swedish strokes and Ayurvedic head work.
After your session
- Wait a few hours before showering so the coconut oil can absorb into your skin.
- Areas worked with the elbows and forearms may feel slightly tender the next day.
- Drink plenty of water during the day.
About Traditional Balinese Massage
What is Balinese massage?
Balinese massage is a traditional massage from the Indonesian island of Bali. It is given with warm coconut oil: the therapist uses the palms, thumbs, elbows and forearms for rhythmic pressure and links the movements with light stretches. The result is a massage that feels both strong and flowing.
Which oil is used in Balinese massage?
In keeping with tradition, warmed coconut oil is used. If you are allergic to coconut or plant oils, please let us know when you book.
What is the difference between Balinese and Balinese Mandara massage?
Traditional Balinese massage is given by one therapist and lasts 50 or 70 minutes. In Balinese Mandara massage, two therapists work at the same time with mirrored, synchronised movements; this 50-minute session is often chosen for special occasions.
Does Balinese massage hurt?
The pressure is firm and can feel strong where the elbows and forearms are used, but it should not hurt. Tell your therapist as soon as you are uncomfortable; the pressure is adjusted together throughout the session.
How long does a Traditional Balinese Massage session take?
A Traditional Balinese Massage session takes 50 or 70 minutes. You can choose the duration that suits you when booking.
Who is Traditional Balinese Massage suitable for?
Traditional Balinese Massage is suitable for exotic massage experience seekers, those preferring deep pressure, warm-oil enthusiasts and guests curious about other massage traditions. Please let us know before your appointment if you are pregnant, have had recent surgery or have a chronic condition.
Which areas does Traditional Balinese Massage focus on?
The treatment focuses on back, shoulders, hips and legs. You can agree your priority areas with your therapist at the start of the session.
What is included in a Traditional Balinese Massage session?
The session includes coconut oil, warm towels and herbal tea.
Where in Istanbul and Izmir can I book Traditional Balinese Massage?
Traditional Balinese Massage is available at the Aqua Plus branches in Bagcilar, Fatih, Sisli, Zeytinburnu, Pendik and Bayrakli. All branches are open seven days a week (10:00 – 22:00 / 23:00); choose the branch nearest to you when booking.
What are the benefits of Traditional Balinese Massage?
Key effects: deep release, flexibility, circulation and exotic tradition. How long the effect lasts varies by person and with regular treatment.
How do I book Traditional Balinese Massage?
You can book online by selecting a branch, date and time slot, or contact the branch directly by phone or WhatsApp. We recommend booking ahead to avoid waiting at peak times.
Where to Get Traditional Balinese Massage
Traditional Balinese Massage is available at all six Aqua Plus branches. Choose the one closest to you; the booking form opens with the branch and service already selected.
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ISTANBUL · BAğCıLAR
Traditional Balinese Massage in Bağcılar
Near: Güneşli, Kirazlı, Yenibosna
M1B metro line (Bağcılar–Kirazlı), the Mahmutbey–Bağcılar axis and the Basın Ekspres connection; metrobus via Yenibosna/Şirinevler.
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ISTANBUL · FATIH
Traditional Balinese Massage in Fatih
Near: Çapa, Aksaray, Vatan
Reachable via the T1 Kabataş–Bağcılar tram (Fındıkzade / Çapa–Şehremini stops) and the M1A metro line (Aksaray).
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ISTANBUL · ŞIşLI
Traditional Balinese Massage in Şişli
Near: Mecidiyeköy, Gayrettepe, Esentepe
The M2 metro (Şişli–Mecidiyeköy), M7 metro (Mecidiyeköy–Mahmutbey) and the Mecidiyeköy metrobus stop are within walking distance.
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ISTANBUL · ZEYTINBURNU
Traditional Balinese Massage in Zeytinburnu
Near: Cevizlibağ, Topkapı, Maltepe Mahallesi
Reachable via the Zeytinburnu M1A metro / T1 tram interchange, the Cevizlibağ metrobus stop and the E-5 highway.
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ISTANBUL · PENDIK
Traditional Balinese Massage in Pendik
Near: Kaynarca, Sapanbağları, Kurtköy
Reachable via the M4 metro line (Kaynarca–Pendik), the Marmaray Pendik station and the D-100 / coastal road.
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IZMIR · BAYRAKLı
Traditional Balinese Massage in Bayraklı
Near: Adalet, Mansuroğlu, Manavkuyu
