This archive report was first published on 9 August 2019.
On the sun-kissed coast of Mombasa, a new approach to massage therapy is gaining popularity. At the Lotus Health and Relaxation Centre, a team of skilled masseuses has introduced a treatment that combines the ancient wisdom of traditional herbs with the art of massage.
According to Syprose Super, a masseuse at Lotus, the treatment begins with a gentle foot cleansing ritual, followed by a warm cloth filled with steamed herbs from Narok. The herbs, sourced from the region and sun-dried, are then packed in bags and heated to release their medicinal properties.
As the masseuse works their magic, the warm herbs penetrate the skin, soothing the muscles and stimulating blood circulation. The treatment, which takes approximately 90 minutes, is a unique blend of traditional and modern techniques.
But what inspired this innovative approach? Syprose credits the growing demand for wellness tourism in Kenya, which is attracting an increasing number of customers. However, she notes that the industry faces a significant challenge: a lack of skilled labour.
Sam Ikwaye, the Kenya Association of Hotelkeepers and Caterers Coast executive officer, agrees. He points out that the trainings offered in mainstream schools are failing to keep up with the changing trends in the industry.
Ikwaye urges hotels to offer authentic spa products and services to attract more tourists. 'Most hotels offer Thai, Japanese and other kinds of foreign massages but tourists are also looking for authentic African experiences,' he says.
As the demand for unique and authentic experiences continues to grow, it will be interesting to see how the industry evolves. One thing is certain, however: the combination of traditional herbs and natural oils is a winning formula for relaxation and rejuvenation.
