Following intensive training with certified specialist Christine Clinton, Four Seasons has launched a Cancer Care Massage at its two Bali spas: the all-new Healing Village Spa at Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay, and Sacred River Spa at Four Seasons Sayan.

In a first for Indonesia, a dozen therapists from both spas completed training along with regional spa director Luisa Anderson – herself a former oncology nurse who has seen first-hand the side effects of cancer treatments, and how massage can improve quality of life.

The therapists were paired with women living with breast cancer known as “Bali Pink Fighters”, a support group of the Bali Pink Ribbon Foundation.

The Pink Fighters then participated in massage trials for the hands-on part of the two-week training and shared their personal cancer stories.

“It was a very emotional training experience,” said Anderson, who is based at Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay.

“The therapists were so touched by their connection with the ladies from the foundation, and the participants were grateful to be touched both physically and emotionally through massage – something the rest of us take for granted, but which they haven’t had access to until now.”

Anderson said many spas don’t offer massage to those touched by cancer as there is a misconception that massage can spread the disease.

“In fact, massage can have a huge impact on treating the side effects of cancer treatment and improving quality of life – as long as there are appropriate training and protocols in place,” she said.

“Plus it’s been clinically proven to improve immune function, reduce pain and enhance sleep.”

The Four Seasons training followed the Standards Authority for Touch in Cancer Care (SATCC) – launched by industry veteran Sue Harmsworth in 2020 and recognised as the national standard in the UK and Ireland for spas, salons and therapists.

Available as a 60- or 90-minute experience, the Cancer Care Massage uses bespoke oils to soothe dry or radiation-irritated skin, release scar tissue and provide lymph support.

A 60-minute treatment costs £94 (US$129, €107), while a 90-minute massage costs £117 (US$160, €134), both excluding taxes.

It’s a personalised experience and recommended at any stage during the cancer journey – pre-treatment, during treatment or rehabilitation – to soothe the nervous system, and increase the sense of calm and emotional support.

Before the first session, therapists conduct an in-depth consultation to find out the guest’s type of cancer, treatment and side effects.

They then adjust the massage including body position, bed set-up, pressure and technique.

The Cancer Care Massage is the first step towards comprehensive self-care programmes being launched at Four Seasons Resorts Bali in 2021, led by resident wellness experts.

The retreats will cater for people at various stages of the cancer journey, incorporating sleep therapy, chromotherapy, sound healing, touch therapy, energy rebalancing, yoga and meditation and good nutrition.

“Our intention is to complement and support cancer treatment plans with programmes centred around mindfulness, healthy lifestyle and nutrition,” Anderson explained.

“We’ve expanded and reconceived our two spas and are proud to offer a much deeper level of holistic wellbeing than ever before.”