I recently tried the massage Detox from La Maison du Tui Na in Bordeaux. It is said to promote the elimination of toxins, improve blood circulation, and relieve recurring or even stubborn abdominal tension, such as bloating caused by poor digestion; this Traditional Chinese massage It really took me by surprise. The result? I don't know if I'll go back, but for those of you who might be interested in the’experience (That's the right word, trust me!), here's my story…
When I arrived, I felt a little thrown off by the receptionist, who didn’t quite understand what I was saying (maybe it was because of my Quebec accent?). After exchanging a few gestures and glances, I realized I was supposed to follow her into what appeared to be the room where my one-hour massage would take place. Once inside the room, she used hand gestures to indicate that I should undress. Before leaving, she says to me, « Undress »! While waiting for him to come back (which won't happen!), I'll do as I'm told, sort of..." timidly.
In front of me, on the massage table, are a pair of disposable panties and a bath towel. I assume I’m supposed to take off all my clothes before lying down on the table and covering myself with the towel.
Once I was lying down, the door opened, and imagine my surprise when I turned around to see the person who would be in charge of my detox: it was’a man. Please understand that I have nothing against being massaged by someone of the opposite sex, but I still would have liked to have been warned in advance…
Next surprise ? He doesn't speak French.
So! I'm practically naked, lying on this table, and this man is looking at me while patting himself on the back. He adds: « Back ». I then realize that I'll have to turn around because, yes, by instinct, I started working on the belly… (After all, no one gave me any indication that might have led me to believe otherwise.) As someone who’s a bit modest, what am I supposed to do if I don’t want to end up completely naked in front of him when I turn around? Faced with this “choice” that isn’t really a choice, I go along with it, crossing my fingers that the session or convincing and professional.
In the end, the movements The massage therapist's movements were confident and precise. Please note, if you don't like being in pain—because, yes, I have to admit, I've curled his toes whether you’ve had it more than once, or if you’re modest and like to be able to communicate clearly with your massage therapist, this type of massage is clearly not for you !
Looking back, I don't feel that it had any notable positive or negative effects, but apparently, Chinese doctors recommend doing a Tui Na massage every 20 days to truly feel the benefits and as a form of preventive medicine.
+ : The massage is both refreshing and delicate, alternating between the two. The place is welcoming and relaxing, just as you’d expect from a center like this.
– : We weren’t offered a glass of water—a small gesture that would have seemed particularly appropriate for a detox-style massage. Also, be sure to bring cash, as you won’t be able to pay by card. Finally, we were disappointed by the lack of advice from the staff—for example, about drinking plenty of water after a massage of this type.
Who is this for? : For those who want to detoxify their bodies otherwise, but above all, for a discerning audience, since the experience can be surprising. The price of 70 euros per hour (about 80 U.S. dollars) seems reasonable to us, given the service you receive.
To go further : The House of Tui Na and Facebook: The Home of Tui Na !
