What is Moroccan Bath with Massage
A Moroccan bath, also known as a Moroccan hammam or simply a hammam, is a traditional bathing and cleansing ritual originating from Morocco and widely practiced in North Africa and the Middle East. It is known for its relaxing and rejuvenating properties and often incorporates a massage component. Here’s what a Moroccan bath with massage typically involves:
- Steam Room or Sauna: The experience often starts in a steam room or sauna, where the high humidity and heat help to open up the pores, relax the muscles, and prepare the body for cleansing.
- Exfoliation: After spending some time in the steam room, the next step is exfoliation. A special Moroccan black soap or a similar type of soap with natural ingredients is applied to the entire body. This soap is typically made from olive oil and infused with herbs like eucalyptus. It softens the skin and helps to remove dead skin cells.
- Scrubbing: A skilled therapist will use a special exfoliating glove called a “kessa” to scrub the body. The kessa glove is often coarse, which helps in effectively removing dead skin cells and impurities. The scrubbing process can be quite vigorous but is typically not painful.
- Rinsing: After thorough scrubbing, you’ll be rinsed with warm water to remove the soap and dead skin. This step leaves your skin feeling smooth and clean.
- Massage: Many Moroccan bath experiences include a massage as part of the treatment. The massage can vary in style and focus, but it is usually performed using natural oils, such as argan oil, to nourish and hydrate the skin. The massage can be relaxing and therapeutic, targeting areas of tension and promoting relaxation.
- Cool Down: After the massage, you may be given time to cool down and relax. Some hammams offer a cool room or relaxation area with refreshments like herbal tea.
- Optional Additional Treatments: Some hammams offer additional treatments like hair conditioning, facials, or other beauty services as part of the overall experience.
A Moroccan bath with massage is not only a physical cleansing but also a mental and spiritual one, as it provides relaxation and a sense of well-being. It’s a culturally rich and luxurious spa experience that many people find both therapeutic and enjoyable. The specific steps and variations can vary from one spa or hammam to another, so it’s a good idea to inquire about the details when booking a Moroccan bath treatment.
