Who gives the massages
In 2018 Cecile Carreres completed a body massage course at REEVA International Spa School in Bali. In France she ran her own practice, Les mains sages ("the wise hands"), in the centre of Albi, in the south of the country. She now lives in Mindo.
She works on her own terms: she sets her prices and her hours, and you book with her, not with Portal de Paz. Her profile has her WhatsApp and what she charges.
The four styles, and how to choose
- Balinese massage: long strokes with oil, firm thumb pressure on points along the body and gentle stretches. A good middle ground if you are not sure what you want.
- Shiatsu: Japanese pressure work with thumbs and palms, plus stretches. Traditionally no oil and you stay dressed. Firmer and more active than the others.
- Abhyanga: the warm oil massage of Ayurveda, India's traditional medicine. A lot of oil, slow rhythmic strokes, very quiet.
- Aromatherapy massage: a soft, flowing massage with essential oils mixed into the oil. The gentlest of the four.
After a long hike, Balinese or shiatsu get into tired legs. If you want to switch off completely, abhyanga or aromatherapy. If you cannot decide, tell Cecile how your body feels and let her pick.
What happens when you arrive
Sessions are in the private session room at Portal de Paz, a separate space from the bamboo hall where the group classes happen. Cecile will ask what you are after and whether anything hurts before she starts. For the oil styles you undress to your comfort level and are covered with a sheet except where she is working.
The afternoon rain in Mindo usually arrives around three and is loud on a roof. Plenty of people book for exactly that hour.
Before you book
Eat lightly beforehand, and if you have been out on the trails, a shower first is appreciated. Ask Cecile how long each session runs when you message her.
How to book a massage in Mindo
Message Cecile on WhatsApp from this page or her profile. Say which style you want, or that you want her advice, and the day you are in town. If you are only in Mindo for one or two nights, write early: the same afternoon is not always possible.
You pay Cecile directly. Portal de Paz is the room and the neighbours; it does not take bookings or payments for her.
