Four-Handed Massage

Definition: Four-handed massage is a massage where two therapists work on you at the same time, mirroring each others' movements. For instance, both your legs or arms are being massaged at the same time. One therapist works on the right side of your back while the other works on the left.

When done well, four-handed massage feels like you are completely enveloped in sensation and can be quite a wonderful experience. To synchronize, one therapist takes the lead and the other follows, but it should feel like they're doing the same thing simultaneously. It helps if they have a similar style and "touch" and have worked together before.

Four-handed massage comes out of the Ayurvedic tradition, where it is called abhyanga.

Four-handed massage is trendy and has been added to spa menus at many resort spas. (Some even have eight-handed massage.) In that setting you are less likely to get therapists who have worked together before. For a more authentic experience, get it at a spa that specializes in Ayurvedic therapies, like Elemental Embrace in Canada.