When you think of relaxation and releasing tension, do snakes come to mind? Probably not.
However, for some folks in Indonesia, the slithering reptiles are the premier choice for relieving stress. AFP reports that Bali Heritage Reflexology and Spa in Jakarta, Indonesia currently offers a 90-minute snake massage for a mere $43.
Professional masseuses are swapped out for six-foot pythons (with taped mouths to keep them from biting) who are draped along the customer’s neck, stomach, and back. Two masseuses are on standby to keep the snakes from coiling around the customer’s body.
While the spa says it gets many foreign visitors seeking a thrill through the snake treatment, it also receives a handful of guests seeking to get over their life-long fear of snakes.
“I used to be afraid of snakes, I had a phobia. But after getting this treatment several times, the phobia started going away and now I like snakes,” said Tilukay, an accountant, who has had three of the sessions.
Um, yeah, I’m good on that one.
If you thought snake massages were insane, you’ll be surprised to learn that this isn’t even the wackiest item offered on the menu. Bali Heritage is home to 300 treatments, including massages performed by a masseuse in a gorilla suit and beer-filled bathtub massages.
Oddly enough, this isn’t the only place offering massages with snakes. Israel, Russia and Thailand have led the pack in reptile relaxation.