The height of the COVID-pandemic lasted for nearly two years-and in that time, many spas and massage parlours shuttered, as people avoided anything that required close contact.

One of my regular spots for a good massage, HealthLand in Bandar Puteri Puchong, did not make it either; the lot now housing 7-Eleven’s flagship store. But just a few doors down, a new wellness centre called Ayu Borneo opened a couple of months ago, so I decided to check them out.

Upon entering, guests are greeted by the sight of soothing green plants, wood, and floral motifs. Front desk service was friendly, and I was quickly ushered in after picking their Signature Oil Massage. which is meant to refresh tired muscles, alleviate stress, and improve blood circulation using classic strokes based on the Thai massage technique.

Some people don’t like the stretching and pulling involved in Thai massage, so they also offer a ‘Signature Urutan Malaysia’ (Malaysian massage).

If you haven’t been to a local massage parlour, the therapist will typically wash and scrub your feet before you’re taken to a private room, where you’ll have to change into disposable underwear. Depending on your type of massage, you’ll either have to disrobe, or wear a pair of loose shirt and pants provided by the establishment.

The session was good! My therapist applied just the right amount of pressure, helping to undo some knots from my shoulders which are always hunched up over a desk all day Some people are averse to pain, so don’t be shy to tell your therapist to tone it down if it’s getting too much for you. I personally prefer light to medium strokes, although I understand that it might be hard to ‘reach’ certain muscles without applying more force.

At the end of the session I was served ginger tea, which helps to get rid of ‘wind’ in the body. All in all a relaxing session!

If you come on weekdays their rates are quite reasonable.

In my experience, massages in Malaysia (at least the legit ones) are more expensive compared to other Southeast Asian countries – I’ve paid much less for similar experiences in Bali, Bangkok, and even Manila (250 pesos for an hour of ‘hilot’ – about RM20 which to me is like wtf so cheap) but since this is the only available option here, I think it’s okay to splurge once in awhile.

AYU BORNEO

10, Jalan Puteri 1/1, Bandar Puteri, 47100 Puchong, Selangor

Opening hours: 11AM – 12AM

Phone: 03-3385 5515